california disneyland tour

Disneyland Tours You Will Be Delighted You Took

Betsy Malloy Photography

A Disneyland tour is just the thing for anyone who loves Disneyland and Walt Disney. But many of the most ardent Disney-loving fans never heard of them. They aren't well advertised, and it's hard to find information about them even if you know they exist.

If you're a true Disneyland fan, you may find taking a Disneyland tour is just the thing to add your Disney Bucket List. If you're a first time visitor, you may not want to tie up several hours of your day on a tour, but that depends on how much you love Disney.

This guide covers all the ways you can go behind the scenes at Disneyland, to see how they make the magic and get some insider stories,

Some Disneyland tours are seasonal, and others may only be offered during busier times of the year. You can get current prices and find out which tours are available  at the Disneyland Tour web page .

How to Reserve a Disneyland Tour

To take a tour on your own, you must be at least 18 years old. A paying adult must accompany guests under 16 years old, and there may be height restrictions on some of the included attractions.

To take a tour, you'll first need to buy a ticket to get into the park. It must be valid for the day you take the tour. To avoid disappointment, reserve your tour as soon as you can bu no more than 30 days in advance.

The only way to reserve your tour is by calling 714-781-8687. Write down the confirmation number they give you because you won't get a confirmation email. You must pay when you reserve and the fee is not refundable.

When you get to Disneyland, go to the tour kiosk near City Hall. Give them your confirmation number and be prepared to show your ID. Or give them your name and show them the credit card you used to pay for your reservation. You will meet your tour guide in the same area.

These are the Disneyland tours you may be able to take. Except for the Adventures by Disney tour, they don't include much that's really behind the scenes, but you will learn a lot and see things from a different perspective. The souvenir pins are unique fun collectibles, too.

Walk in Walt's Footsteps Tour : Designed for the Disney-lover, this 3.5-hour, fact-and-trivia-filled tour explores how Walt Disney's vision became a reality. The tour also includes a delicious meal and a collectible souvenir.

VIP Tour : Ths experience is just what you might imagine, with priority access to attractions, reserved seating, and a personal coordinator. Before you look at the price, know that it covers up to 10 people.

Grand Circle Tour : Go behind the scenes to explore Walt Disney's love for trains and get a ride in the Disneyland Railroad’s special parlor car, the Lilly Belle.

Behind the Scenes at Disneyland and in Hollywood

This multi-day tour definitely belongs on your Disney Bucket List, if you're a hardcore fan.

Adventures by Disney runs guided tours all over the world, but not are quite like their Backstage Magic tour. It's a six-day, five-night ramble you'll never forget. It goes behind the scenes at Disney Studios, Disney Imagineering, and both California theme parks. And the most fun is that you get into places not open to the public, which may include Disney Imagineering and Disney Studios.

Seasonal Disneyland Tours

Check the Disneyland website for seasonal tours. They include: 

Disney's Happiest Haunts is a Halloween-themed tour that features some spooking sightings at Disneyland, spine-tingling tales. And of course - a collectible souvenir pin, which is redesigned every year.

Holiday Time at Disneyland tours are offered from mid-November through early January. They usually include a chance to explore all the holiday traditions and decorations. You also get express boarding for "it's a small world" Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday. And reserved seating for the Christmas parade. And to keep it fresh, they change parts of the tour every year.

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Disneyland Tips

Guided Tours at Disneyland (Updated for 2024!)

If you’re looking to enhance your visit to Disneyland Resort, I highly recommend adding a Guided Tour to your visit!

A Disneyland Guided Tour is a great way to learn more about Disneyland, and even see some areas that are usually off limits to Guests.

Right now, Disneyland Resort is offering three tours: Walt’s Main Street Story Tour, Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour, and Cultivating the Magic. There are also seasonal tours – Happiest Haunts Guided Tour and Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort.

Keep reading to learn more about these tours at Disneyland including what you can expect on the tour, how to book your tour, and what they cost.

All About Guided Tours at Disneyland Resort in California

Table of Contents

Walt’s Main Street Story Tour

According to the Disneyland website, on this tour Guests will “Experience Main Street, USA through Walt’s eyes while uncovering the history and secrets of this iconic thoroughfare.”

This is a 90-minute tour led by dedicated tour guide. Guests will also learn how Main Street, USA ties into Walt’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri. The tour is offered daily at various times between 9am and 5pm.

The tour ends with a visit to Walt’s apartment over the Disneyland Fire Station in Town Square, including refreshments and photos on the apartment’s patio – which has never been open to Guests before now. Guests will also receive complimentary PhotoPass downloads taken during their tour.

The cost of the tour is $160 +tax per Guest ( prices are subject to change at any time ). Theme park entry and reservation are also required. For more information, visit the Disneyland website .

*Note the popular long-running tour “Walk in Walt’s Footsteps” is no longer being offered.

Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour

Anyone fascinated by trains will love this tour! This 2-hour tour will cover Walt Disney’s love for trains and offer guests a rare glimpse of the Disneyland Park Roundhouse, a backstage area where train vehicles receive maintenance.

Another special perk of the Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour is a ride on the Lilly Belle, the special train car named after Lillian Disney. (Dependent on weather; the Lilly Belle is not air conditioned and will not run if it’s too hot.)

The start date and pricing for this tour has not been announced yet.

Cultivating the Magic Guided Tour

Learn all about the plants and flowers that play a part in the storytelling of Disneyland Park. The tour starts at the front entrance with the Mickey Floral display, and visits nearly every land in the park, culminating with a ride on the Jungle Cruise attraction. 

Happiest Haunts Guided Tour

If you enjoy all things spooky, this may be the best tour for you. 

This 2-hour walking tour through Disneyland Park gives a history of Halloween tales specific to Disney, expedited access to Pirates of the Caribbean, a photo op with the Hitchhiking Ghosts, a complimentary pin and treat, and reserved viewing area for Halloween Screams nighttime spectacular. 

This tour has not been announced yet for 2024. If the tour returns, tickets should go on sale during the summer.

Holiday Time at the Disneyland Resort Guided Tour

As you may already know, the winter holidays are a very special time to visit Disneyland. The Holiday Time tour gives Guests the opportunity to experience some of the holiday fun in a new way!

This is a 2.5 hour tour that is only offered during the Holidays at Disneyland Resort. 

Your tour guide will share fun facts and anecdotes about holiday decor and traditions, and includes a ride on “it’s a small world” Holiday and reserved viewing for A Christmas Fantasy parade. The website also promises Guests will receive “delicious holiday treats.”

