Disneyland and Anaheim news. Short pieces for Disney news fanatics. Updated regularly and linking back to my personal reviews and recommendations from The Happiest Blog on Earth.
Black Friday Kicks Off for Disney Fans on Both Coasts
Published November 1, 2024. Holidays at Disney Parks is on the horizon but savvy Disney fans are already looking forward Disney Black Friday sales. Today kicks off nearly a month long of Black Friday deals offering Adults at Kids’ Prices on select theme park tickets. Beginning November 1 and running through December 4, 2024, this limited-time sale features discounted tickets for Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood in California, as well as Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort in Florida.
Here’s what’s available for Black Friday, all month long:
California:
- Disneyland Resort: Adults at Kids’ Prices on 3-day and longer tickets
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Adults at Kids’ Prices pricing on all ticket types
Florida:
- Walt Disney World Resort: Adults at Kids’ Prices on 3-day and longer tickets
- Universal Orlando Resort: Adults at Kids’ Prices on 2-day and longer tickets
This sale is ideal for families planning holiday trips or early 2025 vacations. Offering substantial savings, it’s also the perfect opportunity to gift a memorable getaway.
When It Starts: The sale officially opens on November 1, 2024. All discounted prices will be available online from our partners at Get Away Today. You can also call 855 GET AWAY and mention “The Happiest Blog on Earth” to apply all available discounts.
Kids Ride Free on ART for the Holidays
Published November 4, 2024. Families visiting Anaheim this holiday season have something extra to celebrate—kids ages 9 and under can now ride the ART Bus for free when accompanied by a paying adult. This special promotion runs from November 1–15 and again from December 1–15, 2024, giving visitors even more incentive to explore Anaheim’s best attractions, including Disneyland Resort.
The Kids Ride Free offer is perfectly timed for holiday trips, making it easier than ever for families to enjoy Anaheim’s festive atmosphere. The ART Bus (Anaheim Resort Transportation) system makes navigating the area stress-free, with regular routes to Disneyland, shopping destinations, hotels, and more.
$300 For Instant Lightning Lane Access
Published October 16, 2024. Disneyland will officially launch a new Lightning Lane Tier on Wednesday, October 23. Lightning Lane Premier Pass will be the theme park’s most expensive “skip the wait” option below a VIP Tour. Adding to the line up of Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass, the new Premier Pass bundles the two.
Guests who purchase Lightning Lane Premier Pass can expect to pay $300-400 per person to access every Lightning Lane queue in Disneyland and California Adventure Park without waiting for a return time. The current, lower versions of Lightning Lane are subject to time restrictions and return times. The Premier Pass will allow guests to move quickly from one ride to the next while using the Lightning Lane queue and leave scheduling on the Disneyland app behind.
This limited option will be available for guests to purchase up to two days before their park reservation. Lightning Lane Premier Pass will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis with limited availability, via the Disneyland App. Theme park tickets and valid reservations are required.
Kids’ Ticket Deal Returns for Early 2025
Published October 7, 2024. Starting in early 2025, families can take advantage of a limited-time offer allowing children ages 3-9 to visit Disneyland Resort for as low as $50 with a 1-Day, 1-Park ticket.
Tickets go on sale October 22, 2024, and are valid for visits between January 7 and March 20, 2025. You can also choose from 1-Day, 2-Day, or 3-Day ticket options, with upgrades available for Park Hopper tickets and Lightning Lane Multi Passes.
Adults can also find savings every day with my partners at Get Away Today. Disney also announced that Disney+ subscribers will get a special priced multi-day ticket offer for U.S. and Canadian subscribers later this fall, valid for select days through the 2024 holiday season.
Gingerbread Workshop and Santa at Downtown Disney
Published October 7, 2024. A cherished holiday tradition is making its festive return to the Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio at the Downtown Disney District this December. Kids and families are invited to join in the fun and creativity of building and decorating gingerbread houses, a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit.
Workshops will feature a special guest from the North Pole—Santa himself! Attendees will enjoy Jazz Kitchen’s famous hot chocolate, mini dessert plates, and a complimentary digital photo with Santa, all while crafting their custom gingerbread masterpieces.
Dates and Ticket Information:
- Sunday, December 8 | 12-2 PM
- Saturday, December 14 | 12-2 PM
- Sunday, December 15 | 12-2 PM
- Tickets go live on November 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM PST
This event is $35 per person and required purchase of at least one Gingerbread House Kit at $56 per house.
