Disneyland in April: Crowds, Weather, Events
Curious about visiting Disneyland in April?
There’s no right or wrong time to visit this magical place, but April can be a great pick based on the mild weather and lower crowd levels. While you could find yourself head-to-head with the tail end of spring breakers if you don’t plan correctly, with good planning you can have a very pleasant visit.
Here’s everything you need to know about Disneyland in April:
Disneyland Weather in April
April brings a delightful climate to Disneyland, ideal for visitors who enjoy mild weather.
During this month, the weather at Disneyland typically features mild daytime temperatures ranging from the high 60s to mid-70s°F (around 20°C to 24°C). This makes for a very pleasant environment to explore the park from morning till night.
Evenings can be slightly cooler, so I often recommend carrying a light jacket might be a good idea for enjoying late-night shows or rides. Ultimately, April is a fantastic time to visit as it captures the essence of spring in Southern California.
The mornings can be fresh, and as the day progresses, the warmth of the sun makes it perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions without the peak summer crowds.
What to Wear in April
April in Disneyland calls for thoughtful packing, especially if you’re used to a significantly different climate. The weather this time of year is generally pleasant, but it bridges the gap between the cooler winter months and the warmer summer season.
Given the lovely daytime temperatures with cooler mornings and evenings in April, here’s what I recommend bringing along:
- A light jacket or sweater: Essential for those cooler morning and evening hours when the temperature dips.
- Comfortable, breathable pants: Opt for longer pants that offer comfort and breathability during your park adventures.
- T-shirts: Include both long-sleeved and short-sleeved options to adjust easily as temperatures change throughout the day.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be on your feet most of the day, so comfortable footwear is a must.
- Sun protection is key, regardless of the season: Make sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from the sun during those brighter, midday hours.
Disneyland Crowds in April
April can be a strategic month to visit Disneyland, especially if you’re looking to avoid the heaviest crowds.
Falling after the rush of spring break but before the onset of summer vacation, April typically sees moderately sized crowds, with significantly lighter attendance on weekdays. This is largely because most schools are still in session, which means visiting from Monday through Thursday during the day could offer you shorter queues and more relaxed touring of the park.
Of course, always check the park’s calendar for any scheduled special events or entertainment that might affect crowd sizes.
Disneyland Events in April
Pixar Fest
Running from April 26th to August 4th, 2024, at Disneyland, Pixar Fest celebrates Pixar films with a new daytime parade, food marketplaces, and a DJ dance party in the Hollywood Backlot. The event highlights characters from Toy Story, Up!, Coco, Turning Red, and Elemental.
Season of the Force
Starting April 5th, 2024, Season of the Force at Disneyland features new Star Tours scenes with Ahsoka, Andor, and the Mandalorian, along with the return of Hyperspace Mountain. Additional offerings include themed fireworks from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and exclusive themed food and merchandise. The event runs until June 2nd, 2024.
Dapper Day
On April 7th, 2024, Dapper Day at Disneyland celebrates vintage style, coinciding with the Dapper Day Expo at the Disneyland Hotel on April 6th and 7th. Attendees can receive discounted hotel rates at Disney properties.
Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite
Held on April 16, 18, 23, 25, and 30 during the Season of the Force, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite features themed entertainment and activities celebrating the Star Wars universe at Disneyland Park.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland in April
Opt for Weekdays
To make the most of your Disneyland visit in April, aim to go from Tuesday through Friday. During these weekdays, fewer locals and tourists are likely to be present as most schools remain in session.
This timing typically results in significantly shorter wait times for attractions and a more relaxed park atmosphere, making it easier to experience multiple attractions without the rush.
Plan for Weather
April weather in Southern California is variable, with cool mornings and evenings complemented by warmer afternoons. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt comfortably throughout the day.