This tour has not been announced yet for 2024. If the tour returns, tickets should go on sale during the late summer.

Disneyland Resort VIP Tours

If the standard guided tours do not interest you, perhaps you can create your own private tour! But you have to have deep pockets for it!

Any Guest can book their own personal Disneyland VIP Tour for a group of up to 10 people, for the cool price tag of $500 to $700 per hour, with a minimum of 7 hours. So doing the math, that’s $3500 to $4900 as a starting price. That may sound high (and it is!) but if you split the cost between 10 people, it makes the cost a bit more manageable. 

Personal VIP Tours get you a lot of perks. VIP Guests get expedited access to most attractions, so you don’t have to worry about spending most of your day in lines. You’ll also get reserved viewing for any parades, shows, and nighttime spectaculars (if they are included in your time frame). And before your visit, your VIP concierge will help you with any dining reservations you desire.

Be aware that separate theme park tickets and park reservations are required! Park admission or reservations are not included in the price of a VIP Tour.

To book a VIP Tour you can call (714) 300-7710 or email Disney Special Activities at [email protected] , or visit the Disneyland VIP Tour website for more information.

On the Day of Your Tour

• All tours start inside Disneyland, so make sure you choose Disneyland as your starting park if you have a park hopper ticket and your tour starts prior to 11am.
• At the designated time, go to the Disneyland Tour Gardens which is on the west side of the park, between City Hall and the entrance. You will need to give the host/hostess your name and your tour confirmation number. The person who booked the tour may also need to show their photo ID. You’ll be given further instructions once you check in.
• Your entire party needs to be present when checking in. Late arrivals may not be accommodated. 

Disneyland Tour Additional Information

• Most tours can be booked 30 days ahead of time. Same-day bookings may be available, but it’s best to book in advance if there’s a tour you really want to do during your visit!
• The theme park reservation system has made booking tours a little more difficult. Be sure you check for both theme park availability AND tour availability before booking anything! Note that park hopping is not allowed until 11am. 
• There are no tour discounts for Magic Key holders.
• Guests ages 2 and under do not need a tour reservation. 
• Guests under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the tour.
• There is a 24-hour cancellation policy for guided tours, and 48-hour cancellation policy for VIP tours. If you cancel after that time, you forfeit the entire cost.
• Tours are subject to cancellation for any reason. All offerings are subject to change.

Need Disneyland Park Tickets?

I highly recommend Undercover Tourist for the best prices on multi-day Disneyland tickets!

About Mindy

Mindy Marzec is a life-long Disney fan who grew up in Los Angeles. She started This Fairy Tale Life to share Disneyland travel tips for adults. When not at Disneyland, you can find Mindy at home snuggling with her cats and re-watching Thor: Ragnarok for the billionth time.

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Disneyland Special Events, Activities & Tours

LAST UPDATE: 6/27/24

Wondering what Disneyland special events may be happening during your visit to Disneyland Resort ? Listed below are the major Disneyland  events and festivals taking place during the year.

On this page you will also find any deals and discounts available on special activities  at Disneyland Resort, as well as how to save money on theme park tours .

• This is an UNOFFICIAL listing of Disneyland special events, tours and activities, and while we make our best effort to keep it updated, complete and accurate, Disney changes things constantly. Be sure to call ahead before making any major plans based on the information below!
• For recurring events (e.g. Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, Oogie Boogie Bash) we update new information as it becomes available, but we do not remove the previous year’s information until the new year’s information becomes available . We do this so that you can get a general idea of what has been offered in the past, and the range of dates when it was offered.
• Information on events that have already happened are colored gray. Once we get details about the next occurrence of that event, we update our information and change the text to black again.
• New! Special Events

Special Activities

Theme park tours, special events.

January-May Events

• New Year’s Day

Three Kings Day

Disneyland half marathon weekend, lunar new year (chinese new year), celebrate soulfully, disneyland after dark: sweethearts’ nite, valentine’s day, disney california adventure food & wine festival, disneyland after dark: disney channel nite, season of the force, disneyland after dark: star wars nite, mother’s day.

June-August Events

Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite

Independence day (july 4), choc walk in the park, halloween time at disneyland resort, oogie boogie bash – a disney halloween party at disney california adventure, día de los muertos, plaza de la familia.

September-December Events

Haunted Mansion Holiday

Disneyland halloween half marathon weekend, thanksgiving, holidays at disneyland resort (overview), festival of holidays at disney california adventure, disney ¡viva navidad, candlelight processional, christmas eve & christmas day.

• New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day

Disneyland stays open late on New Year’s Eve and offers extra entertainment, usually including live performances, an extra parade and fireworks. These festivities are included in regular park admission.

If you plan to visit one of the theme parks on New Year’s Eve (December 31) or New Year’s Day (January 1), be aware that these are two of the busiest days of the year. The parks (especially Disneyland) usually reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) to the parks after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Genie+ and buy paid Lightning Lane reservations right away, because the lines will be very long by noon and reservations will be gone quickly.

Disney hotels may offer a special dinner or party for New Year’s Eve, to find out go to the  Disneyland dining page .

In 2024, Three Kings Day was celebrated January 6.

January 6, Día de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany or the Twelfth Day of Christmas), is a popular holiday in Mexico. The holiday celebrates the arrival of the Magi bearing gifts for baby Jesus, and Día de los Reyes Magos is the traditional day for Mexican children to receive Christmas gifts

The celebration in Paradise Garden at Disney California Adventure includes entertainment, Disney characters in festive attire, kids’ activities and specialty food items. It is the grand finale of Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

In 2025, the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend will be held January 30 – February 2. Registration opened June 18, 2024.

The Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend includes a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and more. The Half Marathon route will go through Disneyland Resort and Anaheim, with Disney characters cheering you along the way. The weekend begins with an early morning yoga class in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. 

Disneyland Magic Key holders, Walt Disney World annual passholders, DVC members and Club runDisney members are able to register ahead of the general public for some runDisney events. Check the annual passholder or DVC member website for details closer to the public registration date.

• For more information or to register, go to the Disneyland Half Marathon page . Don’t wait too long to register; the races reach full capacity very quickly!

In 2024, Lunar New Year was celebrated January 23 – February 18.

