Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread #3!- HOLIDAYS BEGIN 11/12/13!!

[Sherry E]

Disneyland Resort's 2013 Holiday Season Dates Are:​

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 - Monday, January 6, 2014​

​

"Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Returns November 12 Through January 6"
(posted on August 6th, 2013 -- Disney Parks Blog, by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort)

Disneyland Resort 2013 Holiday Information/Overview Page

Disneyland Resort 2013 Holidays Press Kit - from Disneyland News











WELCOME, WELCOME, WELCOME to the
Disneyland Resort at Christmas Time/Holiday Season
Information & Photo Superthread - Part 3!!!



Please also see the previous Superthreads - Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread #2 and Disney at Christmas - for lots of fantastic photos and information on the "most wonderful time of the year"!

We have a wonderful panel of experts who are here to answer questions, dispense valuable holiday advice, information, tips, insight and, most importantly, share PHOTOS!!

We discuss anything and everything pertaining to Christmas Time (as well as the entire holiday season) at the Disneyland Resort - holiday attractions, holiday decorations, crowds, planning, etc. *We cover the entire season from its start in early November to when it ends in early January, and we encourage our subscribers to share their experiences and photos!*

For your reference, on this page (below) you will find multiple posts with details or links to info about different holiday categories, i.e., seasonal entertainment, food/treats, merchandise/shopping, the hotels of the Disneyland Resort, etc. There is also a post directing you to holiday-related Trip Reports by our DIS'ers!

This thread is a celebration of all things merry and festive at the Disneyland Resort during the Christmas season. If you have never been to the parks during this magical time of year and are planning to visit, you are in for a treat! It is a feast for the eyes and a joy for all the senses. For example:​

The entire Resort transforms into a holiday wonderland, including most shops and restaurants, the 3 Disney hotels and Downtown Disney. Almost no corner is left unadorned in holiday splendor.


The enchanting Winter Castle's icicle lights glow brightly after dark.


The dazzling It's a Small World Holiday invites you to celebrate the holiday season around the world, while the mesmerizing colors of the facade take your breath away at night.

The aromas of peppermint and gingerbread fill the air.

Familiar Yuletide songs change style from land to land: from a jazz-inspired version of "Jingle Bells" in New Orleans Square, to a Western-influenced "Deck the Halls" in Frontierland, to a vintage rendition of "Frosty the Snowman" providing the soundtrack for the hustle and bustle of Buena Vista Street...music plays an integral part in setting the holiday mood. (You may even hear a few famous characters offering their own unique take on the seasonal classics in Toon Town!)

Santa holds court in 5 locations around Disneyland Resort (both parks and all 3 hotels). The Jingle Jangle Jamboree is a particularly fun spot to meet St. Nick and other characters clad in winter sweaters and Christmas wear.

Seasonal treats are both whimsical and delicious. The popular Santa Mickey popcorn buckets can be found in many stores and at carts around both parks. Gingerbread cookies wearing familiar 'ears' can be found throughout the confectioneries and bake shops. Peppermint fudge, snowman marshmallow treats and yule logs are only a few of the culinary Christmas creations you can enjoy around the Resort.

Dickens carolers stroll through the hotels and sing for the guests, and Bell Ringers entertain the crowds on Buena Vista Street.

Adults and children alike smile and marvel as snow falls on Main Street, leaving behind the aroma of gingerbread in the air.

The awe-inspiring "Believe...In Holiday Magic" fireworks are sure to bring a tear to your eye.

"A Christmas Fantasy Parade," a longstanding tradition at Disneyland, is a joyous spectacle to behold. On a chilly holiday night, be sure to bundle up next to your loved ones with some cocoa and enjoy this magical offering.

Uniquely themed decorations can be found in New Orleans Square, Toontown, Frontierland, A Bug's Land and Cars Land.

​

Sounds delightful, right? Don't wait! Join us -- and let's start planning together!



​

 

[Sherry E]

Days/Dates/Events to Remember for the 2013-2014 Holiday Season
at Disneyland Resort*

(*listings in italics or with ??? next to them indicate that the dates have neither been confirmed nor announced, and/or are subject to change)


​

Disneyland Resort Park Hours/Schedule/Calendar (dates are always subject to change)

​

(September 2013)


September 13, 2013 -- Haunted Mansion Holiday opens in Disneyland

​

(October 2013)


Holiday decorations and merchandise begin to appear in Disneyland and California Adventure towards the end of Halloween Time, even before October 31st.

​

(November 2013)


Friday, November 8, 2013 -- Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks begin in Disneyland

Friday, November 8, 2013 -- Buena Vista Street Christmas Tree Lighting Begins in California Adventure

Friday, November 8th, 2013 and Saturday, November 9th, 2013 -- Christmas Parade Taping

Friday, November 8, 2013 -- A Christmas Fantasy Parade begins in Disneyland

Friday, November 8, 2013 -- It's a Small World Holiday soft opens on this date in Disneyland

Friday, November 8, 2013 -- Jingle Cruise soft opens in Disneyland

Friday, November 8, 2013 -- Jingle Jangle Jamboree soft opens in Disneyland

???Friday, November 8, 2013 -- Wintertime Lighting of Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle begins in Disneyland (soft opens?)

Monday, November 11, 2013 -- Veterans Day

Monday, November 11, 2013 -- Tickets for Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen 2013 Gingerbread House Workshop go on sale on Facebook

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 -- Holiday Season officially begins at Disneyland Resort (characters in seasonal attire will be out for photos)

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 -- Holiday Time Tour begins

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 -- It's a Small World Holiday officially begins

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 -- Jingle Cruise officially opens in Disneyland

Tuesday, November 12, 2013 -- Jingle Jangle Jamboree officially opens in Disneyland

Thursday, November 14, 2013 -- Winter Village opens in Downtown Disney

Friday, November 15, 2013 -- Disney Viva Navidad! begins in California Adventure

???Friday, November 15, 2013 -- Mad T Party Holiday show begins in California Adventure

Friday, November 15, 2013 -- Wintertime Enchantment Lighting of Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle officially begins in Disneyland

Friday, November 15, 2013 -- World of Color - Winter Dreams begins in California Adventure

Monday, November 18th, 2013 - Friday, November 22nd, 2013 -- The View tapes at Disneyland Resort

Saturday, November 23, 2013 - The famous handmade candy canes begin in Disneyland; see this page for full 2013 holiday schedule

Wednesday, November 27, 2013 -- Hanukkah begins

Thursday, November 28, 2013 -- Thanksgiving


???Friday, November 29, 2013 -- Downtown Disney should begin to play holiday music.

???Friday, November 29, 2013 -- All entertainment (Santa Claus, Carolers) and decorations should begin at the 3 Hotels of the Disneyland resort.