Guests can also enjoy priority lunch reservations at the Jazz Kitchen before or after the event. Don’t miss this festive, family-friendly experience! For more information or to book, visit Jazz Kitchen’s website or call (714) 563-7261.
Disneyland Shares New Holiday Experiences for 2024 Season
Published August 29, 2024. As the holiday season approaches, Disneyland Resort is gearing up to bring festive joy to guests with an array of exciting new experiences and beloved traditions, promising a magical celebration from the parks to the hotels. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store this year.
Santa Claus and Holiday Magic at Fantasyland Theatre
This season, Disneyland’s Fantasyland Theatre will be a bustling center of holiday cheer as Santa Claus and favorite Disney characters meet and greet with guests. There will also be cookie decorating, crafting activities, storytelling, and atmospheric music, making it the perfect spot to soak in the holiday magic.
Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail Debuts at Downtown Disney District
From November 22, 2024, to January 1, 2025, Downtown Disney District will introduce Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail, a brand-new holiday adventure. Guests can embark on a delightful hunt for hidden ornaments nestled among the twinkling holiday trees and lights throughout the district, adding an extra layer of fun to the holiday shopping experience.
Activity maps will be available for purchase at select locations in Downtown Disney and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. These maps can be redeemed for a collectible holiday keepsake at World of Disney or Disney’s Pin Traders, adding a perfect souvenir to remember the holidays.
Holiday Character Dining at Disneyland Resort
Starting November 19, holiday dining at Disneyland Resort takes on new dimensions with festive offerings at the hotels. “Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!” at Disneyland Hotel will serve up joyful holiday meals, while, for the first time, Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will host Mickey’s Holiday Pajama Party breakfast and brunch. Guests can enjoy holiday-themed menus in beautifully decorated settings, with select characters making appearances in brand-new holiday pajamas.
Festive Street Performances at Paradise Gardens Park
When the lively Disney ¡Viva Navidad! street party isn’t on the schedule, guests visiting the entrance to Paradise Gardens Park will still be in for a treat. They might encounter Mirabel from Disney’s “Encanto” or Miguel from Pixar’s “Coco” in special holiday street performances that celebrate the joy of family and the festive season, bringing a touch of magic to the area.
With these new and exciting offerings, the 2024 holiday season at Disneyland Resort is set to be a celebration filled with unforgettable experiences for all ages. Don’t miss out on the magic!
Disneyland Resort Unveils Exciting New Attractions and Experiences
Published August 12, 2024. Disneyland Resort has announced a thrilling lineup of new attractions and experiences that promise to captivate guests in the coming years. From groundbreaking Audio-Animatronics to expansions in beloved lands, here’s what’s on the horizon for Disney fans.
Walt Disney Comes to Life in a New Show at Disneyland Park
For the first time ever, Walt Disney himself will be immortalized as an Audio-Animatronics figure in a brand-new show titled “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” Debuting in 2025 at the Main Street Opera House in Disneyland Park, this show will offer a heartfelt look at the life and legacy of the man behind the magic. After its debut, the show will play in rotation with the classic “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.” This marks a historic moment for Disney as they bring their founder to life in such a dynamic way.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens November 15, 2024
Disneyland Resort will kick off the 2024 holiday season with the much-anticipated opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure on November 15. This new attraction, set in the newly renamed Bayou Country (formerly Critter Country), invites guests to join Princess Tiana on a magical journey inspired by the film “The Princess and the Frog.”
In addition, The Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree is coming to town! Fans of the Country Bears and barbecue are in for a treat as this space is soon transformed at Disneyland Park. This new dining experience promises to combine delicious barbecue with lively entertainment, making it a perfect spot for families and friends to gather for a hearty meal and some classic Disney fun.
Updates to Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Fans of The Mandalorian have even more reason to celebrate as Mando and Grogu embark on new adventures at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Soon guests can join this iconic duo on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in a fresh storyline celebrating the upcoming film “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” set to hit theaters in 2026. This addition promises to deepen the immersive experience at Galaxy’s Edge, offering new thrills and adventures for Star Wars enthusiasts.
