Disneyland Holidays return November 13, 2026 through January 6, 2027 with Christmas decorations, seasonal entertainment, festive foods, attraction overlays and special celebrations throughout Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney and the Disneyland Resort Hotels.
This is your starting point for planning the happiest Disneyland holiday trip. I’ll help you navigate important dates, shows, seasonal food, Santa meet and greets, Christmas Day tips and everything else you need to know before you go.
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Quick Guide: Disneyland Holidays 2026
- Dates: November 13, 2026 through early January 6, 2027.
- Locations: Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney and the Disneyland Resort Hotels.
- Included with Admission: Holiday decorations, attraction overlays, parades, fireworks and seasonal entertainment are included with regular theme park admission and a valid park reservation.
- Top Tips: Book dining early for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s travel dates, make time for Disney Festival of Holidays at California Adventure, and use my complete Disneyland Holiday Season Guide for full planning details.
When do Disneyland Holidays start in 2026?
Disneyland Holidays begin November 13, 2026 and continue through January 6, 2027.
Is Disneyland decorated for Christmas at Thanksgiving?
Yes. Disneyland’s holiday season begins before Thanksgiving, so the parks are already decorated for Christmas by Thanksgiving week.
Do I need a separate ticket for Disneyland holiday events?
No, Disneyland holiday decorations, attraction overlays, parades, fireworks and seasonal entertainment are included with regular theme park admission and a valid park reservation. Some special dining experiences, tours and seasonal food cost extra.
What is Disney Festival of Holidays?
Disney Festival of Holidays is a seasonal celebration at Disney California Adventure featuring holiday food, live entertainment and cultural traditions. It runs during the Disneyland holiday season and is included with park admission (food and drink purchases are additional cost).
Can I meet Santa at Disneyland?
Yes. Santa appears at select locations around Disneyland Resort during the holiday season. Locations and schedules can change each year, so check my Disneyland Santa guide for current details.
Is Disneyland open on Christmas Day?
Yes. Disneyland Resort is open on Christmas Day. If you’re visiting December 24 or 25, use my Christmas Day at Disneyland guide for crowd, dining and arrival tips.
Does it snow at Disneyland during the holidays?
Disneyland uses a seasonal snow effect in select areas during holiday nighttime entertainment. My Disneyland snow guide explains where and when to see it.
Disneyland Holiday Ride Overlays & Attractions
| Attraction | Park | What Changes | Lightning Lane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haunted Mansion Holiday | Disneyland | The attraction transforms with The Nightmare Before Christmas characters, décor and seasonal details. | Lightning Lane Multi Pass |
| “it’s a small world” Holiday | Disneyland | Seasonal décor, holiday music and thousands of lights transform the attraction inside and out. | Lightning Lane Multi Pass |
| Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl | Disney California Adventure | Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters gets a holiday makeover with festive décor and seasonal music. | Stand by |
| Mater’s Jingle Jamboree | Disney California Adventure | Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree gets holiday décor and Christmas-themed music. | Stand by |