???Unsure of the status of the Storybook Land Canal boats and when the miniature decorations on that ride will be in place

???Unsure of whether or not there will be a Winter overlay in Pixie Hollow this year

​

(December 2013)


Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8, 2013 -- Candlelight Ceremony takes place in Disneyland (Town Square)

Saturday, December 14, 2013 -- Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Gingerbread House Workshop

Sunday, December 15, 2013 -- Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Gingerbread House Workshop

Saturday, December 21, 2013 -- Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Gingerbread House Workshop

Sunday, December 22, 2013 -- Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Gingerbread House Workshop - D23 event

Tuesday, December 24, 2013 -- Christmas Eve

Wednesday, December 25, 2013 -- Christmas

Tuesday, December 31, 2013 -- New Year's Eve

​

(January 2014)


Wednesday, January 1, 2014 -- New Year's Day

Friday, January 3 -- Monday, January 6, 2014 -- Three Kings Day celebration takes place

Sunday, January 6, 2014 -- Last day of Haunted Mansion Holiday before removal of overlay

Sunday, January 6, 2014 -- Last day of Holiday Time tour

Monday, January 6, 2014 -- Holiday Season officially ends

???January ___, 2014 -- Last day of It's a Small World Holiday before removal of overlay

​

 

[Sherry E]

General Information​

DIS Unplugged Holiday Podcasts

Christmas Call-In Show (December 6, 2012) - The Podcast team and I tackle all the commonly asked questions about the holiday season, including special menu items available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and much, much more!

California Adventure Christmas (November 22, 2012) - Nancy gives the scoop on all of the new decorations in Cars Land and on Buena Vista Street, as well as shares info she learned from the Disneyland Resort Enhancement Team!

Holiday Preview 2012 (November 8, 2012) Mary Jo, Tom and the gang discuss the exciting changes coming soon to the 2012 holiday season

​

Previous Christmas Superthreads

Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Photo & Information Superthread #2, 2010-2012 (started by Sherry E)

Disney at Christmas (Unofficial Superthread, Part 1 - started by stitchsclan)

​

Holidays at Disneyland Resort -
Frequently Asked Questions​

Q: When does the holiday season begin and end at the Disneyland Resort?​

A: Typically, the season will "officially" begin within a day or two after Veterans Day - so around early/mid-November. The season sometimes begins on Fridays and sometimes on Mondays. Many things in the parks (such as It's a Small World Holiday) will open a few days before the official season start date, but not everything. The 3 hotels will not be decorated until right around Thanksgiving.

The season will generally end on the first Sunday after New Year's Day. If New Year's Day falls on a Sunday, the last day of the season will likely be one week from that day. Decorations and overlays begin to come down even before the season ends. Of course, there can be adjustments and alterations in the schedule depending on which dates fall on which days of the week.

This year, the holiday season will begin on Tuesday, November 12, 2013, and extend through Monday, January 6, 2014.​

Q: What are the usual park hours during the holiday season?​

A: Here are the park hours and dates for 2013 (schedules will be updated and filled in as Disneyland Resort releases its calendar information):

November 2013 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times

December 2013 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times (list is not yet complete)


These were the park hours and Entertainment Schedules for November and December of 2011 and 2012:

November 2012 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times

November 2011 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times

December 2012 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times

December 2011 - Disneyland Park Hours/Parades and Show Times
​

Q: Is there a Christmas party held at Disneyland resort?​

A: Thus far, there are no Christmas parties (such as the equivalent of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World) held at DLR, although there are rumors swirling about the possibility of a party based on the popularity of the yearly Halloween parties. This party - if it comes to fruition - could happen as early as this year's (2013's) holiday season but there have been no confirmed reports or announcements as of yet. Most likely we will not see an official party take place until at least the holiday season of 2014.​

Q: When does the Candlelight Ceremony (Processional) take place?​

A: Traditionally, the Candlelight Processional had taken place in Town Square on the first Saturday and Sunday in December. However, last year - 2012 - it took place over 20 nights in December, from December 1st - 20th. There have been rumors that the CP may move into California Adventure in the future, or to another location in Disneyland. If this happens, the dates may change in some way, i.e., more dates added, different start dates, etc. No announcements have been made about the future of the Candlelight Ceremony, but it appears as though the dates for 2013 will be Saturday, December 7th and Sunday, December 8th, pending any surprise announcements.​

Q: When is the least crowded time to visit Disneyland resort during the holiday season?​

A: Ahhh...the age-old question. The holiday season at DLR is extremely popular and is a busy time overall, from its start in November to its end in early January. It is, like summer, considered peak season. Attendance is up, hours are extended for some of the time and entertainment is in full swing. The last few holiday seasons have broken records for attendance, with 2009 being the busiest holiday season at DLR in 10 years; 2010 surpassing 2009; 2011 surpassing 2010; and so on.

The common belief is that November is less crowded than December. However, opening weekend of the season is always quite crowded, and many people have reported that the time frame/week immediately leading up to Thanksgiving weekend is extremely busy. The parks apparently clear out substantially right after Thanksgiving weekend is over, when weary visitors head back to school and work.

The completion of the billion dollar makeover of California Adventure has served to attract many more guests into that park as well.

The earlier portion of December is less crowded than the second half of that month. But, the Candlelight Ceremony is commonly believed to draw large crowds, and many folks choose to avoid those days/nights.

After Thanksgiving weekend, the crowds lighten up considerably until approximately mid-December. From mid-December on through the remainder of the season, the crowds steadily and rapidly increase, usually reaching a fever pitch in the week between Christmas and New Year's Day. Both Disneyland and California Adventure reached capacity between those holidays in 2010 and in 2011 (although DL itself has been known to reach capacity even before Christmas here and there), and on a couple of occasions DL actually had to stop selling tickets and stop letting people in the gates early in the day (before noon).

So, based on reports from DIS'ers, facts, figures and patterns, it would seem that, thus far, the least crowded periods of the holiday season at DLR would be immediately after Thanksgiving weekend, into the first 2 weeks of December.

Even though the season will not have officially begun at this point, late October/early November visitors will see that decorations are going up, a little at a time each day.​

Q: What is the weather like during the holiday season at DLR?​

A: First of all, see HydroGuy's informative thread about DLR weather:

Detailed Weather Data for DLR

November and December weather in Southern California can be varied and even unpredictable. Many of us who are longtime SoCal residents have witnessed very warm Autumns and Winters, where sometimes the temperatures can reach into the 90's. There have also been periods of torrential rain. Sometimes it may be 50 degrees at DLR in the daytime and in the 30's at night. Other times it's in the 70's in the daytime and in the 50's at night. I've personally been to DLR in both November and December when it's been very warm. And I've been to DLR in both of those months when its been very cold (30 degrees at night) and/or raining heavily.