Pandora at Disney California Adventure
Disney California Adventure is set to expand its offerings with an all-new section of Pandora, inspired by “Avatar: The Way of Water” and future films in the franchise. Currently there is no time set for debut or construction—this new area will allow guests to dive deeper into the breathtaking world of Pandora, where they can experience the beauty and wonder of this alien landscape. Whether soaring on the back of a banshee or exploring the mystical waters, visitors will be transported to a world beyond imagination.
Avengers Campus Expansion
Superhero fans will soon have even more reasons to visit Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure, as the campus is set to double in size with two new attractions: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. These additions will offer guests new ways to interact with their favorite heroes as they help save the world.
New Pixar’s Coco Attraction
In a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of family and tradition, Disney California Adventure will soon welcome a new attraction based on Pixar’s “Coco.” Beginning construction in 2026, this ride will invite guests to journey to the Land of the Dead alongside Miguel and his skeletal family. With vibrant colors, lively music, and a touching story, this attraction is sure to become a beloved addition to the park.
A Bright Future Ahead
With these exciting developments, Disneyland Resort continues to push the boundaries of theme park entertainment. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney magic, thrilling adventures, or immersive storytelling, there’s something for everyone to look forward to in the coming years. Stay tuned for more updates as Disneyland Resort continues to bring magic to life in new and innovative ways and The Happiest Blog on Earth is here for every bit of nostalgia and new magic headed your way.
Disneyland Cast Members Strike: Dates to Know
Published July 10, 2024. Disneyland Resort Cast Members are currently under contract negotiations with a strike authorization vote scheduled for next week.
Cast Members have been negotiating key elements in their contracts such as wage increases and safety improvements. The potential strike could affect up to 14,000 Cast Members during peak summer attendance.
If you’re traveling to Disneyland Resort this summer, here are dates to know:
- April 2024 Contract negotiations begin
- May 2024 Union representatives filed unfair labor practice charges
- June 16, 2024 Disneyland Park Cast Members contract expired
- July 20, 2024 Union voting results for strike authorization expected
- July 22, 2024 Upcoming meeting for contract negotiations — UPDATED CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS AGREEMENT MADE
- September 30, 2024 California Adventure Park and Downtown Disney Cast Members contract expires
The negotiations are taking place between between Disneyland Resort and Master Services Council. Master Services Council represents Cast Members in the following departments and roles:
- Attractions
- Candy Makers
- Costuming
- Custodial
- Main Entrance
- Parking, Resort Transportation
- Store Operations
- Team Centers
- Anaheim Distribution Center
The last major strike to affect Disneyland Resort was in 1984 in which nearly 2,000 Cast Members participated. OC Weekly reported, “When time came to walk off the job on Sept. 25, 1984, each union set up its own picket line at strategic points surrounding the park.”
The strike lasted 22 days and concluded on October 16, 1984 while rides and operations were temporarily run by other departments.
D23 Sweepstakes Kicks Off with 20+ Worldwide Prizes
Published July 8, 2024. Disney has just announced “D23: The Ultimate Disney Sweepstakes – FANtastic Prizes”, kicking off the countdown to The Ultimate Disney Fan Event happening next month in Anaheim. As announced on ABC’s Good Morning America, the sweepstakes features a lineup of extraordinary prizes exclusively for D23 Members.
Headline Prizes:
- 21 Royal Dining Experience: Enjoy a private, exclusive dining experience for up to 12 guests inside Disneyland Park.
- New York ABC Shows Experience: Go behind the scenes with a tour of Good Morning America and attend live tapings of Live with Kelly and Mark and The View.
- Aulani Resort Adventure: Win a four-night stay for four at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawai‘i, complete with airfare and a $500 Disney Gift Card.
- VIP Dancing with the Stars: Attend a live taping of Dancing with the Stars’ “Disney Night” in Los Angeles with a guest.
- Disney on Broadway NYC Trip: Experience The Lion King and Aladdin on Broadway, with a backstage tour and more.
- Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure Maiden Voyage: Embark on the Maiden Voyage of Disney Treasure with up to four guests.
- Plus many more prizes
The sweepstakes is open to D23 Members until August 11, 2024. For more details and to enter, visit fantasticprizes.d23.com.
