Disneyland in July: Crowds, Weather, Events
Headed to Disneyland in July?
Let’s be honest – the BEST time to visit Disneyland is when you can make it work for your schedule. But if you have a little flexibility in your schedule, it’s worth taking a look at whether or not July is going to be the best month for YOU.
In this blog post, we’re going to dig into Disneyland in July. From weather to crowds, we’re looking at what you need to know about visiting Disneyland during this peak summer month.
So, are you headed there in July?
Disneyland Weather in July
July is the peak of summer at Disneyland.
The weather during this month is often characterized by warm to hot temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24°C to 29°C), ideal for enjoying the colorful parades and outdoor shows.
July sits firmly in the midst of California’s dry season, boasting predominantly hot, sunny days. But the heat can be quite intense, especially in the afternoons, so you want to make sure you’re staying hydrated and using sun protection.
Due to the warm weather and school vacations, July is a popular time to visit Disneyland. So, if you’re headed there, you’ll want to prepare for larger crowds and longer wait times. It’s also worth making sure you check the forecast to ensure you know what to expect.
What to Wear in July
Packing for Disneyland in July is all about preparing for the hot weather and LOTS of sun protection. Unlike milder spring months, July is HOT. You want to make sure you are packing lightweight, breathable clothing.
To stay comfortable during your park adventure, I recommend:
- Lightweight t-shirts or tank tops to help keep cool under the sun
- Comfortable shorts or breathable skirts to combat the heat
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap to shield your face from the sunny rays
- High-quality sunglasses to protect your eyes during the brightest hours
- A light, long-sleeved shirt or cover-up can be useful for sun protection
- Comfortable footwear!
While you might not use it, brining along a light sweater or hoodie might be a great option. Despite the heat during the days, mornings and late evenings could be a bit cooler. A lightweight cover-up could be the perfect match for a nighttime show or fireworks!
And don’t forget: You NEED plenty of sunscreen and water.
Disneyland Crowds in July
July is one of the busiest months to visit Disneyland, as it coincides with summer vacations and the peak tourist season.
Unlike other months of the year, July does not benefit from any in-between periods between major holidays or school sessions. Schools are generally out, and families take advantage of the warm weather to visit. This means that every day of the week can see significant crowds, with weekends being especially busy as both tourists and locals flock to the park.
During this month, you can expect longer lines and extended waiting times for popular attractions. Early mornings and late evenings might offer slightly thinner crowds, but the park will generally remain bustling throughout the day.
July also brings special events related to the Forth of July, where you’ll see even larger crowds.
Given the summertime conditions, it’s wise to plan ahead. Utilizing tools like the Disneyland app can help manage your day more effectively by checking real-time line waits and adjusting your itinerary on the go. FastPasses or Disney’s Genie+ service can also be invaluable for maximizing your time at the park.
Disneyland Events in July
Pixar Fest
Pixar Fest runs through August 4th, 2024, at Disneyland. This event celebrates Pixar’s most beloved films, such as Toy Story and Up, with themed parades, exclusive merchandise, and special culinary offerings. It offers guests a deep dive into the world of Pixar, enhancing the park experience with unique entertainment and activities.
July Fourth
July Fourth at Disneyland features a day of special events, including a patriotic fireworks display, live music, and themed entertainment. The park is decorated in red, white, and blue, providing a festive atmosphere that honors America’s Independence Day. This annual celebration is a highlight for visitors, combining Disneyland’s magic with traditional Fourth of July festivities.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland in July
Visit Early in the Day
Since July is a busier month, arriving first thing in the morning – right when the gates open – can enhance your experience.
The early mornings are more likely to have cooler temperatures and fewer visitors, which might allow you to enjoy some of the mot popular rides with less wait time.
This can be a great strategy to head straight for attractions that usually have longer lines as the day progresses.
Stay Hydrated
Southern California’s July heat can be intense, making hydration essential.
I recommend carrying a refillable water bottle, that way you can top up at many of the free stations around the park (no single-use $7 water bottles here!).
Ensuring that you stay hydrated can help maintain your energy levels and make sure you’re enjoying your day comfortably while you spend long hours in the sun.
Dress Appropriately
Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for the hot weather, while comfortable walking shoes are a must for the miles you’ll cover throughout the park. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun, and apply sunscreen regularly to prevent sunburn, especially if you’re spending the whole day at the park.
Plan for Crowds
July is a popular month to visit Disneyland due to school vacations and summer holidays. Expect higher crowd levels and plan your visit accordingly. Consider using Disney’s Genie+ service to schedule access to popular rides and attractions, which can help you navigate the crowds better.
Use Disney Genie+ and Mobile Apps
Enhance your park experience by leveraging Disney Genie+ and the official Disneyland mobile app. These tools help manage your day, from securing Lightning Lane selections to checking wait times and finding dining options. This can save significant time and reduce the stress of planning on the fly.
Head for Indoor Attractions in the Afternoon
Let’s be honest, the midday sun can be overwhelming.