Chances are it will be fairly warm in November - meaning in the upper 70's at least, if not the low 80's, and cool in the evenings. December will most likely offer temperatures in the 60's or 70's in the daytime and in the 50's at night....but as stated above, it can be a very unpredictable month and it could get very cold or warm out of the blue! A wise tip from many of our seasoned holiday travellers is to dress in layers, so it will be easy to get comfortable during any unexpected shifts in temperature.​

​

Holiday Blogs and Press Releases​

(2013)​

Disneyland Resort 2013 Holiday Information/Overview Page

Disneyland Resort 2013 Holidays Press Kit - from Disneyland News



ABC's The View to Broadcast from the Disneyland Resort November 18-22 - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 14th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

Disney Parks Will Be Getting Frozen This November - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 7th, 2013 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Returns November 12 Through January 6 - Disney Parks Blog; posted on August 6th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort

(2012)​

Merry Christmas from the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 25th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Molly the Messenger Delivers Letters to (And From) Santa on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 21st, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Holiday Magic Found Throughout the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 19th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Cars Land-Inspired Holiday Decor You Can Make at Home - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 18th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Nighttime Holiday Magic at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 18th, 2012 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Holidays at Disneyland Resort: The Magic Looks and Feels Different - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 14th, 2012 by Michele Himmelberg, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

Cars Land Gets Gussied Up for the Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 7th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

The Halls are Decked for the Holidays on Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 4th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print


The Happiest Place on Earth Just Got Merrier: Disney California Adventure Park Celebrates First Holiday Season Since its Grand Reopening - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 3rd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Get Revved Up for the Holidays in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 30th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Three New Gingerbread Creations Debut at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 26th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Military Family Flips the Switch on More Than 300,000 Holiday Lights at Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 13th, 2012 by Kevin Rafferty, Jr., Communications Specialist, Disneyland Resort


Creating Holiday Traditions on Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 1st, 2012 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

Holidays Come to Cars Land! Seasonal Cheer Spreads Throughout Disneyland Resort as The Happiest Place on Earth Gets Merrier Starting Nov. 12 - Disneyland News, October 23rd, 2012

Holiday Cheer Spreads Throughout the Disneyland Resort - Disneyland News, October 23, 2012

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Coming November 12 Through January 6 - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 2nd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

(2011)​

New Year's Eve Adventures Await at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 30th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Test Your Disneyland Resort Holiday Knowledge - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 22nd, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Toy Soldier Holiday Jam at Disneyland Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 22nd, 2011 by Valerie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Disney Characters Get Dressed Up for Holiday Fun at Disney Parks - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2011 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

Merry Holiday Hunt at the Disneyland Resort: How Many of These Festive Places Will You Find? - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 14th, 2011 by Michele Himmelberg, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

Phineas and Ferb's Rockin Rollin Dance Party: Holiday Edition, at Disney California Adventure Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 9th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Take A Look At How We Put Up Our Christmas Tree at Disneyland Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 2nd, 2011 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Have You Seen Toy Soldiers Drumming Up Cheer at Disneyland Park? - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 30th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Over-the-Top, Dream-Come-True Holiday Experience at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 21st, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Things You Might Not Know About Holidays at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 18th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Military Family Officially Kicks Off Holidays at the Disneyland Resort in Lighting Ceremony Presented by SYLVANIA - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 15, 2011 by Betsy Sanchez, Manager of Media Relations, Disneyland Resort

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Begins Today! - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 14th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Deck the Halls - and the Disneyland Resort - with Lots of Holly! - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 10th, 2011 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Sneak Peek: Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Begins November 14 - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 2nd, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

(2010)​

A Look at New Year's Eve Celebrations at Disneyland Resort Over the Years - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 28th, 2010 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Happy Holidays from the Dapper Dans - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 24th, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

New Year's Eve 2010 at Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 21st, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

Guest Spotlight: Celebrating 45 Consecutive Christmas Eves at Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 20th, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

Favorite Holiday Traditions at Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 17th, 2010 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

It's All About the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 23rd, 2010 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

(2009)​

Disney Characters Decorate Disneyland Park Through the Years - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 22nd, 2009 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

Main Street, U.S.A. Holiday Fun Facts - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 2nd, 2009 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company




(DIS Unplugged)

Disney California Adventure Dresses Up in New Holiday Decor! - DIS Unplugged; posted on November 14, 2012 by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent

Disneyland Gems: Holidays at Disneyland! - DIS Unplugged; posted on November 21, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent

​

Check-In/Meet Threads for 2013

November 2013/Is there a November Check-In Thread? (started by Autty40 and wildflower329 -- merged threads)

December 2013 Check in Thread Post your travel dates and hotel here (funatdisney)

​

 

[Sherry E]

Seasonal Entertainment/Activities/Highlights/Events

​

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

"First Look: Mario Lopez, Backstreet Boys and More at Disneyland Park for Shooting of the 2012 Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade on ABC" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 5th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"A Christmas Fantasy Parade at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 30th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"A Unique Point of View: Santa at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 23rd, 2011 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

"What's Your Favorite Part of A Christmas Fantasy Parade?" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 1st, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company



(DIS Unplugged)

"The Annual Taping of the Disneyland Christmas Day Parade" - DIS Unplugged; posted by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent, November 18, 2009

​

Believe...In Holiday Magic Fireworks

"Are You Ready to Glow with the SNOW at Disneyland Park?" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 9th, 2012 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

​

Candlelight Ceremony (Processional) Information

Disneyland Events (there will be a new Candlelight page on this site each year, with dates and other background information -- the Candlelight page may not be active for the first few months of the year)

"Memories and Reflections from 2012 Disneyland Candlelight Ceremony Narrators" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 25, 2012 by Donna Fisk, Broadcast Publicist, Disneyland Resort

"2012 Candlelight Ceremony Merchandise at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 21st, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

"2012 Disneyland Candlelight Ceremony Viewing Opportunities" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 5th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"2012 Disneyland Candlelight Ceremony Narrators Announced" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 26th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"An Early Holiday Gift for Disneyland Guests: Twenty Nights of Disneyland Candlelight Ceremony Performances Scheduled for 2012" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on August 15th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Candlelight in Motion at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 23rd, 2011 by Paul Hiffmeyer, Chief Photographer for Public Relations, Disneyland Resort




Other Candlelight Information

Sherry E's review/recap of December 2012 Candlelight Ceremony


(Older Candlelight Processional Info/Threads)

What IS the Candlelight Processional? (2010 - by mrsxsparrow)

Candlelight Ceremony & Procession (from MousePlanet)

​

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! (Coming to California Adventure in November 2013!!)