Disneyland Drops Genie+ Service Name
Published June 26, 2024. Tell us you made a rebrand mistake without telling us you made a rebrand mistake. That’s what many Disney fans are saying following news that the Disney Genie+ name will be retired next month at Disneyland Resort. Starting July 24, 2024 Disneyland Resort will implement new names to ease confusion among park-goers.
The Disney Genie+ service will be rebranded as the Lightning Lane Multi Pass, while the individual Lightning Lane will become known as the Lightning Lane Single Pass.
For Disneyland Resort guests, it’s a fairly simple change. Guests will still use and purchase Lightning Lanes the same way they had before. Omitting the term “Disney Genie+” makes terminology clear and streamlined.
Now there is no need to explain that Disney Genie+ is the software system that allows guests to access Lightning Lanes. Lightning Lane now refers to the software system and queue for entry.
At Walt Disney World, the options are much more detailed and complex. If you’re visiting Disneyland Resort, do no be confused. At Disneyland Resort you will not be able to book any type of Lightning Lanes prior to your arrival in the theme park. For more detailed information on purchasing, selecting, and using Lightning Lane passes, read our Simple Guide to Disneyland’s Lightning Lane.
Are Disneyland Entertainment Cuts Fueled by Union Negotiations?
Published June 11, 2024. In recent weeks, Disneyland guests have observed notable cuts to the entertainment schedule.
Most prominently, the live DJs and dancers at Club Pixar during Pixar Fest and the “Dr. Strange: Mysteries of the Mystic Art” show, a staple since the opening of Avengers Campus in 2021, have been eliminated. The Dr. Strange show will conclude on June 30, though the character will still be available for meet and greets in the area.
Additionally, while Club Pixar’s live performances are ending, fans can look forward to meeting new characters from Inside Out 2 at Pixar Pier later this month.
While it is common for Disneyland Resort to remove less popular entertainment options, the timing of these changes has sparked speculation. The recent cuts coincide with ongoing contract negotiations involving Disneyland performers’ new union, “Magic United,” formed under the Actors’ Equity Association. As parade, character, and other entertainment performers negotiate their contracts, questions arise about whether these entertainment cuts are a strategic response to the union’s formation.
Fans wonder—what will further entertainment cuts do to beloved character meet and greets and parades like Magic Happens? Is Disneyland truly as magical if Mickey Mouse is on strike?
Temporary Land Closure Begins July 9th
Published May 30, 2024. As Disneyland Park nears the completion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Critter Country and other area attractions will close on July 9, 2024. For the foreseeable future, Critter Country dining, pathways and attractions will be closed including:
- Davey Crockett’s Explorer Canoes
- Hungry Bear Restaurant
- Pathway into the west side of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Fantasyland and Frontierland entrances remain open)
- Restrooms at Hungry Bear Restaurant
- Popcorn and Churro Carts in Critter Country
These closures are in addition to the previous closures of Splash Mountain during it’s retheme to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Pooh Corner and The Briar Patch.
Haunted Mansion also remains closed in nearby New Orleans Square with no anticipated opening date.
DisneylandForward gets the Green Light
Published May 8, 2024. Three years of collaborative efforts between Disneyland Resort, Anaheim City and community neighbors has resulted in a final nod of approval for the DisneylandForward initiative.
This decision pens the pages of the next chapter of the Disneyland Resort. To start, the massive $1.9 billion investment (entirely funded by the Walt Disney Company) is expected to be a significant economic driver for Anaheim.
The project is projected to take at least 10 years and generate increased revenues of about $15 million annually for the city from each $1 billion invested, supporting essential community services.
Disneyland Resort is putting Anaheim residents at the forefront by investing in various initiatives like affordable housing, city parks, traffic improvements, and workforce development programs.
In the theme parks and resort-wide, guests can look forward to more immersive experiences like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, further shopping and entertainment options and more. Expansion options are open to tell the stories of favorite Disney franchises like Frozen, Tangled and classics like Mary Poppins. DisneylandForward opens the gates for future lands and worlds of experiences.
DisneylandForward will also make in impact on job creation with over 4,500 operational jobs anticipated at Disneyland Resort, along with nearly 9,000 construction jobs within the first 10 years.
Disneyland Resort President, Ken Potrock adds, “I’m grateful the city council agrees and voted to work with us on this legacy project that will set up Disneyland Resort and the City of Anaheim for an incredibly bright future.”