The Lunar New Year celebration takes place at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure and includes traditions from Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures. In addition to the  Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession parade, there are performers, musicians, local artisans, kids’ activities and specialty food items. Disney characters are there as well, including Mulan, Mushu, Raya, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

Each night, before World of Color , the Lunar New Year Celebration culminates in a six-minute pre-show called Hurry Home , presented in water, animation and special effects on Paradise Bay. This story of a Little Lantern on its journey home to join its Lantern family to celebrate Lunar New Year features animated appearances by Mulan and Mushu in “dream sequences” inspired by traditional Chinese paper cut-out style animation. 

• More information can be found on the Disneyland Resort Lunar New Year page .

Celebrate Soulfully takes place during the month of February and highlights Black culture, stories and music. There will be special menu items available at restaurants in the theme parks and in Downtown Disney. In Disneyland Park, Queenie and the Jambalaya Jazz Band perform on the Rivers of America on select evenings. There are also Celebrate Gospel concerts in Disneyland Park at the Fantasyland Theater. 

In 2024, Celebrate Gospel was held on February 17 with Marvin Sapp; and on February 24 with Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Southern California community choirs performed on those dates as well. 

In 2024, Disneyland After Dark: Sweetheart’s Nite was held January 23, 25, 30; February 1, 6, 8, 12 and 14 at Disneyland Park.

Disneyland After Dark events take place after closing in either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure. Each Disneyland After Dark event requires a separate ticket. Select attractions will be open and there will be special entertainment, food, photo opportunities, collectible merchandise and more, all based on that evening’s theme. Attendees also receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party. There are a limited number of tickets for each event. 

While the party itself takes place after the park closes to the general public, Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite ticket holders can enter Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 pm, giving you up to 7 hours in the park. A theme park reservation is not required. 

For Sweethearts’ Nite there will be a Royal Cavalcade with Cinderella, Prince Charming and other characters go from Town Square all the way to “it’s a small world” mall, where regal Disney couples gather for the Royal Ball. Stitch and Angel will host a dance party at the stage in Tomorrowland. Special lighting and projections along with Disney love songs will create an atmosphere of romance, friendship and family throughout the park. There will be photo opportunities in romantic scenes from Disney films, along with themed décor, food and beverages.

Costumes are encouraged, but must follow the costume rules for this event. See the Disneyland After Dark: Sweetheart’s Nite page  for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

Select restaurants will have a Sweetheart’s Nite Dining Package , some are priced a la carte, some are fixed price; advance reservations are recommended. 

2024 Ticket Prices:

• $139 per person (age 3+) for January 23, 30; February 6
• $149 per person (age 3+) for January 25; February 1, 8
• $169 per person (age 3+) for February 12, 14

Limit 8 tickets per person. Each ticket is valid for admission to the event on the specified event date. Tickets are not valid for theme park admission prior to the hours of the event, except as noted above. Please note: Parking is not included with your ticket purchase.

• 2024 Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite tickets went on sale for Magic Key holders on December 12, 2023 and for everyone else on December 14, 2023.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Disneyland After Dark: Sweetheart’s Nite page . Please note: only a limited number of tickets go on sale for Magic Key holders on December 12. 

For Valentine’s Day (always on February 14), Disneyland does not generally have any special events or activities for Valentine’s Day. But many of the restaurants and food stands in the theme parks, Disney hotels and Downtown Disney will have specially themed items on their menus for some or all of February. 

For more Valentine’s Day suggestions, take a look at our tips and ideas for adding some romance to a Disneyland trip .

In 2025, Mardi Gras will be March 4.

The New Orleans Square area of Disneyland celebrates Mardi Gras each year. On that day, the streets of New Orleans Square are filled with music, Disney characters, street performers and special food items. This Mardi Gras celebration typically includes performances by Princess Tiana, Louis and Naveen and meet & greet opportunities with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n’ Dale – all dressed up in their Mardi Gras finest!

In 2024, the Disney California Food & Wine Festival was held March 1 – April 22.

The Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival celebrates some of the best of California cuisine. Festival Marketplace Kiosks offer California-inspired small plates and beverages at over a dozen different venues. There is live music, as well as food-related activities and demonstrations for all ages. On weekends there are culinary demonstrations from local, visiting and Disney chefs.

The Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions and Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars must be booked in advance.

Soarin’ Over California returns to Disney California Adventure just for the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. 

There are also special events and menu items at select restaurants in Disneyland Resort Hotels and Downtown Disney.

• For more information, visit the  Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival page.

New for 2024, Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite was held March 5 and 7 at Disneyland Park.

While the party itself takes place after the park closes to the general public, Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite ticket holders can enter Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 pm, giving you up to 7 hours in the park. A theme park reservation is not required.

There will be a High School Musical pep rally throughout the streets of Disneyland Park; a Phineas and Ferb dance party in Tomorrowland; “Camp Rock” karaoke and The Ultimate Disney Channel Trivia Challenge in The Golden Horseshoe. There will be photo opportunities with backdrops from Disney Channel shows, along with themed décor, food and beverages.

Costumes are encouraged, but must follow the costume rules for this event. See the Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite page  for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

2024 Tickets cost $139 per person (age 3 and up). Parking fees are not included in the ticket price.

• 2024 Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite tickets went on sale for Magic Key holders on December 12, and for everyone else on December 14, 2023.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite page . Please note: only a limited number of tickets go on sale for Magic Key holders on December 12. 

New for 2024, Season of the Force was held April 5 – June 2 in Disneyland Park. 

On select nights, Fire of the Rising Moon , a new fireworks show accompanied by music from the Star Wars films, will take place in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. 

There will be new adventures on Star Tours – The Adventures inspired by Ahsoka , Andor and The Mandalorian and the planet Peridea will be as the ride’s newest destination. During your flight, you may also receive urgent transmissions from Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor or Din Djarin and Grogu. Space Mountain will transform into Hyperspace Mountain. Special Star Wars-themed merchandise, food and beverages will be available. 

In 2025, Easter Sunday will be April 20.

Eggstravaganza, an Easter egg scavenger hunt is available for several weeks near Easter. There are three different game boards, one for Disney California Adventure, one for Disneyland Park and one for Downtown Disney. A game board and stickers costs $9.99 plus tax and can be purchased at select merchandise locations. Return your game board to Disney Showcase in Disneyland Park; Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure; or Disney’s Pin Traders and World of Disney in Downtown Disney to pick up a surprise.

Some restaurants may have a special Easter brunch menu. 

• For more information about Easter meals or to make a reservation, go to the  Disneyland dining page . 