"Kick Off the Holiday Season with Limited Time Magic at Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 8th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Adds a Festive Latino Celebration to Holiday Season at the Disneyland Resort, Nov. 15-Jan. 6" -- Disneyland News; posted on October 10, 2013

"Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Brings a Festive Celebration to Disney California Adventure Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 10th, 2013 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

​

Haunted Mansion Holiday


(2013)

"Today in Disney History: Walt Disney Pictures Releases Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas" Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 29th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"It's Freaky Friday - Time to Open Another Door on the Gingerbread House Inside Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 11th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Limited Time Magic Celebrates 13 Seasons of Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 4th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"The Haunted Mansion Holiday Transformation" - Disney Insider; posted on October 1, 2013

"Disneyland Resort Fun Facts: Haunted Mansion Holiday" - Disneyland News; posted on September 25, 2013

"Creating the Magic of Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 19th, 2013 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

"Celebrating 13 Frightfully Fun Seasons of Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 13th, 2013 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

"13 Years of Delightful Frights" - Disney Rewards/Visa/Debit, (August) Fall 2013 Newsletter



(2012)

"Behind the Scenes: Haunted Mansion Holiday Gingerbread House at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 23rd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"From Haunted Mansion to Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 18th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Magical Makeover for the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 14th, 2012 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

"SNEAK PEEK: Jack's Gingerbread House Arrives at the Haunted Mansion in Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on August 20th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer



(2011)

"Celebrating 10 Years of Haunted Mansion Holidays at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 12th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Things You Might Not Know About Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 13th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print



(2010)

"Haunted Mansion Holiday Panorama" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 26th, 2010 by George Savvas, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort




(From DIS Unplugged)

"The Sights of Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland" (October 29th, 2011, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Karlos Siqueiros - The Gingerbread Man" (October 12th, 2010, by Tom Bell, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

​

Holiday Tour Information/Reviews/Threads

(2013)

Review of the Holiday Time at Disneyland Tour (by the_princess, from December 2013)

Holiday Tour 2013 Info page on Disneyland Resort website


(2012)

"Disneyland Resort Guided Tours: Holiday Time at Disneyland Park Tour" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 15, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print


(2011)

2011 Tour Review (by tksbaskets)

2011 Tour Review (by areweindisneyyet)

2011 Tour Review (by DizNee Luver - Tour recap/photos start in Post #479)

2011 Holiday Tour. Who Has Booked and when? (started by areweindisneyyet)


(2010)

2010 Holiday Tour booked! Added: compilation of who's going when. (started by Ariel224)


(2009)

2009 Tour Review (by tksbaskets)

Holiday Tour Info (from 2009 - started by hyena29)

:​

It's a Small World Holiday

(2013)

"New Surprises in Store for it's a small world Holiday at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 29th, 2013 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment


(2012)

"Disney Parks After Dark: It's a small world Holiday at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 20th, 2012 by Paul Hiffmeyer, Chief Photographer for Public Relations, Disneyland Resort


(2011)

"It's a small world Holiday Transformation at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 7th, 2011 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

"Sneak Peek: Holiday Surprises Coming to The Magic, The Memories and You! at Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 7th, 2011 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment


(2009)

"Disney Parks Unveils Small World Holiday Spot" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2009 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks


(DIS Unplugged)

"Disneyland Holiday Design: The Wreaths of Small World Holiday" - DIS Unplugged; by Nancy Johnson, December 1, 2011

​

Jingle Cruise (Jungle Cruise holiday overlay coming in early November 2013!)

(REGARDING THE MAGIC KINGDOM AT WALT DISNEY WORLD) "Imagineers Share the First Photos of Jingle Cruise at Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 8th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

"First Look: Jingle Cruise Props & Opening Dates at Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

"Jungle Cruise Goes Jingle Cruise for the Holidays at Disneyland Park & Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 23rd, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

​

Jingle Jangle Jamboree (formerly Santa's Reindeer Round-Up)

"Y'All Come on Down to the Jingle Jangle Jamboree at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 12th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Santa's on His Way to the Jingle Jangle Jamboree at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2012 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

"Santa's 8 Famous Reindeer are at Disneyland Resort!" - Disney Parks Blog;
posted on December 3rd, 2010 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations


(DIS Unplugged)

"Reindeer in Training at Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch" (December 25, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Rustic Holiday Décor Ideas from Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch" (December 21, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

​

Mad T Party

"Mad T Party Gets Merrier at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 8th, 2012 by Robin Trowbridge, Entertainment Show Director, Disneyland Resort

​

Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle

"Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 29th, 2010 by Paul Hiffmeyer, Chief Photographer for Public Relations, Disneyland Resort

"Time-Lapse Video: Sleeping Beautys Winter Castle at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 2nd, 2010 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

"Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle" - Disneyland News; October 24, 2010

​

Three Kings Day

"Three Kings Day Celebration Returns to Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 19th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Celebrate Three Kings Day at Disneyland Park with Special Menu Items" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 3rd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Disneyland Park Celebrates Three Kings Day" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 20th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print



(From DIS Unplugged)

"Limited Time Magic: Three Kings Day at Disneyland" - DIS Unplugged; by Tom Bell, Contributor/Correspondent, January 4, 2013

​

World of Color - Winter Dreams (Coming to California Adventure in November 2013!!)

"First Look: World of Color - Winter Dreams at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 8th, 2013 by Steven Davison, Imagineer, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment

(CLOSED) "Sign Up Now to Attend World of Color - Winter Dreams Premiere with the Disney Parks Blog" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"PIXAR Brings Toy Story Nutcracker to Life for World of Color - Winter Dreams at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 21st, 2013 by Steven Davison, Imagineer, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment

"Disneyland Resort Debuts World of Color - Winter Dreams, a Merry New Spectacular for 2013 Holiday Season" Disneyland News; posted on October 18, 2013

"Lend Your Voice to World of Color - Winter Dreams at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 24th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"Behind the Scenes: New Custom Animation for World of Color - Winter Dreams at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 11, 2013 by Steven Davison, Imagineer, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative Entertainment

"Disneyland Annual Passholders: Your Seasons Greetings Card Could Be Part of World of Color - Winter Dreams at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on August 30, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort

"Special World of Color Announcement from Imagineer Steve Davison at Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on July 25th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print, Disneyland Resort


From Other Sources:

Speculation: "Eric Whitacre to Produce Virtual Choir for Disney's 'World of Color'" - August 22, 2013, Stitch Kingdom

​

 

[Sherry E]

Holiday Food/Dining/Treats/Candy Cane Information

General Seasonal Food/Treats/Dining Information

(2013)​

"Hit the Road for our Rocky Road Gourmet Apple this November at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 22nd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Pumpkin Beignets Are Back in New Orleans Square at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 21st, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2012)​

"A Little Something to Sweeten Your Holidays at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 11th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Make Your Own S'mores Bake at Home with this Disneyland Park Recipe" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 10th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Tamales: A Holiday Tradition at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 3rd, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Celebrate Three Kings Day at Disneyland Park with Special Menu Items" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 3rd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

(2011)​

"Make Your Own Wild Holiday Cocktails with Recipes from Trader Sam's at the Disneyland Hotel" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 13th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"If You Love the Pumpkin Beignets at Disneyland Park, How About Gingerbread?" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 5th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"A Bounty of Holiday-Themed Sweets at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 22nd, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Bake Me A Cake - Tangaroa Terrace Sweet Potato Cake at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 17th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Holiday Treats at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 9th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Holiday Tamales From the Disneyland Resort" - Disneyland News; posted on November 1st, 2011

"Fancy Pumpkin Beignets From Club 33 at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 15, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2010)​