For more information on how DisneylandForward will affect your future visit, keep an eye on The Happiest Blog on Earth annual and monthly guides to Disneyland Resort.
Oogie Boogie Bash Party Dates Announced
Published May 6, 2024. Disneyland revealed dates for the annual Halloween Party—Oogie Boogie Bash. After hours parties will be hosted on select nights in August, September and October in California Adventure Park.
Ticket prices range from $134 to $189 and will go on sale at a later date.
The 2024 Halloween Season begins earlier than ever and kicks off in late August. As such, Oogie Boogie Bash will run more nights than ever since debuting in 2019.
Tickets often sell out almost immediately after going on sale and guests report significant online waits for a chance to purchase tickets.
Oogie Boogie Bash is covered in detail here, along with entrance times, special entertainment options avaialble only to party guests, costumes, trick or treat trails and more.
Summer Disneyland Ticket Offer Unveiled
Published May 2, 2024. Excited to plan your summer vacay? Well, hold onto your Mickey ears because we’ve got some thrilling news for you! Get ready to embark on a magical adventure at Disneyland Resort without breaking the bank, thanks to an exclusive 3-Day Disneyland Ticket Offer set to launch soon.
Starting May 29, 2024, Disneyland enthusiasts can snag a steal of a deal with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket, available for visits from June 10 through September 26, 2024.
And here’s the kicker – for as little as $50 per child (ages 3-9) and $83 per adult, per day, you and your crew can immerse yourselves in the wonder of Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park on weekdays (Monday – Thursday).
These value-packed tickets aren’t just a one-time deal! With the flexibility to spread out your visits over separate dates during the season, you can enjoy the magic of Disneyland on your own terms. Plus, upgrades are available including weekend visits, Park Hopper tickets for added park-hopping fun, or even adding the Disney Genie+ service for enhanced convenience and enjoyment.
And the savings don’t stop there! Dive deeper into a summer to remember with special hotel offers designed to make your Disneyland Resort experience even more unforgettable.
With multi-day visits, you’ll have ample time to explore everything the resort has to offer, from the return of Pixar Fest to the mesmerizing “Fantasmic!” show and the eagerly anticipated Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia festivities.
But that’s not all –for guests seeking to extend the magic, special savings await at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. From the Craftsman-style elegance of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to the enchanting nostalgia of the Disneyland Hotel, there’s a perfect retreat for every taste and preference.
As summer beckons and the magic of Disneyland Resort awaits, it’s time to rediscover old favorites and create wonderful new memories. Don’t miss out on the summer of a lifetime – come join the celebration and let the magic begin!
Tourism Month Spotlight: Hilton Anaheim
Published May 2, 2024. As the tourism spotlight shines brightly on California and Disneyland Resort this May, we are featuring Hilton Anaheim, located right by the Anaheim Convention Center and of course, just moments away from the enchantment of Disneyland Resort.
Positioned as Orange County’s largest hotel, the Hilton Anaheim enjoys prime proximity to a host of iconic attractions including Disneyland, the Anaheim Convention Center, Angels Stadium, and the picturesque Orange County beaches.
With Disneyland less than a mile away, guests can anticipate easy access to the magic, whether by a leisurely stroll or a quick shuttle ride.
The hotel’s commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable stay extends far beyond its Convention Center location. From culinary delights to family-friendly amenities, the Hilton Anaheim ensures that every aspect of the guest experience is meticulously curated for maximum enjoyment.
Guests can start their day with kid and kid-at-heart favorites like Mickey Waffles at the MIX Restaurant. MIX serves a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day. Want something a little more grown up? The MIX Lounge beckons with an extensive selection of beer and wines, providing the perfect setting to unwind after a day of adventure.
Families are spoiled with the hotel’s expansive pool area, complete with a Kid’s Splash Zone and the Pool Bar & Grill, offering relaxation and recreation for guests of all ages.
Moreover, the Hilton Anaheim goes the extra mile to cater to young guests, with a variety of weekly activities including arts and crafts sessions and enchanting visits with beloved characters such as Ariel and Captain Hook.
Whether embarking on a magical Disney adventure or exploring the vibrant attractions of Orange County, the Hilton Anaheim serves as the perfect home base for unforgettable experiences. The Hilton Anaheim awaits your visit, ready to turn dreams into reality and create cherished memories that last a lifetime.