Disneyland in May brings spring break vibes and graduation celebrations! Plus, fan favorite, Fantasmic returns— keep reading for all the basics and an in depth guide for Disneyland in May 2024.
This article covers important calendar events and closures in May, how these events might affect crowds levels, dressing for the Anaheim weather in May and discount tickets available for the month.
Disneyland in May Calendar of Events
Are you ready to live it up at Disneyland this May? It’s a wonderful time to visit even during Spring Break and Grad Night season I’m here to share how to navigate all the fun you’re about to have at Disneyland.
Disneyland in May Hours:
- Disneyland Park Monday through Thursday opens 8:00 or 9:00 am and closes at 10:00 , 11:00 pm or midnight. Friday through Sunday opens at 8:00 or 9:00 am and closes at 11:00 pm or midnight.
- California Adventure Park Monday through Thursday opens 8:00 or 9:00 am and closes at 8:00, 9:00 or 10:00 pm. Friday through Sunday opens at 8:00 or 9:00 am and closes at 8:00, 9:00 or 10:00 pm.
- Park hopping begins at 11:00 am for those with valid tickets and reservations.
- Early Entry is now on a daily rotation, see the schedule here.
May Events and Important Dates
- Magic Happens, my favorite day time parade is now showing daily
- Pixar Fest is in full swing with an all new parade, fireworks and more
- Season of the Force returns, along with special After Dark Events
- And don’t forget Grad Nites
- Fantasmic returns after a long refurbishment and reimagineering
- Monthly closures and refurbishments can be found here
May Crowds at Disneyland
Crowds are a common concern for Disneyland guests—it’s tricky to navigate finding the best days with longer park hours, more open rides, a full entertainment schedule and low crowds.
I always say go when it works best for you, then I can help you work out the logistics like what rides to go on and when. It’s the main reason I created Disneyland Plans—step by step ride guides with optimal wait times and more.
If you’re super concerned about crowds I suggest you skip:
- May 4th, the most popular date of all the Season of the Force dates which is huge for Star Wars fans
- The first few nights of Fantasmic (returns May 24th)
- Be aware of dates close to the expiration of the SoCal tickets which end June 2 and people will be looking to use those last days up
We might see lower crowds on these dates:
Anything is possible, and when it comes to crowds it’s highly likely that even our best time guesses could miss the mark. However, I think these dates might be a good choice.
- Daytime before any After Dark events tend to be a bit lighter on crowds, so don’t let the “early” closing time deter you, it can actually be a smart choice
- Weekends in May for lower crowds because most Spring Break visits like to take advantage of weekdays (except Memorial Day weekend)
Add this info to any Disneyland crowd calendars you might see (they’re not my favorite) and plan accordingly.
Disneyland in May also opens up official swimming season! Now, most hotels here in Anaheim have heated pools that are open year-round. But if you need the warmer weather to start your tan, I suggest a stay and a full day at The Disneyland Hotel pool.
Dressing for May Weather
My usual packing for Disneyland includes at the very least a hoodie, even sometimes in full summer heat I reach for that hoodie at night. Layers are key and getting a locker can really help.
- Lightweight joggers or pants with flexibility are nice for spring days
- T shirts in long or short sleeve so you can roll them up if the temps rise
May Disneyland Discounts
2024 is the year for Disneyland discounts—Disney wants you to come for a vacation so there are a few options and discounts to help you visit Disneyland cheaper!
Southern California Ticket LAST CHANCE! Offer good for visits January 2 through June 2, 2024.
Extra Day Free gives you 5 days for the price of 4, it’s an ongoing special you can find listed with my partners at Get Away Today here.
Add Universal Studios Hollywood or other area theme parks tickets for under $100 per person.
Do you have more questions about your Disneyland visit this time of year? Or maybe you’re considering another month for your visit—find the yearly Disneyland calendar here. Plus, download your step by step Disneyland Plan now or submit a request for a one on one planning help.