In 2024, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite was held April 16, 18, 23, 25, 30; May 2, 7 and 9 at Disneyland Park.

Disneyland After Dark events take place after closing in either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure. Each Disneyland After Dark event requires a separate ticket. Select attractions are open and there is special entertainment, food, photo opportunities, collectible merchandise and more, all based on that evening’s theme. Attendees also receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party. There are a limited number of tickets for each event. 

While the party itself takes place after the park closes to the general public, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite ticket holders can enter Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 pm, giving you up to 7 hours in the park. A theme park reservation is not required. 

On Star Wars Nite there is a Star Wars-themed fireworks show, a Galactic dance party and a March of the First Order led by Captain Phasma. Star Wars themed attractions are open. Star Wars characters make appearances throughout the evening and there are Star Wars themed photo opportunities, merchandise, food and beverages.

Guests in Star Wars-themed costumes are invited to participate in a special cavalcade, where they will join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in a march down Main Street, U.S.A., ending with a group photo in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, illuminated with galactic projections.

Costumes are encouraged, but must follow the costume rules for this event. See the Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite page  for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

• $159 per person (age 3+) for April 16, 23, 30 and May 7
• $169 per person (age 3+) for April 18, 25; May 2 and 9
• 2024 Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite tickets went on sale for Inspire Magic Key holders on February 20, all Magic Key holders on Feb 21 and for everyone else on February 23.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite page . Please note: only a limited number of tickets go on sale for Magic Key holders on February 20, 21 and 22.

In 2024, Pixar Fest will be held April 26 – August 4.

Pixar Fest is a celebration of friendship and will feature a nighttime spectacular, a new parade and Pixar character encounters, along with Pixar-themed décor, food and beverages. There will also be Pixar-themed activities in Downtown Disney and in the Disney hotels. 

Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular in Disneyland Park celebrates the everlasting friendships forged by Pixar pals. The story comes to life through projections on Sleeping Beauty Castle, the water screens of the Rivers of America, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the buildings of Main Street, U.S.A. 

A new daytime parade, Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! , will debut in Disney California Adventure. There will be a Pixar Pals Dessert Package at Sonoma Terrace that includes reserved seating for the parade, plus Pixar-inspired foods and desserts. The cost of the dessert package is $69 per person (age 3 and up), including tax and gratuity.

In 2024, Pixar Place Hotel has a FREE limited-time speaker series for Disney hotels guests. Guests staying at any of the Disneyland Resort Hotels can book this at the Front Desk, subject to availability. The 2024 speaker schedule is: 

• May 25, 2024:Peter Sohn, director of Elemental
• June 20, 2024: Maurissa Horwitz, lead editor for Inside Out 2
• July 13, 2024: Roger Gould, creative director, Theme Parks, for Pixar Animation Studios

In 2025, Mother’s Day will be May 11.

On Mother’s Day, the second Sunday in May, Blue Bayou Restaurant and Carnation Café have offered special meals. Other restaurants may offer special meals as well.

• For more information about Mother’s Day meals or to make a reservation, go to the  Disneyland dining page .

In 2024, Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite was held June 18 and 20 at Disneyland Park.

While the party itself takes place after the park closes to the general public, Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite ticket holders can enter Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 pm, giving you up to 7 hours in the park. A theme park reservation is not required. 

On Pride Nite there will be a Pride Nite Cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A. featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Clarabelle, Donald, Daisy and Goofy dressed in special attire; a Rivers of America dance party; country line dancing at the Golden Horseshoe; and an Ohana Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace with Stich and other Disney characters. 

Plaza Inn will offer a dining package that includes reserved viewing for the fireworks and the cavalcade.

Themed attire that celebrates your true colors or unique self is encouraged, but must follow the costume rules for this event. See the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite page  for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

2024 Tickets cost $159 per person (age 3 and up). Parking fees are not included in the ticket price.

• 2024 Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite tickets went on sale for Magic Key holders on April 9, and for everyone else on April 11 . For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite page . Please note: only a limited number of tickets went on sale for Magic Key holders on April 9.

On July 4, Disneyland Park has a special patriotic nighttime spectacular: Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky .

Some Disneyland Resort Hotels offer a special meal, like a BBQ, or holiday activities. Sometimes these are open to the general pubic, sometimes they are only for hotel guests.

If you plan to visit Disneyland on Independence Day (July 4), be aware that it is one of the busiest days of the year . The park may reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Genie+ and buy paid Lightning Lane reservations right away, because the lines will be very long by noon and reservations will be gone quickly.

The 2024 CHOC Walk will be held on July 21.

This annual charity walk at Disneyland is a fundraiser for Children’s Hospital Orange County (CHOC). The walk passes through Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, followed by festivities in Downtown Disney.

• For more information, visit the CHOC Walk in the Park website .

In 2024, Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort will be held August 23 – October 31.

During this time period Disneyland Resort visitors will find Disney characters in seasonal costumes, whimsical décor, decked-out attractions and special seasonal treats. Halloween Time experiences include special appearances of Disney characters in their Halloween costumes and spooky-silly holiday themed decorations. 

In Downtown Disney there is Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit, a Halloween-themed pumpkin hunt. Search for different hidden pumpkins throughout Downtown Disney, each inspired by a different Disney character. Once you find a pumpkin, place the corresponding sticker on your game board. Game boards and stickers are available for $10.71, tax included. After your search is complete, return your game board to World of Disney or Disney’s Pin Trader for a surprise.

The Disneyland Resort Hotels have Halloween-themed displays in their lobbies. 

New for 2024, the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend will take place in early September.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party is a separately ticketed night time event which gives kids and their families the opportunity to dress in their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat throughout Disney California Adventure after it has closed to day guests. 

Special Halloween activities at Disney California Adventure include:

• Each night Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! turns into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. As night falls, The Collector’s Fortress goes dark, alarms sound and all-new lighting on the exterior of the Fortress alerts guests that something inside has gone awry. Rocket discovers that in the hurry to free his friends (during the day), they have inadvertently left Groot behind. Now Rocket needs to distract all the monsters he has unleashed inside the Fortress, and he enlists the guests to help.
• Buena Vista Street is decorated with Halloween décor inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Mickey Mouse and his friends will be decked out in their costumes. Oogie Boogie’s oversized silhouette beckons guests through the main entrance as a swarm of bats encircle Carthay Circle Theatre. A 10-foot-tall statue of the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow, holding his jack-o’-lantern head up to the sky, will be in Carthay Circle.
• In Cars Land, the citizens of Radiator Springs don their Halloween costumes and decorate their homes to celebrate Haul-O-Ween. From Fillmore’s Jack-Oil Lanterns and Flo’s Spider-Car to Witchy Miss Lizzie’s shop, everybody’s doing all they can to turn Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams! Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree becomes Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters transforms into Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.