This can be the perfect time to explore indoor attractions, shows like Mickey’s PhilharMagic or rides like Pirates of the Caribbean provide a cool refuge.
Take Advantage of Nighttime
As the evening cools, Disneyland takes on a new vibe with beautifully lit landscapes and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor attractions.
Nighttime also offers unique shows and parades that aren’t available during the day, providing a magical end to your day.
Be Prepared for Special Event Crowds
Special events, like Pixar Fest and the Fourth of July celebrations, can attract additional visitors. If your visit coincides with these events, anticipate larger crowds and more extensive festivities.
Planning which events and attractions you want to attend in advance can help you navigate these busy days more effectively.
Reserve Dining in Advance
To avoid the disappointment of long waits for food, book your dining reservations well in advance. This is especially crucial in July, when the park is very busy.
Having a set time and place to eat can provide a much-needed break and ensure that you have a satisfying dining experience without the hassle of searching for an available restaurant.
Should I Visit Disneyland in June?
If you’re planning a trip from out of town, you might not have much flexibility in choosing when to visit Disneyland—especially when coordinating multiple schedules. Therefore, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of visiting in July.
The truth is, July is a vibrant month to visit Disneyland.
The park operates at full capacity with extended hours, allowing more time to explore and enjoy all the attractions. Plus, the warm weather means that it’s likely that all outdoor attractions will be in operation.
However, July is one of the busiest months, with peak crowds and high temperatures that can make the experience less comfortable. Prices are also at their highest, and popular FastPasses and dining reservations can be hard to secure.
So, let’s look at the pros and cons of visiting Disneyland in July:
Pros of Disneyland in July
- Extended Park Hours: July often features extended park hours due to the high demand and longer daylight hours. This allows more time for guests to explore the attractions, enjoy the entertainment, and experience the magic of Disneyland from early morning well into the late evening.
- Special Summer Events: July is packed with special events and entertainment options that aren’t available during other times of the year. Events like Pixar Fest and the Fourth of July celebrations offer unique parades, fireworks, and shows that are exclusive to the summer season.
- Ideal for Vacation Schedules: Since most schools are on summer break, July is a convenient time for families to visit Disneyland without conflicting with school schedules. This makes it easier for families with children to plan longer stays and enjoy everything Disneyland has to offer.
- Full Operation of Attractions: During July, all attractions are typically open, and Disneyland operates at full capacity. This means guests can experience all rides and attractions without closures that might occur during off-peak times for maintenance or refurbishment.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The energy and atmosphere in Disneyland during July are vibrant and festive, enhanced by the summer crowds and special events. There’s a palpable excitement as guests from around the world converge to experience the peak of the Disneyland season.
- Warm Weather: For visitors who enjoy warmer weather, July’s sunny and hot days are ideal. The weather is typically clear, which is perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions and nighttime entertainment without the worry of rain.
- Seasonal Food and Merchandise: Summer at Disneyland brings special seasonal offerings, including limited-time foods, drinks, and merchandise. These exclusive items are often themed around summer or specific events, providing unique souvenirs and culinary experiences.
Cons of Disneyland in July
- High Crowds: July is one of the busiest months at Disneyland due to summer vacations. The park experiences high visitor volumes, which can lead to long lines for rides, crowded walkways, and generally more congested areas throughout the park.
- Hot Weather: Southern California can get particularly hot in July, with temperatures often climbing into the high 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (around 30-35°C). The heat can be challenging, especially for families with young children or elderly visitors, making it less comfortable to spend long hours outdoors.
- Higher Prices: Due to the high demand, July sees peak pricing for both admission tickets and hotel rates. This can make a trip to Disneyland more expensive compared to off-peak seasons.
- FastPass and Dining Reservations Fill Quickly: With the influx of visitors, FastPasses for popular attractions and reservations for preferred dining spots can be booked up well in advance. This requires more planning and might limit spontaneous decisions during your visit.
- Limited Shade and Relief from the Sun: While there are some indoor attractions and air-conditioned spaces, much of the time spent at Disneyland involves being outdoors. Limited shade in queue areas and few places to cool down can make the experience less enjoyable during the midday heat.
- Prolonged Exposure to Sunlight: The extended daylight hours, while beneficial for park time, also mean prolonged exposure to the sun. This increases the risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses if proper precautions like sunscreen reapplication and hydration are not taken.
- Busy Event Days: Special events like the Fourth of July and Pixar Fest can draw even larger crowds. These events, while adding unique experiences and entertainment, can also exacerbate the issues of crowding and long wait times.
Final Thoughts: Disneyland in July
July is an awesome time to visit Disneyland if you’re into warm weather – though the crowds are pretty high (and so are the prices).
I’ll be fully honest – July isn’t going to be the BEST pick if you’re coming from out of town and want to avoid the crowds. But sometimes, we simply don’t have a chance. However, with careful planning and a bit of flexibility you can still enjoy this busy month!