DIS Unplugged

"Fabulous Treats for Your Disneyland Holiday" (December 16th, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Nothing Says Holiday Like a Disneyland Tamale!" (December 14th, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

​

General Dining/Food Info from other unofficial sources

"Dining in Disneyland: Pumpkin Beignets vs. Pumpkin Fritters" - Disney Food Blog; posted on Oct 17th, 2013 by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: The Holiday Specialty Caramel Apple (A.K.A. the Peppermint Beast)" - Disney Food Blog; Dec 14th, 2012, by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: Holiday Treats in Disneyland and DCA" - Disney Food Blog; December 8th, 2012, by Heather Sievers

2012 Disneyland Holiday Season Dining and Events - Disney Food Blog 2012

"Dining in Disneyland: New Holiday Desserts at Disney California Adventure!" - Disney Food Blog; November 22nd, 2011, by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: Holiday Treats" - Disney Food Blog; November 17th, 2010, by AJ. Wolfe

​

Candy Cane Info

Disneyland Resort Candy Kitchen (for specific information on seasonal treats, updated every few months) phone number: 1-714-781-0112


"Dining in Disneyland: 2013 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates!!" - Disney Food Blog; November 8th, 2013, by Heather Sievers

"2012 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates" - Disney Food Blog; November 23rd, 2012, by Heather Sievers

Candy Canes 2012 (thread started by Carolwoodpr)

amamax2's Excellent Tips for Scoring a Candy Cane!

"Dining in Disneyland: The Race for Hand Made Candy Canes" - Disney Food Blog; December 16th, 2010, by AJ Wolfe

"Dates for 2010 Disneyland Candy Canes" - Disney Food Blog; November 23rd, 2010, by AJ Wolfe

It's Candy Cane time at Disneyland dates and details (from 2010 - MousePlanet/MousePad)

"Candy Canes Help Guy Fieri Celebrate Disneyland Holidays" (December 2, 2009, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

Handmade Candy Canes (from 2009 - started by Psymonds)

​

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dining Information

Christmas Call-In Show (December 6, 2012) - The DIS Unplugged/Podcast team and I tackle all the commonly asked questions about the holiday season, including special menu items available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and much, much more!

Partial list of 2012 Christmas Meals/Menus from Disneyland Dining - posted on October 25, 2012, by JediMasterNerd

​

Thanksgiving Day Dining Information


(2013)

"Have a Tasty Thanksgiving, Disneyland Style" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 14th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


(Non-Disney Thanksgiving Dining)

Information on Knott's Berry Farm's Thanksgiving Meals


(From DISboards)

Thanksgiving at DLR - reservations open (thread started by edna mode on DISboards' Disneyland forum)


(2012)

"Thanksgiving Galore at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 26th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


(2011)

"Turkey Day Reservations Open at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 5th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer


(2010)

(From Disney Food Blog - an unofficial news source)

"Dining in Disneyland: Disneyland Hotel Thanksgiving Feast" - Disney Food Blog; posted on Nov 29th, 2010 by AJ. Wolfe


(2009)

"A Disney Family Thanksgiving Feast" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 26th, 2009 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

​

 

[Sherry E]

Holiday Shopping/Merchandise

(2013)​

Comfy, Cozy and Fashionable Winter Sweaters at Disney Parks - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 23rd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

(2012)​

Make Festive Mickey Mouse Nutcrackers Part of Your Holiday Traditions at Disney Parks - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 19th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 17th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

Merchandise at Disney California Adventure Park is Definitely One For the Road - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 20th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

Discover the Perfect Holiday Treasures at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 7th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

Special Offers on D-Tech and Ear Hat Ornaments For The Holidays at Disney Parks - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 22nd, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

(2011)​

Hanukkah-Inspired Gifts from Disney Parks - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 15th, 2011 by Erin Catalano, Merchandise Communication Specialist, Walt Disney World Resort

Decorating Disney Style for the Holidays - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 30th, 2011 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

Holiday Shopping at the Disneyland Resort - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 29th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print


Holiday Shopping Scoop at Disneyland Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 25th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

Download the Disney Theme Park Merchandise Holiday Guide - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 25th, 2011 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

Dazzling Holiday Dolls at Disneyland Park - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 10th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort



(DIS Unplugged)

Holiday Shopping at the Disneyland Resort - DIS Unplugged; posted on December 14, 2011 by Mary Jo, Contributor/Correspondent

Santa Claus - Where to Meet Him Around Disneyland Resort!​

(Thumbnails coming soon - in the meantime, see this post from the previous Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread and this post from the current Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread for details about and photos of Santa's 5 photo spots around Disneyland Resort.)

​

 

[Sherry E]

Downtown Disney/The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

The three hotels of the Disneyland Resort - The Disneyland Hotel, the Paradise Pier Hotel and the Grand Californian Hotel - get into the spirit of the holiday season too, complete with themed decorations, photo opportunities with Santa Claus and strolling carolers who entertain and delight guests. All of the hotels are within a short walking distance from the parks, so it is very easy to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Disneyland or California Adventure and enjoy the hotels' Yuletide atmosphere.

However, if you do plan to enjoy any of the Disneyland Resort hotels' holiday offerings, be aware that the hotels are not decorated by the official season start date. Typically, the hotels will receive their Christmas overlays by Thanksgiving weekend, with the Grand Californian being the first hotel to get its tree; the Disneyland Hotel being the second; and Paradise Pier being the last. If you want the full holiday experience - with the parks, hotels and Downtown Disney in full merriment - make sure to time your visit to arrive over Thanksgiving or after.


"Creating Holiday Memories at Disney Parks and at Home" (info about ordering gifts for hotel rooms) - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 21st, 2012 by Jean Volante, Manager of Dream Making, Disney Floral & Gifts/DEG

"VIDEO: Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Hotels" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 29th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Hotels" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 9th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Mele Kaliki Tiki at Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 1st, 2011 by Tom Fitzgerald, Executive VP & Senior Creative Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering




2013 Holiday Gifts for in-room celebrations at DLR hotels (Disney Floral & Gifts)

"Disneyland Hotel Christmas Amenities" - with pictures and details (November 2012 DISboards thread started by mo3bys)

Santa Claus' 2012 Meet and Greet Schedule at the 3 Hotels of the Disneyland Resort -- Information provided by Cheshirecatty

​

Downtown Disney

(2013)

"Hit the Ice This Holiday Season at the Downtown Disney Winter Village at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 25th, 2013 by John McClintock, Disney Public Relations


(2012)

"Ice Skating Rink Officially Opens in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 24th, 2012 by Janet Knox, General Manager, Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Resort

"Disneyland Resort Guests Will Soon be Ice Skating at the Downtown Disney District" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 12th, 2012 by Janet Knox, General Manager, Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Resort


(2011)

"TUBACHRISTMAS Coming to Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Celebrate the Holidays at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Downtown Disney Holiday Trees to be Donated to Local Military Families" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 6th, 2011 by Betsy Sanchez, Manager of Media Relations, Disneyland Resort




(From DIS Unplugged)

"The Secret of the Wings Ice Skating Rink Now Open at the Disneyland Resort" - DIS Unplugged; by Mary Jo, Contributor/Correspondent, November 9, 2012




Gingerbread House Holiday Workshop at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen

2013 Info on the Jazz Kitchen Holiday Gingerbread Workshop.

The dates for the 2013 Workshop are: Saturday, December 14; Sunday, December 15; Saturday, December 21; and Sunday, December 22 (12/22 is for D23 members only). Tickets go on sale/reservations can be made via the Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Facebook page on Monday, November 11, 2013.

