If you’ve never experienced Disneyland during the holidays…you are in for something truly special! There’s something magical about walking down Main Street, U.S.A., with holiday music playing, sparkling lights everywhere you look, and the scent of fresh gingerbread and peppermint treats filling the air. Whether it’s your first visit or a family tradition, the holiday season at Disneyland Resort has a way of making you feel like a kid again.

This year’s celebration runs from November 13, 2026, through January 6, 2027, and it’s one of the most popular times of year to visit. From festive ride overlays and dazzling entertainment to incredible food and beautiful decorations, there’s so much to experience.

Here are some of the holiday highlights you won’t want to miss!

Main Street, U.S.A. Shines Even Brighter

Your holiday adventure begins the moment you enter Disneyland! Main Street is transformed with sparkling lights, festive wreaths, garland, and one of the most beautiful Christmas trees you’ll ever see. Add in the classic holiday music playing throughout the park, and it’s impossible not to get into the holiday spirit.

“it’s a small world” Holiday

This is one of those attractions that people look forward to all year. The classic ride is completely transformed into a holiday celebration featuring festive decorations, colorful lights, and seasonal music inspired by traditions from around the world. Even the exterior becomes a breathtaking display once the sun goes down.

Haunted Mansion Holiday

If you’re a fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas, this attraction is a must!

Jack Skellington and his friends give Haunted Mansion a holiday makeover that’s equal parts spooky and festive. It’s become such a beloved tradition that many guests plan their trip specifically to experience this seasonal version of the attraction.

Holiday Entertainment You’ll Remember Long After Your Trip

Disney always knows how to make the holidays feel extra magical.

One of our favorite traditions is watching A Christmas Fantasy Parade as Disney characters, toy soldiers, gingerbread cookies, and Santa Claus make their way down Main Street.

Then, once the sun sets, there’s nothing quite like watching Believe… in Holiday Magic, where fireworks, music, castle projections, and even magical snowfall create one of the most unforgettable endings to a Disneyland day.

Even if fireworks aren’t offered that evening, don’t miss Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty Castle. Watching the castle sparkle as it’s illuminated for the night is a beautiful holiday tradition in its own right.

Cars Land Is a Holiday Favorite

If you’ve visited Cars Land before, just wait until you see it during the holidays! Radiator Springs gets a festive makeover with fun decorations, holiday music, and seasonal versions of Luigi’s and Mater’s attractions. The attention to detail here is incredible, and it quickly becomes one of the most photographed spots in Disney California Adventure.

Disney Festival of Holidays

If your family loves trying new foods, this is something you’ll definitely want to add to your plans.

Disney California Adventure celebrates the season with food marketplaces featuring holiday-inspired dishes, festive desserts, specialty beverages, and flavors inspired by different cultures and traditions. You’ll also find live entertainment throughout the park, making it easy to spend hours exploring everything the festival has to offer.

Holiday Treats Around Every Corner

One of our favorite parts of visiting Disneyland during the holidays is discovering all the seasonal treats.

From peppermint desserts and festive churros to holiday cookies and specialty drinks, there always seems to be something new to try. If you’re anything like us, you’ll probably leave with a list of favorites you can’t wait to come back for next year.

Don’t Forget the Holiday Shopping

Whether you’re looking for the perfect ornament, festive Minnie ears, or a cozy Spirit Jersey, the holiday merchandise is always fun to browse. Many seasonal items are only available for a limited time, so if you see something you love, don’t wait too long to grab it!

Why Planning Ahead Makes Such a Difference

The holidays are one of the busiest and most magical times of the year at Disneyland Resort. That also means hotels, dining reservations, and popular travel dates can fill up faster than many people expect.

One of the biggest mistakes we see is families waiting until the last minute to start planning. By then, the best hotel options may be gone, dining reservations can be harder to get, and it becomes much more difficult to build the vacation you were hoping for.