Over at Disneyland you’ll find:

• Halloween Screams, a supernatural projection and special effects show takes place every night. On select nights, Halloween Screams includes fireworks. In the past, on select nights there has been a Halloween Dining Package at Plaza Inn that includes access to a reserved viewing area for Halloween Screams .
• In New Orleans Square, Jack Skellington and his friends transform the Haunted Mansion into the seasonal Haunted Mansion Holiday . Inspired by the animated film Nightmare Before Christmas , Haunted Mansion Holiday depicts the holiday mayhem that occurs when Halloween and Christmas traditions collide. Please note: In 2024, when Haunted Mansion Holiday opens it will use a virtual queue only.
• Frontierland pays tribute to Día de los Muertos , an Hispanic observance, with a traditional skeleton display.
• Main Street, U.S.A. celebrates with the Main Street Pumpkin Festival – more than 300 pumpkins will be on display in shop windows and none of them are the same!

For more information, visit Disneyland Resort’s Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort page.

Halloween Dining Package at Plaza Inn

In 2023, the Plaza Inn Halloween Dining Package was offered on September 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30; October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 and 31.

This dining package includes dinner and access to a reserved viewing area for the Halloween Screams fireworks in Disneyland Park. This dining package is available between 7 pm and 9 pm. The cost is $60 per adult (age 10 and up) and $30 per child (age 3-9), plus tax. Magic Key holder discounts apply. 

Disneyland Park admission and a theme park reservation are required and not included in this dining package. 

• Reservations for the 2023 Halloween Dining Package at Plaza Inn can be made via the Disneyland app or on the Plaza Inn Dining Packages page . You will receive a voucher to get you into the reserved fireworks viewing area. 

In 2024, Haunted Mansion Holiday will start on August 23. It usually runs through early January. Please note: In 2024, when Haunted Mansion Holiday opens it will use a virtual queue only.

The holiday-enhanced version of the Disneyland Park ride is a celebration where the traditions of Halloween and Christmas collide. The ghoulish but well-meaning Jack Skellington from the film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas comes to the Haunted Mansion to transform it with his skewed vision of the holidays. The Hatbox Ghost, who recently rejoined the Mansion’s happy haunts, is staying to celebrate Halloween and Christmas with Jack Skellington and his friends. Inside the Mansion, you will find a Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house.

In 2024, Oogie Boogie Bash will be held August 25, 27, 29; September 3, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29; October 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 30 and 31.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party is held on select nights at Disney California Adventure after the regular closing and requires separate admission to attend. Attendees can enter Disney California Adventure for up 3 hours before the event starts. A theme park reservation is NOT required for the park mix-in and event.

This 5-hour event includes:

• Villains Grove – The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail will be transformed into a world of Disney villains. This family-friendly experience will have a series of Halloween scenes, each creating a not-so-scary symphony of sound, light and shadows to explore.
• Frightfully Fun Parade – The Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow starts the procession, followed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and includes many mischievous Disney villains.
• Mickey’s Trick and Treat show – This live stage show at the Disney Theater in Hollywood Land features Mickey and friends sharing not-so-scary Halloween tales.

There will also be treat trails throughout the park for trick-or-treating and character sightings. Halloween magic will appear on the façade of Carthay Circle on Buena Vista Street.

In past years, you could make a reservation for the Wine Country Trattoria Oogie Boogie Bash Parade Dining Package or Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party . Both include access to a reserved viewing area for the parade. See below for more details about these dining packages.

All event attendees – including adults – may dress in their favorite Halloween costume but must follow strict guidelines. See Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash page  for full details. Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless their costume can be modified to meet the standards.

• $134 per person (age 3+) for August 25, 27 and 29
• $154 per person (age 3+) for September 3, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24 and 26
• $169 per person (age 3+) for September 15, 22, 29; October 1, 3, 8, 10, 15 and 17
• $179 per person (age 3+) for October 6, 13, 20, 22 and 24
• $189 per person (age 3+) for October 27, 29 and 31

Limit 8 tickets per person, per event date. Each ticket is valid for admission to the event on the specified event date. Tickets are not valid for theme park admission prior to the hours of the event, except as noted above. Please note: Parking is not included with your ticket purchase.

• 2024 Oogie Boogie Bash tickets went on sale for Inspire Magic Key holders on June 25, all Magic Key holders on June 26, and for everyone else on June 27.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash page . Please note: only a limited number of tickets go on sale for Magic Key holders on June 25. 

Wine Country Trattoria Oogie Boogie Bash Parade Dining Package

In 2023, the Wine Country Trattoria Oogie Boogie Bash Parade Dining Package were offered September 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28; October 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 and 31 as part of Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party .

This separately ticketed event includes a three course meal and access to a reserved standing viewing area for the Frightfully Fun Parade. This dining package is available on party dates for lunch (11 am – 3:55 pm) or dinner (4 pm – 4:40 pm). The cost for lunch or dinner is $62 per adult (age 10 and up) and $37 per child (age 3-9), plus tax and gratuity. There is a extra $10 charge if you order the rib-eye steak.

Admission to Oogie Boogie Bash is required and is not included in the price of this package.

• Reservations for the 2023 Wine Country Trattoria Oogie Boogie Bash Parade Dining Package  can be made via the Disneyland app or on the Wine Country Trattoria page . Please note: admission to Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party is required to reserve this dining package and is not included in the price.

Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party

In 2023, the Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party was offered on September 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28; October 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 and 31 as part of Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party . 

This separately ticketed event includes a dessert buffet, beverages and access to a reserved seating area for the Frightfully Fun Parade.   

The Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party costs $89 per person (age 3 and up), including tax and gratuity. Children ages 2 and under may attend free of charge, provided they are seated on the lap of an adult. Admission to Oogie Boogie Bash is required and is not included in the price of this package.

• Reservations for the 2023 Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party can be made via the Disneyland app or on the Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party page . Please note: admission to Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party is required and is not included in the price.

In 2024, Día de los Muertos will be held August 23 – November 2.