Holiday Gingerbread Houses at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen (November 1, 2013, article for D23 members regarding event on December 22, 2013)

​

 

[Sherry E]

Trip Reports and Reviews

(These holiday travelers decked the halls, jingled the bells and walked in a winter wonderland...and now they are sharing their experiences with you!)



​

Reviews​

JediMasterNerd's review/recap of a December 2012 trip (including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) - here and here

JediMasterNerd's partial list of special menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day - here



Mickey&JoshNut's review/recap of a December 2012 trip (including Christmas) - here

​

Completed Holiday Trip Reports & Videos (alphabetized by name)



Belle Ella's "Jazz's Very Merry Holiday - December 5-8, 2010" (starts Post #114)

Belle Ella's "Jazz's Rockin' New Year - December 31, 2010 - January 6, 2011" (starts Post #399)

BensDaddy's "Disneyland and GCR Villas - Week After Thanksgiving" (2012)

danimaroo's "The Wettest, Merriest, and Happiest Birthday/First Visit Nov/Dec 2012 TR!" (*Note - lots of pictures, and review of the famous Disneyland Candy Canes!)

deejdigsdis' "It's 3 Trips In 1!" (Christmas 2009 TR begins Post #1) (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

DizNee Luver's "Hubby got a Camera & I got Christmas!!!" (December 2011) (*Note - Lots of pictures, including Holiday Tour pics and review. Christmas Fantasy Parade, etc.!)

DizNee Luver's "10 Mths of WDW Planning leads us to~~DISNEYLAND!!" (December 2012) (*Note - lots of pictures, including Christmas Fantasy Parade, the famous Disneyland candy canes, It's a Small World Holiday, etc.!)

Elk Grove Chris' "Nov 20-24" (2012) (*Note - Includes pictures from Thanksgiving Day at DLR)

Escape2Disney's "The Absolutely Amazing, Magical Christmas Adventure!" (December 2012) (*Note - includes Club 33 pictures!)

FlameGirl's "FlameGirl and family's PHOTO HEAVY 2010 Christmas marathon TR" (starts Post #64)

Mariezp's "They've Been Some Long Ones! Nov. 9-23, 2008"

Mariezp's "My Long Awaited, Long Awaited Trip Report - November 10-26, 2010"

MattsPrincess' "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Disneyland, November 18-22 2010" (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

mvf-m11c's "Holiday Trip to DLR - 11/18/10 - 11/20/10" (starts Post # 131) (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

mvf-m11c's DLR Holiday videos

mvf-m11c's "Our Annual Holiday Trip to DL 11/18/11 - 11/20/11" - begins on Page 93/Post #1385 (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

mvf-m11c's "Our 2nd Annual Early Holiday Trip to DL in November - 11/16-18/12" (2012) - begins on Page 169/Post #2528 (*Note - Lots of pictures, including great fireworks shots!)

pixleyyy's WE'RE CANCELLING CHRISTMAS (Take 2) - Dec 4-8, 2012 (*Note - WDW vet's first trip to DLR for the holidays; lots of pictures)

rentayenta's "Strike yer colors, you brazen wench! No need to expose yer superstructure! Nov 27-30, 2011"

specialks' "Great Glad Tidings Tell - Dec 7-14, 2010"

TheColtonsMom's "1129 light years to Disneyland but we got there" (Holiday 2010 report)

tksbaskets' "Our Toy Story Midway Mania Christmas Vacation 12/26/09- 1/1/2010 (2009 Holiday tour & NYE at Disney Land)" (*Note - Includes Holiday Tour pictures and review!)

tksbaskets' "Our Disneyland New Year's Park-Hopping Half-Marathon! 12/31/11-1/7/12" (*Note - Includes Holiday Tour pictures and review)
​

​

Holiday Trip Reports Currently In Progress:


luvslikepi's "Trip Report!! Updated 12/12- December 7-9 Impulsive Holiday Trip" (2012)

mariezp's "Pre-Trip Report: Turkey Day with the Mouse 2012"

Mommy2PrincessAbby's "Operation Disney in December--PTR followed by TR!" (2012)

yupikgal's "~*3 Adults Jingle Jangle Nov-30 to Dec 3*~" (2012)

​

 

[Sherry E]

Other Holiday Activities to Do/Things to See Around Southern California
(because it doesn't hurt to leave Disneyland Resort once in a while!)​

Knott's Merry Farm (in Buena Park, CA -- Orange County)

Information about Knott's Berry/Merry Farm's Thanksgiving Dining

Knott's Merry Farm Creates Holiday Memories for the Whole Family - Knott's Berry Farm website; posted August 5th, 2012

Knott's Merry Farm's home page (link will become live again soon, to reflect 2013 site)


"Christmas at Knott's Merry Farm" - blog by Wayne Toigo (DIS Unplugged), December 8, 2012

DIS Unplugged Podcast segment about Knott's Merry Farm (December 2, 2012)

"Knott's Merry Farm's Christmas Crafts Fair" - blog by Mary Jo (DIS Unplugged), December 6, 2011

​

Tournament of Roses Parade (in Pasadena) on New Year's Day

Tournament of Roses Parade -- Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Float Decorating and Viewing (Pre-Parade) – December 27 – December 31, 2013



"Destination: Cars Land Makes its Rose Parade Debut" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 2nd, 2013 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

"Rose Parade Fans Floored by Destination: Cars Land Float" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 1st, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Destination: 124th Rose Parade" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 31st, 2012 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

"The Cars Land Rose Parade Float is Lookin Good!" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 28th, 2012 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations



(From DIS Unplugged)

DIS Unplugged Podcast segment with Mary Jo discussing the Rose Parade -- November 7, 2013

"What Does it Take to Bring Cars Land to Life as a Rose Parade Float?" - DIS Unplugged; by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent, December 30, 2012

​

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood's Grinchmas - (link to become active with 2013 info soon)

CityRockin Holidays at Universal CityWalk (site is not updated with 2013 info yet)

​

Other Holiday Activities Around Southern California

"Local Holiday Events to Compliment Your Disneyland Vacation - Part 1" - blog by Nancy Johnson (DIS Unplugged), December 7, 2011

"Local Holiday Events to Compliment Your Disneyland Vacation - Part 2" - blog by Nancy Johnson (DIS Unplugged), December 8, 2011




Beverly Center (shopping center near Beverly Hills)

Beverly Center 2013 Holidays (including Ice Palace, Santa, etc.) –- Thursday, November 7, 2013 – Tuesday, December 24, 2013




Beverly Hills

Holidays in Beverly Hills –- Saturday, November 23, 2013 – Monday, January 6, 2014

Joy to the Hills 2013 (including snowfall, Santa, carolers, ice skating, Menorah lighting, holiday dining, shopping, etc.) – Dates will vary for different events




Chill (at the Queen Mary)

Queen Mary - Chill -- "SoCal's only frozen holiday adventure" -- Friday, November 22, 2013 - Sunday, January 5, 2014



Christmas Train at Irvine Park Railroad (located in Irvine, California -- in Orange County)

The Christmas Train takes place on multiple nights between Friday, November 29, 2013 - Monday, December 23, 2013. Information on this event can be found here.