Essential items include a lightweight jacket and breathable clothes. Always apply sunscreen as part of your morning routine, and consider packing a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun during peak hours, even on overcast days.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when spending extended periods outdoors. Disneyland has several water stations where you can refill a water bottle. Carrying a reusable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated but is also environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Arrive Early
Arriving at Disneyland early can significantly enhance your experience. Being there at opening time often allows you to enjoy popular rides with minimal waiting. Early mornings at Disneyland are magical, with fewer crowds and a fresh atmosphere, offering you the opportunity to take beautiful photos and enjoy quieter moments before the park gets busier.
Book Dining in Advance
Disneyland’s restaurants can get very crowded, especially during midday. To avoid long waiting times and ensure you have a spot at your preferred dining venues, make reservations well in advance. This is especially useful during busier days or when dining options are limited due to special events.
Pack Light and Wisely
While it’s essential to be prepared, overpacking can weigh you down. Opt for a comfortable, compact backpack or bag filled with essentials like snacks, a first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and portable chargers for your devices. Keeping your belongings light and organized will make navigating the park easier and more enjoyable.
Be Flexible
Even with meticulous planning, unexpected changes such as weather shifts or ride closures can occur. Having a flexible attitude allows you to adapt your plans smoothly. If an attraction is temporarily unavailable, take the opportunity to explore other areas or enjoy lesser-known attractions. Flexibility can lead to discovering new favorite spots or experiences in the park.
Should I Visit Disneyland in April?
If you’re traveling from afar, your visit to Disneyland might not always align perfectly with the most optimal times due to various scheduling constraints. With this in mind, it’s important to consider the specific characteristics of visiting in April.
The reality is, April can be a good month to plan a trip to Disneyland.
The weather is typically mild and pleasant, which is perfect for spending extended periods outdoors exploring the attractions. The crowd levels are generally more manageable, especially on weekdays while schools are still in session, allowing for a smoother and more enjoyable park experience.
Pros
- Lower Crowds: April is a sweet spot for visiting Disneyland as it falls after the spring break rush and before the summer vacation crowd peaks. This timing results in generally lower crowd levels, especially on weekdays, because most schools are still in session, which reduces the number of local families and school groups at the park.
- Extended Daylight Hours: As the days begin to lengthen in April, you’ll enjoy more daylight during your visit to Disneyland. This increase in daylight hours allows for more time to explore and enjoy the park’s attractions and entertainment in natural light, enhancing your overall experience.
- Mild Weather: April typically features mild weather at Disneyland, with comfortable temperatures that are neither too hot nor too cold. This pleasant weather is ideal for spending the day outdoors, exploring everything the park has to offer without the discomfort of extreme temperatures.
- Lower Prices: Since April is not peak season, there are often lower prices on hotels and sometimes even on park admission, especially during the weekdays. This can make a Disneyland trip more affordable compared to peak times.
- Good Weather for Photos: The natural lighting in April is usually great for photography, with the golden hours of morning and evening providing beautiful soft light. This makes it a fantastic time for capturing memorable photos in and around the park.
Cons
- Unpredictable Weather: While generally mild, April weather can still be somewhat unpredictable in Southern California. Visitors might experience sudden showers or cooler than expected temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. It’s wise to come prepared with layers and possibly even a waterproof jacket.
- Spring Break Crowds: Despite generally lower crowd levels, parts of April can still align with spring break for many schools and colleges, leading to spikes in attendance. These periods can see increased wait times for rides and more crowded park conditions.
- Cooler Evenings: Temperatures can drop significantly when the sun goes down, which might catch visitors off guard if they are not prepared with appropriate clothing. This can affect comfort, especially for those planning to stay late for nighttime shows and parades.
- Allergies: April is a high pollen month, which can be a concern for visitors with allergies. The blooming flowers and plants, while beautiful, can increase discomfort for those sensitive to seasonal allergens.
Final Thoughts: Disneyland in April
Disneyland in April can be an incredibly pleasant time to visit.
It features more mild temperatures than summer months, and less of a crowd if you pick your timing right. It’s truly a great time to visit the parks and enjoy all that Disney has to offer!