In Disneyland Park, Zócalo Park in Frontierland will have a colorful display featuring marigolds and papel picado, along with a traditional ofrenda, calaveras (sugar skulls), an iconic figure of La Catrina and food at Rancho del Zócalo.

• For more information, check Disneyland Resort’s Día de los Muertos page .

In 2024, Plaza de la Familia will take place August 23 – November 2.

In Disney California Adventure in Paradise Gardens, Plaza de la Familia celebrates Coco and the everlasting bonds of family. Families visiting Plaza de la Familia can share memories of loved ones on the memory wall near the Árbol de la Vida, or Tree of Life. There will also be a World of Coco exhibit and a special menu of Mexican dishes at Paradise Garden Grill. “A Musical Celebration of Coco,” performed several times a day, will feature storytellers, the Mariachi Divas and authentic Folklórico dancers to tell the story of Miguel’s journey in Coco .

• For more information, check Disneyland Resort’s Plaza de la Familia page .

New for 2024, the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend will be held September 5-8. Registration opened February 13, 2024.

The Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend will include a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and more, all themed to the Halloween season.

• For more information or to register, go to the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend page . Don’t wait too long to register; the races reach full capacity very quickly!

In 2024, Thanksgiving will be November 28. Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November.

Disneyland does not offer a Thanksgiving parade or decorations in the parks. However, the Christmas decorations are in place in the parks by Thanksgiving weekend and the Christmas Holiday events are well underway by that weekend.

A Disney Family Thanksgiving Feast is usually offered in the Grand Ballroom of the Disneyland Hotel on Thanksgiving Day. Many other restaurants on property also offer Thanksgiving menus.

• For more information about Thanksgiving meals or to make a reservation, go to the  Disneyland dining site .

It’s A Small World Holiday by Loren Javier ( CC )

In 2023, Holidays at Disneyland Resort were held November 10, 2023 – January 7, 2024.

In 2024, the Holidays at Disneyland Resort will begin on November 15, 2024. And end date has not been announced. 

The park decorations start going up gradually right after Halloween and are complete by the beginning of the official holiday period. The ABC-TV Disney Christmas Parade special (which is broadcast on Christmas Day) is filmed in part at Disneyland, usually on the first or second weekend of November, so the decorations on Main Street, U.S.A. have to be in place by then.

Once the holiday period officially begins, Disneyland Park guests can enjoy a nightly holiday fireworks spectacular – Believe…in Holiday Magic . During the holidays, the fireworks show concludes with a magical snowfall down Main Street, U.S.A., Small World Mall and New Orleans Square.  A Christmas Fantasy,  Disneyland’s annual holiday parade, begins around the same time. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle becomes Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle – covered with shimmering icicles and twinkling lights. Several rides undergo a special holiday transformation:  Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday. Santa Claus greets guests in Critter Country through Christmas Eve (December 24).

Disney California Adventure celebrates the season with special decorations and entertainment offerings and the  Festival of Holidays . This event features diverse cultural holiday celebrations, including  Disney ¡Viva Navidad! , along with the global sounds of special guest musical groups. There is holiday décor in Cars Land and Buena Vista Street. World of Color – Season of Light, a special holiday version of World of Color, takes place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. Holiday music and decorations transform Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters into Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree into Mater’s Jingle Jamboree. Santa Claus greets guests at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail through Christmas Eve (December 24). 

In Downtown Disney, there are carolers and holiday décor. At the Downtown Disney Live! Stage there is live entertainment Friday through Sunday evenings through December 25th.

Decorations in the resort hotels and Downtown Disney usually go up right after Thanksgiving (substantially later than the park decorations). Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is decorated with Craftsman-inspired décor, including natural garlands, a Christmas tree lit with “arts and crafts” lanterns and a giant gingerbread replica of the hotel in the lobby. Holiday sweets can be purchased from the lobby’s holiday cart. The midcentury Disneyland Hotel receives a retro-holiday look with silver trees and bright colors. 

Santa visits all three Disney hotels starting in late November/early December through Christmas Eve (December 24). Local performers and holiday carolers perform throughout the holiday season at each resort hotel.

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s Holidays at Disneyland Resort page .

In 2024, the Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure will begin on November 15, 2024. And end date has not been announced. 

In 2023, the Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure was held November 10, 2023 – January 7, 2024.

The Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure features holiday festivities inspired by cultural traditions from around the world. Entertainment experiences throughout the park draw on the diverse celebrations that bring joy during this festive time of year, including Diwali, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas/Navidad and Three Kings Day . This celebration also includes  Disney ¡Viva Navidad! , a celebration of Latino cultures. There is also  Mickey’s Happy Holidays, a dance party featuring Disney and Pixar characters and the Holiday Toy Drummers.

The Festive Foods Marketplace features holiday favorites from different cuisines and traditions. As part of the Festive Foods Marketplace, you can purchase a Sip and Savor Pass. The Sip and Savor pass has 8 tabs, each tab can be exchanged for one food item or one non-alcoholic beverage at participating Festive Food Marketplace locations.

World of Color – Season of Light , a special holiday version of World of Color, takes place on select nights throughout the season at Disney California Adventure. This nighttime spectacular combines classic holiday songs with memorable moments from Disney animated films to create an experience filled with magic.

Head into Redwood Creek Challenge Trail for Santa’s Holiday Visit, where you can meet Santa through Christmas Eve (December 24) and see how his joyful elves have transformed the area into a playground of holiday fun and games. 

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s Festival of Holidays page .

In 2023, Disney ¡Viva Navidad!  at Disney California Adventure took place November 10, 2023 – January 7, 2024.

In 2024, Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure will begin on November 15, 2024. And end date has not been announced. 

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is inspired by the warmth and joyous spirit of Latino cultures, filled with holiday traditions, jubilant dancing and exciting music. Based in and around the Paradise Garden area of Disney California Adventure, the special activities include crafts and face-painting for children, live music, dance lessons, holiday foods, a Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party and, of course, appearances by some popular Disney characters.

Paradise Garden is decorated with holly, banners and Latino cultural icons, including traditional “papel picado” hand-cut paper art decorations. At the bandstand, guests can enjoy performances by traditional mariachi, Norteño, and other regional music groups. Community music and folklorico troupes will perform throughout the day. Disney ¡Viva Navidad! guests will find opportunities to enjoy fun arts and crafts, storytelling and face-painting, and they may also discover a selection of unique merchandise in the area. Dining locations in Paradise Garden feature Mexican dishes that are often served for the holidays.

The Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party takes over Paradise Garden several times daily, featuring the Three Caballeros on a festive holiday float, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse transported on colorfully decorated street tricycles, flag-bearers carrying papel picado banners, Mexican folklorico dancers, samba dancers and drummers, plus giant “Mojiganga” puppets, including representations of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

The grand finale of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is the special celebration of Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos) in Paradise Garden.

• For more information, visit the Disneyland Resort’s ¡Viva Navidad!  page .

The Candlelight Processional at Disneyland Park is usually held the first weekend in December, with two performances each night, at 5:30 and 7:45 pm. Exact dates and narrators are not always announced in advance.

The annual event includes a celebrity narrator presenting the Biblical Christmas story as well as an orchestra and hundreds of choir members from local communities performing traditional carols. The members of the choir walk down Main Street, U.S.A. with lighted candles and gather in front of the train station in Town Square for the performance. Seating for this event is invitation-only. However, the general public can watch from any place not reserved for performers or invited guests.

Tips and tricks based on previous years:

• MouseSavers reader Laura C writes: “There is limited seating in the town square in front of the train station. Those seats are reserved for VIP’s… However, there is plenty of room to stand and watch behind the seating. Still very enjoyable and didn’t cost us an extra dime. Hint: If you get there early enough you can stand on the porch of guest services and see right over the heads of everyone – awesome spot.”
• Another reader reports in 2011 that she watched the second performance from the seats, without paying a dime. There were VIPs who paid $2,500 for a package including reserved seats. Once the VIPs were seated up front, the Cast Members allowed guests from the waiting crowd to take any unfilled seats. So it’s possible to get lucky!

In addition to the special parade, “snow” experience and fireworks at Disneyland, there are usually special buffet meals available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Information and reservations usually become available about 60 days in advance, you can check . Check the Disneyland dining site  for information and reservations.

If you plan to visit one of the theme parks on Christmas Day , be aware that it is one of the busiest days of the year. The parks (especially Disneyland) usually reach full capacity at some point during the day, and you may not be admitted (or re-admitted) to the parks after that point. (This is true even if you have a ticket, even if you’re staying at a Disney resort and even if you have dining reservations in the park. If the park is full, it’s full — Disney has to follow fire codes!) For that reason it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning and stay in the same park all day. Bring any sweaters or jackets you may need later and stow them in a locker when you arrive (the lockers will also sell out). Get Genie+ and buy paid Lightning Lane reservations right away, because the lines will be very long by noon and reservations will be gone quickly.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Droid depot.

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The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is owned by Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother herself and operated by her wand-toting Godmothers-in-Training. Children ages 3 – 12 can choose a hairstyle then add makeup, nail color and accessories, and even a Disney Princess costume. There are a variety of Princess packages as well as a Knight Package and Deluxe Knight Package. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance and are highly recommended. 

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is next to Sleeping Beauty Castle in Fantasyland in Disneyland Park. Disneyland Park admission and a theme park reservation are required. 

• There are occasionally limited-time discounts or deals for Disney Vacation Club members , be sure to ask when booking and at check-in.
• Note that you can bring your own princess costume from home and save a fortune vs. buying a costume at the Boutique!  Thanks to Carla C for info.

Droid Depot is an experience where guests get to make their own custom remote-control R2 unit, with custom pieces and decorations that make your specific droid one-of-a-kind. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance for the build-your-own droid experience. Reservations are not technically required, but unless you visit during very low season, a reservation is highly recommended. 

Droid Depot is in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Park. Disneyland Park admission and a theme park reservation are required. 

• Dream Key and Inspire Key Passholders  get 20% off at Droid Depot (excludes custom Astromech Units). 
• Believe, Enchant and Imagine Key Passholders  get 10% off at Droid Depot (excludes custom Astromech Units).  

Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Bowling)

Splitsville is a luxury bowling alley with great food, located in Downtown Disney. They also have live bands performing every night. There is no cover charge.

• Birnbaum’s Disneyland Resort 2024 includes a coupon for 10% off bowling at the Downtown Disney location. Limited to groups of 10 or less and cannot be applied to lane reservations or private events. Expires 12/31/24.

From time to time, Disneyland offers special discounts to   Disney Vacation Club members  and  Disney Visa cardholders on various park tours. Reserve a tour up to 60 days in advance online or using the Disneyland app. Theme park admission and a theme park reservation are required.

Disneyland VIP Tours are private tours just for your group. You’ll be led around by a Host or Hostess who will tailor the tour to your interests. They can usually assist you in experiencing the attractions with minimal waits (you don’t always skip the lines, but they know which rides will have the shortest lines at which times and in many cases they are allowed to use the Lightning Lane entrance). When you set up a VIP Tour, you can also request restaurant reservations, special viewing areas for certain shows and parades, etc. The cost is $425-$700 per hour for up to 10 guests (varies seasonally and higher rate applies if booked less than 48 hours in advance). There is a 7-hour minimum. Park admission is required. If you don’t already have a theme park reservation, the VIP Tour Office will assist you with getting one for the day of the VIP tour.

There are no discounts on the VIP Tours. You can arrange a VIP Tour by calling Disney Special Activities at (714) 300-7710 . Unlike the other tours, VIP Tours can be booked 90 days in advance.

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Two Fan-Favorite Disneyland Guided Tours Returning! One Includes Ride On Famous Lilly Belle Train Car

Disneyland's guided tours are one of the best ways to step behind the scenes at Disneyland to get up close to Disney history. Whether it's touring Walt's original apartment or taking pictures with the animatronics from Haunted Mansion, these tours are perfect for Disneyland fans.

Most of Disneyland's tours were suspended in 2020 and we have seen most of them return in phases over the past few years.

Now we have news that two of Disneyland's most iconic tours are returning with one giving guests the unique opportunity to experience a piece of Walt Disney history!

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Disneyland Tours Returning Soon

Disneyland has announced the return of two popular guided tours: the Cultivating the Magic Guided Tour and the Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour.

The most popular of these tours being the Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour (previously known as The Grand Circle Tour) which gives guests the chance to view the iconic Lilly Belle train car. Lillian Disney (Walt Disney's wife) designed the interior of the car so the coach was named in her honor. This train car has been given limited access over the years to preserve its history and I am thrilled to see it return as part of this fan favorite tour.

