Disneyland in October means fall break! I call October the new summer break. Expect larger crowds as guests flock from nearby states and some within California as well.
In October Disneyland Park opens 8 or 9 am and closes at 10, 11 pm or midnight. California Adventure Park opens at 8 or 9 am and closes at 9 or 10 pm on regular nights, but closes at 6 pm on nights featuring Oogie Boogie Bash.
Keep reading for all the basics and an in depth guide for Disneyland in October 2024. Or look back at September if your visit covers both months.
This article covers important calendar events and closures in October and analyzes how these events might affect crowds levels. I talk about dressing for the Anaheim weather in October and list discount tickets available for this month.
Disneyland in October Calendar of Events
It’s the season when summer temperatures and Halloween collides! Fall Break at Disneyland is a huge hit and in 2024, there’s lots of great hotel availability and ticket offers. Here’s how to navigate all the fun you’re about to have at Disneyland.
Disneyland in October Hours:
- Disneyland Park opens at 8:00 am or 9:00 am and closes at 10:00 pm 11:00 pm or midnight.
- California Adventure Park opens at 8:00 am or 9:00 am and closes at 9:00 pm or 10:00 pm on regular nights, but closes at 6:00 pm on nights featuring Oogie Boogie Bash.
- 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.
October Events and Important Dates:
- Halloween Time is here, including fireworks and projection show “Halloween Screams” at Disneyland park on select nights. It’s one of the best times of year to visit Disneyland Resort with characters in Halloween costumes and so many delicious treats to try!
- Monthly closures and refurbishments can be found here
Disneyland October Crowd Levels
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. In 2024 there’s a lot happening with the new area of Bayou Country open but still waiting on Tiana’s. We’ve got Haunted Mansion open, but only Virtual Queue option to ride.
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 Park Plans—step by step ride guides with optimal wait times and more.
If you’re super concerned about crowds I suggest you skip:
- Mid October when most Fall Breaks happen
- Oogie Boogie Bash nights at Disneyland Park since people without tickets will flock to Disneyland
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.