The Holidays at the Disneyland Resort have officially arrived! Running now, though January 7ths (with a rare team up with the Disneyland 70th anniversary part of the way). I had a chance to attend an opening-day preview event, and trust me: this season is shaping up to be a Disney-fied festive celebration you won’t want to miss.

Disneyland Resort Holiday Celebration Highlights

One of the best parts of visiting during the holidays is seeing beloved characters in their seasonal outfits. This year, Mickey and Minnie, as well as some of their friends, debut new attire! I cannot get over how adorable Chip & Dale look in their gingerbread costumes! 

Over at Disney California Adventure’s ¡Viva Navidad!, the Three Caballeros bring the energy, and you’ll definitely want Goofy to show off those maraca shoes.

Holiday Ride Overlays You Can’t Miss

At the Disneyland Park, the Haunted Mansion returns as Jack Skellington once again and has taken over with his signature version of Nightmare Before Christmas Cheer. This year includes new surprises to keep the attraction feeling fresh.

Next, head to Fantasyland, where, just like the Haunted Mansion, Small World also gets a Holiday makeover! It’s a Small World Holiday transforms inside and out with dazzling lights, festive music, and global holiday magic. Then don’t miss the 5 pm lighting ceremony,  a glowing nighttime moment that truly captures the season.

Unfortunately, rainy weather meant cancellations of both A Christmas Fantasy Parade and Believe… In Holiday Magic Fireworks, but they remain top holiday entertainment offerings on clearer nights.

Holiday Fun at Disney California Adventure Park

Over at the California Adventure Park, Disney Festival of Holidays returns (albeit smaller than years past). The Sip and Savor pass is cheaper this year at $40, but now includes 6 items instead of 8. This may seem shocking at first, but once you learn that there are fewer Food Marketplaces and fewer options at each one, the change makes sense.

Beware of the bamboozling marketing, and make sure to look closely at your Marketplace Map. This year’s Marketplace Map lists both the official food booths and participating locations across the park, but not all of them accept the Sip and Savor Pass. Look closely to avoid any festival confusion.

Sadly, because of the rain, I wasn’t able to see the Mirabel’s Gifts of the always iconic Season or the Holiday Toy Drummers shows. But those are always some of my favorites when the weather cooperates.

And of course, no Holiday trip would be complete without visiting Santa Claus at Redwood Creek Challenge Trail!

So, whether you’re visiting for the dazzling décor, festive food, limited-time entertainment, or iconic holiday ride overlays, the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort continue to deliver a magical seasonal experience for guests of all ages.