Disneyland in October: Crowds, Weather, Events
Headed to Disneyland in October?
October can be a great time to visit Disneyland – school’s in session, the temperature’s comfortable, and Halloween is in the air!
The truth is, there’s no real “best” time to head to Disneyland but if you ARE looking for a good one, October’s a pretty sweet pick. Here’s what you need to know about heading to Disneyland in October.
Disneyland Weather in October
October brings a festive atmosphere to Disneyland, complemented by mild and inviting weather.
The climate in October is often characterized by moderate daytime temperatures, typically ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s°F (around 22°C to 29°C). These conditions make it perfect for exploring the park from morning till night. Evenings tend to be cooler, especially towards the end of the month, so bringing a light jacket for nighttime parades and shows is advisable.
October sits at the cusp of fall in California, bringing slightly cooler temperatures that are a welcome break from the summer’s peak heat. This makes it an ideal time to enjoy both the decorated park and its many outdoor attractions comfortably.
What to Wear in October
October’s unpredictable weather at Disneyland makes choosing the right attire essential for comfort. Unlike the more consistent patterns of summer or winter, October can offer a mix of warm days and notably cooler mornings and evenings.
Given the mild but variable temperatures, layering is key to ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the day (per usual). Here’s what I recommend packing for your Disneyland adventure in October:
- A light jacket or sweater: Essential for the cooler mornings and evenings as the temperature can drop, especially after sunset.
- Comfortable, breathable pants: While shorts are still an option during the day, longer pants are advisable for staying comfortable in the cooler evening air.
- T-shirts: Include both long and short-sleeved options to adjust easily to changing temperatures.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be on your feet most of the day, so comfortable footwear is crucial.
- Sun protection: Despite the cooler weather, sunny days are common, making sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats must-haves to protect against UV rays during peak daytime hours.
This attire will help you navigate the fluctuating October weather comfortably, whether you’re spinning on teacups or watching fireworks under the night sky.
Disneyland Crowds in October
October can be a strategic time to visit Disneyland, with planning centered around the park’s event calendar.
This month lies after the summer vacation rush and before the holiday season, typically resulting in moderate crowd levels, especially on weekdays. Most schools are in session, which often leads to lighter crowds from Monday through Friday, offering shorter lines and reduced waiting times for popular attractions.
However, October has its unique crowd factors to consider:
- Halloween Time at Disneyland: This event runs throughout October and features special decorations, themed attractions, and entertainment, attracting both locals and tourists.
- Mickey’s Halloween Party: These special ticketed events on select evenings can increase park attendance and alter the typical crowd patterns. Attendees often arrive early, swelling the daytime crowds even on weekdays.
Predicting the exact crowd sizes can always be tricky. It’s beneficial to utilize real-time crowd tracking apps and to check recent visitor experiences to get a better sense of what to expect during your visit.
Disneyland Events in October
Halloween at Disneyland
Halloween at Disneyland runs throughout October, culminating on October 31st. The park features elaborate Halloween decorations, themed ride overlays (like the Haunted Mansion), and special entertainment, making it a highly popular seasonal event. Guests can also enjoy Halloween-specific food items.
Plaza de la Familia
Plaza de la Familia is a Día de los Muertos celebration at California Adventure, inspired by Coco. The event includes a musical performance featuring songs from the film, a photo opportunity with the character Miguel, a memory wall, live mariachi music, and themed culinary offerings.
Oogie Boogie Bash at California Adventure
The Oogie Boogie Bash is an annual ticketed Halloween party at Disney’s California Adventure. The event features Halloween-themed entertainment, costume opportunities for guests, character meet and greets, and themed party zones.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland in October
Opt for Weekdays
Visiting Disneyland from Monday through Thursday in October can enhance your experience. These days typically see fewer visitors as local schools are in session, resulting in shorter lines and less crowded attractions.
Plan for Weather
The weather in Southern California in October can be variable, with warm afternoons but cooler mornings and evenings. Dressing in layers will allow you to adjust comfortably as the temperature changes throughout the day. And ALWAYS wear sunscreen!
Embrace Halloween
October hosts unique events at Disneyland, such as Halloween celebrations and the Oogie Boogie Bash. These events offer exclusive entertainment, special decorations, and unique experiences that aren’t available during other times of the year.