(The Original) Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax (historical shopping/dining area next door to The Grove)

Farmers Market 2013 Calendar of Events

Farmers Market Hanukkah Celebration -- Sunday, December 1, 2013 (Celebrate Hanukkah with the building of giant Lego menorah, live music, crafts and a special menorah lighting ceremony)

Farmers Market Holiday Festivities –- Friday, December 20, 2013 – Tuesday, December 24, 2013 (music, arts & crafts, variety shows, strolling carolers, etc. - decorations go up in late November)




The Grove (shopping center next to the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles)

American Girl Place at The Grove in Los Angeles (there are many holiday activities and events held at this location in both November and December -- see website for details)

A Hollywood Christmas at The Grove (Christmas tree lighting; live performances; fireworks, snowfall, etc.) – Sunday, November 17, 2013

Celebrate the Season at The Grove -- Monday, November 18, 2013 - Tuesday, December 24, 2013 (certain events end after 12/24; decorations usually stay up until early January)




Hollywood Christmas Parade -- Sunday, December 1, 2013

http://thehollywoodchristmasparade.org/




Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village (in Downtown Anaheim -- Orange County, CA)

Event takes place on Saturday, December 7, 2013, from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Information is here.

​

 

[mellers]

subbing

 

[tksbaskets]

I'm 'in'!! HO HO HO our Superthread #3 is a go!

 

[pixleyyy]

I'm in on the new thread!

I'd love to have my trip report listed. I've got plenty of pictures on it including holiday decor, IASWH, HMH, etc. At this point it's not complete, as I'm posting a little at a time. Here's the link:
pixleyyy's WE'RE CANCELLING CHRISTMAS (Take 2) - Dec 4-8, 2012

 

[Sherry E]

subbing

Yay, mellers!

You're the first one to post (I'm not counting myself, of course!)! Welcome aboard!

I'm 'in'!! HO HO HO our Superthread #3 is a go!

TK -

I'm so glad you hopped on board early on! I thought that this might be a situation like what happened with the Halloween Superthread, when I had to make the switch from the old thread to the new thread and you didn't realize there was a new Halloween thread for quite a while! At least you got to this thread right at the beginning so you didn't miss anything!

Hopefully, by the time you get back from WDW, I will have turned this first page into some semblance of order and organization - or at least, it will be on the right track!

I'm in on the new thread!

I'd love to have my trip report listed. I've got plenty of pictures on it including holiday decor, IASWH, HMH, etc. At this point it's not complete, as I'm posting a little at a time. Here's the link:
pixleyyy's WE'RE CANCELLING CHRISTMAS (Take 2) - Dec 4-8, 2012

pixleyyy -

Welcome to the new home!

In the previous Superthread, I was mainly just listing the completed TR's - and only certain ones. For this new thread, in the designated post that I reserved above for TR's and other things I'll have a little sub-category for the "in-progress" TR's, so I'll add yours to that!

There are actually a LOT of current holiday TR's in progress in the TR section, and many of them are or will be photo-heavy (including my own, "Candlelight & Cannonballs," the link to which is in my signature below).

Laurie/DizNee Luver has a holiday TR in progress, and I know it will be chock full o' photos.

Bret/mvf-m11c has a holiday TR in progress, and he always has tons of photos - including some amazing holiday fireworks photos among many other things!

So the readers will have a lot of TR material to choose from, just from this year's holiday season alone!

 

[Sherry E]

Okey dokey...

As the 'construction' continues on our new home, I will continue to jump around and work on assembling the information to go in the various posts above (on Page 1, in other words). I will probably jump around between posts over the course of the coming days and weeks, so I may not work on them in the order in which they are currently set up. If things look a little screwy and backwards for a while, you'll know why!

For example, I've been working on the specific Trip Report post (which is Post #8 on Page 1), gathering links and titles for various DIS'ers' TR's. I've got a section for completed Trip Reports and one for the In-Progress TR's. I've included many of the DIS'ers who have posted in the Superthread in that post. Check to see if I added your TR there!

 

[mvf-m11c]

Nice to see the 3rd Christmas Superthread up and the 2nd one that you started Sherry. I remember a couple of years ago when you started the 2nd Christmas Superthread when I was in WDW during the Holiday season.

For a start with pictures for the new Superthread, here are pictures of "Believe...In Holiday Magic" fireworks from my trip last month.

 

[StyledSugar]

Beautiful pictures mvf!! Wow!! Those are definitely getting me excited about our trip on the 24th.

We're all packed, house is cleaned (HATE coming home from a vacation to a dirty house -- am I the only one? lol) and kids are beyond excited! Our vacation starts a day early as we are staying at my parents the night before we leave to have a Pre-Christmas Eve celebration. Then we will be up bright and early for our 6:30am flight. Ugh! That is the only thing I am dreading about the vacation. Getting up at 2:30am is not at the top of my favorite things to do list. lol Hopefully we will get some sleep on one of the THREE flights we need to take (hate Delta airlines for screwing up our flights and changing things two WEEKS before we leave!!). Once we are in California all will be forgotten though I'm sure. We get into SNA at 5pm I believe, then off to the PPH and then to the park for the evening. No specific plans that evening, just going to wing it and enjoy Christmas Eve int he park. Can't wait!! This will be our first Christmas vacation away as a family so while it will be different than the big family get togethers we are used to during this time of the year, I'm sure we will be fine and enjoy our time with just the four of us.

Thanks to everyone in the Christmas thread for all of the help!! I'll be sure to post a trip report upon our return!!

 

[TotalDreamer]

Getting everything ready to leave tomorrow afternoon - I'm so excited!

 

[swooshbear]

I was able to see the CP for the very first time and was fortunate to attend the very last show on the 20th with John Stamos. I captured video of the performance and posted it to YouTube here: http://youtu.be/ZlghoS7dplg

The day after, we stood in line for Candy Canes and there was some confusion at the gates because there was Magic Mornings at both parks. We were directed to the farthest left gate and were told we would be in by 7:30 or 7:45. There were about 10 of us lined up, all wanting Candy Canes, and we were doubtful we would get one because of all of the Magic Morning people. The MM people were let in promptly at 7 and we could see some of them running, which we were assuming to get the wristbands. A few minutes later, a CM decided to give us some holiday magic and also let us in early. We went straight to Candy Palace and there were only a handful of people in line. Mission accomplished and the Candy Cane is definitely unlike any other I've ever had.

