Disneyland in December: Crowds, Weather, Events
Disneyland in December is magical, but is it the right move for you?
December is a busy time to visit Disneyland, but it’s also EXTRA magical. While the temperature’s a little cooler, the overall atmosphere is unmistakable. This is probably one of the most magical, holiday-focused places out there.
So, let’s dig into what December looks like at Disneyland.
Disneyland Weather in December
December at Disneyland offers a distinctly festive and cozy atmosphere.
During this month, the weather generally features mild to cool temperatures, ranging from the low 50s to the low 70s°F (about 11°C to 22°C). This makes for a comfortable environment for enjoying the park, albeit with a sweater or light jacket, especially during the evenings and early mornings.
While December does mark the transition into the colder part of the year in California, the winters are relatively mild, and while there may be some rainy days, clear and crisp days are more common. This weather is ideal for strolling through the festively decorated park and sipping on hot cocoa while watching parades and shows.
As December is part of the wet season in California, it’s wise to check the weather forecast before your trip and prepare for potential rain with appropriate clothing and gear. Despite the possibility of rain, Disneyland in December is magical, especially with the holiday decorations and themed events that add to the cheerful spirit.
What to Wear in December
Packing for Disneyland in December can be slightly tricky due to the variability in Southern California’s winter weather. While the climate is generally milder compared to many other places during winter, preparing for a range of temperatures will ensure you’re comfortable throughout your visit.
Given the cooler weather, especially in the mornings and evenings, layering is key. Here’s what I typically recommend packing for a December trip to Disneyland:
- A medium-weight jacket or a cozy sweater
- Comfortable, breathable pants or jeans
- Layered tops, consider packing both long-sleeved and short-sleeved T-shirts
- Durable, comfortable shoes
- Accessories for warmth and sun protection
Always check the weather forecast close to your trip date and adjust your packing list if necessary. Even in winter, the sun at Disneyland can be deceptively strong, so protective items like sunscreen and sunglasses are must-haves in your park pack.
Disneyland Crowds in December
December is a unique month to visit Disneyland, with crowd levels varying significantly throughout the month.
Early December is generally less crowded, as many visitors delay their trips until closer to the holidays. This period, right after Thanksgiving and before the schools break for winter vacation, can be an excellent time to enjoy the park with fewer visitors. Weekdays (Monday through Thursday) are especially good for avoiding large crowds, allowing for shorter lines and more relaxed exploration of the attractions.
However, as the month progresses and the holiday season peaks, Disneyland becomes one of the hottest destinations for festive celebrations. The weeks leading up to and following Christmas often see some of the highest crowd levels of the year. During this time, the park is exceptionally busy, with long wait times for popular rides and attractions.
Special events in December, such as holiday parades and themed nights, can also draw larger crowds. It’s wise to check Disneyland’s event calendar when planning your visit to anticipate any potential increase in crowd sizes.
To best navigate the crowds, consider using real-time crowd tracking apps and take advantage of Disneyland’s FastPass system to minimize waiting times. Preparing for varying crowd sizes with a flexible itinerary can help ensure a more enjoyable visit during the bustling holiday season at Disneyland.
Disneyland Events in December
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
The “A Christmas Fantasy” parade is a seasonal fixture at Disneyland, running along the traditional parade route from “it’s a small world” to Main Street, U.S.A. The parade features a collection of Disney characters and holiday figures such as snowmen, gingerbread men, reindeer, and Santa Claus.
Believe… in Holiday Magic Fireworks
The “Believe… in Holiday Magic” fireworks display at Disneyland is themed specifically for the holiday season. This fireworks show is known for its impressive pyrotechnics that light up the sky, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the park during the evening.
Holiday Season Kickoff
Disneyland’s holiday season this year begins on November 15, 2024. From this date, visitors can experience the park decked out in festive decorations and a variety of holiday-themed offerings, transforming Disneyland into a vibrant winter wonderland through December.
Christmas at Disneyland
Disneyland transforms two classic rides for the holiday season: It’s A Small World lights up with thousands of twinkling lights and switches its tune to a festive Jingle Bells melody. The Haunted Mansion takes on a Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas theme, earning praise as the Haunted Mansion Holiday, a favorite for many (me included!).
The festive spirit extends across Disneyland and California Adventure. Each park showcases a massive, intricately decorated Christmas tree and Sleeping Beauty’s Castle dazzles with icicles and lights. Cars Land impresses with detailed decorations inspired by the “Cars” movies.
At California Adventure, the Festival of the Holidays offers a global tasting experience with food kiosks featuring international holiday dishes. Additionally, ¡Viva Navidad! brings a Latin American flair with a lively street parade and unique character interactions, enhancing the holiday cheer.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland in December
Visit During Weekdays to Avoid Crowds
To avoid the larger crowds that flock to Disneyland closer to the holidays and on weekends, plan your visit during weekdays early in December.
