7 Reasons Why We Loved Disneyland At Christmas Time

We did our first ever trip to Disneyland last December, well it was my first time and our oldest daughter’s, my husband had been when he was a child. It was absolutely incredible to go both for our first visit to Disneyland, and because it was Christmas time. After that visit, goodness, after just walking down Main Street and going on our first ride I understood why so many love Disneyland so much. I want to share with all of you some of our top reasons for why we loved Disneyland at Christmas time so much.

1) The Spectacular Decorations. Disneyland was absolutely magical. Everywhere you looked there was different holiday decor all about. Wreaths, ornaments, Christmas trees, and twinkling lights everywhere. Disneyland sure knows how to do decorations right. I left inspired with ideas for how I want decorate my own home over Christmas time. Disneyland looks wonderful during the day, but it’s even more magical at night time. 

2) Hustle and Bustle. The park was a bit crowded at certain times, but this was perfect if you are a fan of just sitting back and people watching. What better time than the holiday season, and really there is no better place. You’ll see people of all ages dressed up as their favourite Disney character. There are ugly Christmas sweaters to be seen. You also just never know which Disney Character may walk past. Plus, it was just nice to stop, sit, and relax a bit to take it all in. You can easily find yourself taken into the “go, go, go” environment that tends to happen. My advice is to sit on a bench on Main Street, and just observe. You wont miss out on the hustle and bustle that you would normally experience in the mall back home. 

3) Special Treats and Food. Many of the places to eat have different holiday meals, and treats. We enjoyed a traditional Christmas turkey dinner while in the park! There is peppermint ice cream to be enjoyed, and rice krispie treats done up to look like Mickey Mouse with a Santa hat on. There is one very special item that I knew I wanted to try and get. You have to arrive early, and get a wrist band first thing upon entering the park if you have your heart set on getting a hand pulled candy cane that is made in the park. I saved this to bring home with me. 

4) Entertainment. The different shows, parades, light displays, and fireworks all take on a Christmas theme. It is incredible to see, and you will not want to miss any of them. Be prepared to stay up late to enjoy them. Especially the fireworks display over the castle. The fireworks display had a lot of special moments. 

5) Themed Rides. If you have ever watch The Nightmare Before Christmas, you’ll want to check out the Haunted Mansion. The Jungle Cruise, becomes the Jingle Cruise where you may find that a shipment of Christmas decorations has been lost, but the decorations have been found by the jungle animals. My absolute favourite was It’s a Small World. You do not want to miss seeing it all lit-up at night time, covered in its thousands, upon thousands of vibrant lights. It’s a great photo opportunity. When inside on this ride, you are treated to a different song.

6) Characters in Holiday Outfits. Growing up I loved watching the different Disney holiday specials that would be on TV. I have many memories of seeing Mickey and Minnie dressed up in Christmas themed outfits, red sweaters with white trim, covered in giant snowflakes… this I wanted to see in person. It was on the top of my list to get photos with Disney characters dressed in their special holiday outfits. 

7) The Castle. There was one iconic image I knew I wanted to see with my own eyes, the castle at night covered in all its twinkling white lights. It was incredible seeing the Sleeping Beauty’s castle lighting. The castle, to me, is the heart of Disneyland from here you head out to many different areas of the park. One thing is for sure, you’ll want a photo in front of the castle. It looks incredible both during the daytime and at night.