 

[JediMasterNerd]

Wow, wow, wow! All I can say to everyone who posted in the other Superthread, esp Sherry, is THANKS!!! We just completed our trip and it was amazing. We (7 of us) were in the parks Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the day after Christmas going on rides and expected HUGE crowds, but they did not come. It was BUSY, but not at all what any of us expected. Thursday, on the other hand (two days after Christmas), the park seemed packed and there were only 3 of us! Perhaps it was the weather forecast with expected rain several of the days but it only rained a little on Monday (Christmas Eve) morning and the rest of the trip the weather was fantastic!

Now, to add to the thread...

Highlights:

Holiday Tour... Honestly, the tour itself (the information provided) is very good, but not fantastic (imo) but the other perks make up for it to make this a major highlight. Some of the info/stories is interesting - she even talked about the candy canes. Visited both parks and heard stories not only about Disneyland but different cultures and how the holidays are celebrated/etc. Got to snack on either an Egg Nog or Peppermint Marshmellow (my son and I did Peppermint and it was DELICIOUS) and the timing within the tour was good. Getting walk-on access to HMH and IASWH was great, no waiting, just walk-in and go. Totally worth it and both rides were amazing, love the way they re-did IASW for the holidays... Hot chocolate in a souvenir cup was very tasty and appreciated by all (and if bought outside the tour is a $10-15 purchase) along with the gingerbread... But the creme de la creme was when we walked to the parade area with everyone sitting around and they open up a rope for us to cross the empty street to our our cushioned seats facing It's a Small World Holiday. It's a priceless moment when your 73-year old mom comments on how she feels like such a VIP. For $55 after the AAA discount I would absolutely do this any time I visited the park for the holidays.

Decorations... Obviuously this is a big reason to visit. Christmas Trees, wreaths, decorations everywhere. Very beautiful... I must say it is A LOT better to view the decorations at night when everything is lit up but are still nice during the day.

Characters... Thankfully my DS8 still loves the characters and it was great to see so many characters out there decked out in holiday gear. I will add all of the Santas they have.

Photopass Plus... While this is not a Christmas item I know some were on the fence about it and want to say that I'm glad I did it. When we visited 3 years ago we did 3 character dining experiences but didn't want to purchase 3 sets of pictures at $30-40 a pop. This time we only did 2 character dining experiences, but we took both sets of pictures and that alone paid for the photo pass plus (pre-ordered at $70). But you also get the CD and the ride pictures included as well. Totally worth it and I'm looking forward to getting in there and seeing how everything turned out.

Fireworks... Amazing. Saw them multiple times from different locations. The best for us was with Fantasmic! - see below for comments. Never saw them from the castle area, but didn't feel the need to.

World of Color... It was great to see Prep and Landing in there, adds some nice Christmas cheer to the show and the show was great (first time seeing it). Would be nice to have the show be even more customized for Christmas but was great nonetheless.

Dessert Dining for Fantasmic!... Again, not a Christmas item but it was part of our overall experience and it was great. I did this with my son and mom and it I lined up at about 7:45pm to reserve seats. Due to my DS8 the CM recommended to take the last remaining front row seats off to the far left. They would work well for F! but they would block the fireworks and they would try to move us to see them. Showed up 5 mins before show time and saw everyone sitting around having waited for a long time to get close-up seats and took our chairs and enjoyed the show. The CM serving us was on top of everything as I wanted to start with a soft drink but wanted a hot chocolate to end the show and she was there. Then they did move us to great seats for the fireworks show and brought my son and I another hot chocolate for the fireworks. Snow fell, we got the full experience and my mom again felt like a VIP. I really thought we were served well and while I didn't think the CM could accept tips I asked anyway and was surprised to find they were allowed to accept tips - and she got one

Shopping... Love all the ornaments you could buy, they are great.... China Closet for the win! I assume they are only out at Christmastime but since I've never visited the store otherwise I couldn't say. Note that Shopping is also a low-point (below).


Low-points: - with every trip something must go wrong...

Dinner... Christmas Eve dinner at Blue Bayou for a party of 7... The food was great the problem - getting a table. We had reservations at 8pm. At 8:45 we were still waiting for a table and my dad was steaming at this point (not very patient and was in the restaurant business his whole life) and had complained several times. We finally got a table - the problem they were having was seating a party of 7. They did appease us with 6 magical any ride fast passes (good on any ride in Disneyland even if they don't accept fast passes, except Matterhorn for some reason, for up to 6 people each).

Christmas Eve Goodnight... CANCELLED!!!!! A couple of characters were milling around the front of Disneyland in their night-time outfits so I asked a CM if they had already said Goodnight and she said they weren't doing the Christmas Eve Goodnight this year and recommended that if we were disappointed we should complain @ City Hall in hopes it'll return next year (I got the impresstion she and most CM's were not happy it was gone). Never made it to CH to complain, anyway to complain to them online or through email??

Shopping... Yes, this was a high-point but also a low-point. how can they sell out of their 2012 gear BEFORE CHRISTMAS?!?!?! I REALLY wanted one of those Merriest Place on Earth shirts and they were NO WHERE. They lost a sale from me. Still bought my son a generic Disney shirt, still bought the ornaments. Would have bought more items though.


Items we missed out on: - either couldn't fit it in or just totally forgot about them until too late...
Jingle Jangle Jamboree - paid it a visit after the holidays. Seemed nicely setup. Characters were still there but $6 to decorate a cookie?!?! Really?? I assume it was more festive before the holidays but not sure.

Mad Tea Party - Disappointed we missed this. Oh well.

Candy Canes - We missed them on Christmas Eve (didn't think about looking into it).

Well, that's all I can think of for now. Haven't sorted through all the pics yet but wanted to come here and say THANKS to everyone who has contributed and hope you've had a Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year!

J.

 

[mysteriouspnai]

Shopping... Yes, this was a high-point but also a low-point. how can they sell out of their 2012 gear BEFORE CHRISTMAS?!?!?! I REALLY wanted one of those Merriest Place on Earth shirts and they were NO WHERE. They lost a sale from me. Still bought my son a generic Disney shirt, still bought the ornaments. Would have bought more items though.

Seriously, this was pretty frustrating to me too. DBF and I visited Dec 9-11 and no 2012 ornaments were to be found. 2013 merch was already starting to crowd in. Really now? If we visit in 2012, we want a 2012 ornament, not a 2013 one. We asked a CM how long they keep it in stock for and she said that they keep ordering shipments throughout the year until they run out. What does that even mean??! How can you run out of merch if you keep ordering it??! Keep the merch in stock until the last day of 2012 or at LEAST until Christmas. Ugh.