Schools are still in session (particularly at the beginning of the month), which generally means fewer local visitors and shorter lines for attractions, making it easier to experience more of the park.
Dress in Layers
The weather in Southern California during December can be unpredictable, with cooler mornings and evenings but potentially warm afternoons. By dressing in layers, you can adjust your comfort level throughout the day without returning to your hotel or carrying too much around the park. Think light sweaters, a warm jacket, and comfortable, breathable clothing.
Prepare for Rain
December falls within Southern California’s rainy season, so it’s wise to be prepared for a bit of wet weather. Pack a waterproof or water-resistant jacket, and consider waterproof shoes to keep your feet dry. It’s also handy to have an umbrella or buy a poncho at the park if a shower starts unexpectedly.
Experience Holiday Attractions
Make sure to visit the special holiday-themed versions of It’s A Small World and the Haunted Mansion. These rides receive a festive makeover that is not to be missed and are a highlight for many visitors during the holiday season. Since these attractions are particularly popular, consider visiting them early in the day to reduce wait times.
Arrive Early
Getting to the park before it opens can significantly improve your experience, especially during the busy holiday season. Early arrival lets you enjoy popular rides with shorter wait times before the park gets crowded and can help you secure better viewing spots for parades and shows.
Stay Hydrated and Protected
Despite the cooler weather, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a refillable water bottle, which you can fill at various water stations around the park. And although it may seem overcast or cool, the sun in Southern California can still be strong. Apply sunscreen in the morning and consider wearing a hat and sunglasses for additional protection.
Should I Visit Disneyland in December?
December is a truly magical time to visit Disneyland.
The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and special holiday-themed attractions like It’s A Small World Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Plus the cooler weather can make for a more comfortable visit compared to the hot summer months.
If your considering a December visit, these are the pros and cons:
Pros
- Festive Atmosphere: Disneyland transforms into a magical winter wonderland in December, complete with holiday decorations, themed parades, and special events. The festive atmosphere is unparalleled, making it a special time to experience the park’s seasonal charm.
- Holiday-Themed Attractions: Certain rides like It’s A Small World and the Haunted Mansion receive festive makeovers, offering unique versions that are only available during the holiday season. These special attractions add an extra layer of excitement to the visit.
- Cooler Weather: Unlike the often intense heat of summer months, December brings cooler temperatures to Southern California, making it more comfortable to explore the park all day without the discomfort of sweltering heat.
- Seasonal Treats and Merchandise: The holiday season offers special treats and merchandise that are only available at this time of year. From limited-edition holiday snacks to exclusive Christmas-themed merchandise, December is a great time for visitors who enjoy unique dining and shopping experiences.
- Less Crowded Early in the Month: Early December can be less crowded compared to the peak times later in the month. This period offers an opportunity to enjoy the holiday offerings with relatively lower crowd levels, especially on weekdays.
- Enhanced Nighttime Experience: With earlier sunsets, visitors in December can enjoy the illuminated beauty of Disneyland’s holiday lights and decorations for longer periods in the evening, enhancing the magical nighttime experience of the park.
Cons
- Higher Crowds As Christmas Approaches: As December progresses and schools go on break, Disneyland sees a significant increase in visitor numbers. The closer it gets to Christmas and New Year, the more crowded the park becomes, which can lead to longer wait times for rides and attractions.
- Cooler and Unpredictable Weather: Although the cooler weather can be a relief from the heat, it can also be unpredictable. Rain is more common in December, which can disrupt plans and make some parts of the park less enjoyable, especially if you’re not prepared for wet conditions.
- Shorter Daylight Hours: December days are shorter, meaning less daylight for enjoying the park. This can be a drawback for those who prefer to experience attractions and take photos in natural light.
- Holiday Event Premium Pricing: Disneyland often implements premium pricing during the holiday season due to the high demand. This means that tickets, food, and merchandise can be more expensive compared to other times of the year.
- Early Closures for Special Events: Disneyland sometimes closes early to the general public during special ticketed events like holiday parties. If you don’t have tickets to these events, your time in the park could be unexpectedly shortened.
- Overwhelming for First-Timers: For those visiting Disneyland for the first time, the combination of high crowds, extensive decorations, and ongoing events can be overwhelming, making it difficult to see everything or get the full experience without feeling rushed.
Final Thoughts: Disneyland in December
Disneyland in December is truly magical. But it brings challenges.
The closer you get to Christmas and New Year, the more crowded the park becomes. Prices also tend to be higher during this peak season, and there might be unexpected early closures for special events.
If you can visit early in the month or choose weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds, and don’t mind the potential for cooler, possibly rainy weather, December can offer a festive and enjoyable experience with unique seasonal offerings.