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Cultivating the Magic Disneyland Tour

During the Cultivating the Magic Guided Tour guests can learn more about how the plants and flowers play an essential part of the storytelling at Disneyland. The tour includes trips to the flower beds in Town Square, the hub in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, Tomorrowland, the exotic foliage on the Jungle Cruise, and more.

The tour includes front of the line access to the Jungle Cruise as the tour guide explains the significance the plants and flowers have while guests ride this classic attraction.

Tour guests will also receive a special keepsake. In the past these special keepsakes have included pins with the name and year of the tour. See below for an example of the pin I received during the Happiest Haunts Tour during the Halloween season at Disneyland.

Current pricing hasn't been revealed quite yet but I imagine we'll see the cost in the $100 per person price range which is standard for most Disneyland tours.

Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour

The Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour has always been one of the most popular tours at Disneyland since it focuses on such a quintessential part of Disney history which is Walt Disney's affinity for trains.

Guests on the tour will learn about the impact trains had on Walt Disney's dreams and vision for both animation, film, and theme parks. Behind the scenes moments on the tour include a trip to the Disneyland Park Roundhouse which is not typically viewed by the public.

But the best behind the scenes stop includes the special ride on Disneyland Railroad's special Presidential Car called the Lilly Belle. Keep in mind that the trip on the Lilly Belle is not guaranteed, which is the same as in the past, as it depends on weather and other factors. Disney's biggest priority is preserving the history of this famous train car so that will always be top priority.

This tour also includes a special keepsake plus a beverage and pastry. Pricing is not yet available but past pricing was $85 per person.

When Can I Book The Disneyland Tours?

The Cultivating the Magic and and Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour reservations are available starting on April 30th (likely at 6AM PT) for tours that begin on May 11th. You can book these tours on the Disneyland website. 

Disney Visa Card Members receive 15% off guided tours. You will need to pay in full for the tour at the time of booking. Unfortunately, Disney gift cards cannot be used for guided tours. There is a 24-hour cancellation policy otherwise payment will be forfeited.

The most popular of these tours will be the Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour so if you are interested in experiencing this iconic tour then make sure you are online and ready to book so you do not miss out.

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Lindsay is a college English instructor and has years of writing experience through various nonprofits, charities, newspapers, and online magazines. As the content director of Mickey Visit, she oversees article content and leads our fantastic team of writers to meet guest vacation needs. You can still find her writing weekly content to help make your Disney Parks trip fantastic here on Mickey Visit and Disney Dose- you can also view her recently featured posts on Disney Parks travel on Visit Anaheim, Nerd Wallet and SFGate. Lindsay comes from a dedicated Disney family and enjoys taking her son to the Disney parks as often as possible.

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Disneyland | How to get tickets to Disneyland’s Oogie…

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Subscriber only, disneyland | how to get tickets to disneyland’s oogie boogie bash, tickets for the after-hours, separate admission halloween event at disney california adventure go on sale starting june 25..

Tickets for the after-hours, separate admission event go on sale to Inspire Magic Keyholders on Tuesday, June 25, all Magic Keyholders on Wednesday, June 26 and to the general public on Thursday, June 27 at Disneyland.com/OogieBoogieBash .

The online ticket window waiting room will open at approximately 8:45 a.m. with sales starting no earlier than 9 a.m. each day.

Ticket buyers waiting in the online queue can once again get notified by email when it’s their turn to buy tickets by using the “notify me” option.

A limited amount of tickets will be available for the two Magic Key presales.

Oogie Boogie Bash 2024 will run on 27 select nights from Aug. 25 through Oct. 31 at Disney California Adventure.

This year’s edition of Oogie Boogie Bash will include familiar nighttime entertainment like the Frightfully Fun Parade and Villains Grove along with trick-or-treat trails. Character costumes, food and merchandise typically have a seasonal flair.

The Oogie Boogie Bash after-hours party is separate from the Halloween Time decor that takes over the parks during the All Hallow’s Eve season. The 5-hour after-party starts at 6 p.m. with mix-in beginning three hours earlier.

All the Halloween attraction overlays you’ve known from seasons past will be back — including Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters.

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Disneyland | Disneyland simplifies Genie+ ride reservation…

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Disneyland | disneyland simplifies genie+ ride reservation system, the mix of the genie, genie+ and lightning lane names and signage has been a constant source of confusion for visitors..

Disneyland will drop the Disney Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane names on July 24 in favor of Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass.

ALSO SEE: Will Disneyland spend millions to bring back the ‘Fantasmic’ dragon?

The paid Genie+ and Lightning Lane services took over for the free Fastpass service in December 2021 after the yearlong pandemic closure of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.

The mix of the Genie, Genie+ and Lightning Lane names and signage combined with the memory of Fastpass lanes has been a constant source of confusion for Disneyland and DCA visitors.

ALSO SEE: Six Flags-Cedar Fair merger won’t force sale of Magic Mountain or Knott’s Berry Farm

While the Genie+ name is going away, the Genie name (minus the plus) will still remain.

The free Disney Genie personal assistance service in the Disneyland app that offers tips and tools for planning your day at the parks will still carry the Genie name.

The $30 Lightning Lane Multi Pass line-cutting perk is good for 22 attractions at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.

The Lightning Lane Single Pass will cost you $16 to $26 to jump to the front of the line on a single marquee attraction — currently available on one attraction at each park.

Disneyland will have 13 Lightning Lane Multi Pass attractions: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Indiana Jones Adventure, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Pirates of the Caribbean, Star Tours, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, It’s a Small World, Autopia, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin.

Pirates of the Caribbean is a temporary addition to the Lightning Lane lineup while Haunted Mansion remains closed.

The nine Lightning Lane Multi Pass rides at Disney California Adventure: Web Slingers, Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout, Incredicoaster, Soarin’ Around the World, Toy Story Midway Mania, Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure, Grizzly River Run, Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue and Goofy’s Sky School.

The Lightning Lane Single Pass rides remain Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland and Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure.

Prices are not expected to rise with the name change — but Disneyland has steadily increased prices on the paid services since introducing them.

Walt Disney World is rolling out similar changes to the Genie+ system — with one additional twist that’s not coming to Disneyland.

The Florida theme park resort will allow visitors to book Lightning Lane Multi Passes and Lightning Lane Single Passes three to seven days in advance.

Disneyland and DCA visitors can book Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass on the day of their visit as soon as each park opens.

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More in Disneyland

Disneyland | Will Disneyland spend millions to bring back the ‘Fantasmic’ dragon?

Disneyland | Niles: Disney needs to look indoors for its theme park future

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