Enjoy Seasonal Offerings
Take advantage of the unique seasonal offerings available in October, such as exclusive Halloween-themed treats and merchandise. These limited-time offerings are a great way to enjoy the festive spirit of the park, providing unique souvenirs and culinary delights that celebrate the season.
Catch the Nighttime Shows
Disneyland’s nighttime shows, including fireworks and parades, are particularly spectacular during the Halloween season. These events are crowd favorites, so plan to secure a good viewing spot well in advance of the showtimes.
Arrive Early
Getting to the park early can make a significant difference in your day. Early arrival often means shorter lines for popular attractions and a quieter atmosphere as you explore the park. This head start can lead to accomplishing more before the crowds peak, especially for high-demand rides and attractions.
Pack Essentials
Prepare a day pack with all your essentials to keep your visit smooth and enjoyable. Include items like water bottles to stay hydrated, snacks to keep energy levels up, a portable charger for your devices, and extra clothing for changing weather conditions. Comfort and preparation are key to enjoying a full day at the park without interruptions.
Should I Visit Disneyland in October?
You don’t always get to pick the best time for YOU to visit Disneyland, and if October is your only time… it’s a GREAT ONE!
However, if you have a bit more flexibility in your schedule, you might want to weigh the actual pros and cons – here’s what you should think about:
Pros
- Lower Crowds: October is strategically positioned after the summer vacation rush and before the holiday season kicks into full gear. With most schools in session, the park experiences fewer local visitors during weekdays, leading to shorter lines and less crowded attractions.
- Mild Weather: The mild temperatures during the day are perfect for spending extended periods outdoors without the discomfort of summer heat. Cooler evenings add to the festive atmosphere, especially suitable for nighttime shows and events.
- Halloween Festivities: Disneyland is renowned for its seasonal decorations and themed events, and October features the park fully decked out for Halloween. This includes unique ride overlays, special entertainment, and themed dining experiences that aren’t available at other times of the year.
- Special Events and Entertainment: Events like the Oogie Boogie Bash and other Halloween-themed activities provide unique entertainment options that can only be experienced in October. These include exclusive parades, shows, and character greetings, enhancing the festive spirit.
- Themed Overlays on Attractions: Several popular attractions at Disneyland receive special overlays during the Halloween season, such as the Haunted Mansion turning into Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain becoming Ghost Galaxy.
Cons
- Special Event Closures: During October, certain areas of the park might close earlier than usual to accommodate special ticketed events like the Oogie Boogie Bash. Regular visitors who do not have tickets to these events may find their access to certain attractions or areas limited on event days.
- Higher Prices for Special Events:Ticket prices for special events such as the Oogie Boogie Bash are typically higher than regular park admission. This can increase the overall cost of a Disneyland visit in October, especially for families or groups wanting to experience these unique festivities.
- Crowds During Special Events: While general crowd levels might be lower, special events can draw significant numbers of visitors, particularly local residents and annual pass holders. These events can lead to higher-than-expected crowds, especially during evenings and weekends.
- Cooler Evenings: As the month progresses, evenings in October can become quite cool, which might be uncomfortable for visitors who are not prepared for the temperature drop. This can particularly impact enjoyment of nighttime events or shows.
- Limited Ride Availability: With Halloween-themed overlays on popular rides like Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain, wait times for these attractions can be longer than usual. Additionally, regular maintenance may also affect ride availability.
- Potential for Early Sunset: As the month moves forward, daylight hours decrease, leading to earlier sunsets. This reduces the daytime hours available for enjoying the park in natural light, which might affect planning, especially for visitors who prefer daytime activities.
- Halloween Focus: The extensive focus on Halloween-themed attractions and events might not appeal to all visitors, especially those looking for a more traditional Disneyland experience or those visiting with very young children who might find some themes too intense.
Final Thoughts: Disneyland in October
The truth is, October is an excellent month to visit.
The weather is typically mild and enjoyable, and weekdays usually have smaller crowds since local schools are in session, making it easier to explore and enjoy the park’s offerings.
Not to mention the Halloween-themed decorations and special events like the Oogie Boogie Bash add unique charm and excitement to the experience.
