Disneyland in September: Crowds, Weather, Events
Not sure what you need to know about Disneyland in September? I’ve got your back.
September can be a great time to visit Disneyland (she says from experience), especially since school has started again leaving more of the park for you! Not to mention the weather’s still warm AND you can see some Halloween-esque decor early.
There’s no real “best” time to head to Disneyland, but if you’re considering September, I’m on board. Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know about heading to Disneyland in September – from crowds to weather, let’s dig in!
Disneyland Weather in September
September is a great time to visit Disneyland with its mild, enjoyable weather.
There’s still a hint of summer in the air with warm days and cooler evenings. Daytime temperatures generally hover between the mid-70s to low 80s °F (around 24°C to 28°C), which is the perfect for exploring the magic of the park comfortably from dawn ’till dusk – and after.
September signals the gradual transition from summer into fall in September, offering warm afternoons that extend the feel of summer. Then the evenings begin to cool down, providing a pleasant atmosphere for nighttime shows and parades.
I personally find the weather in Disneyland in September to be fantastic. But weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re in-tune with the forecast closer to your trip so you know what you’re in for!
What to Wear in September
September at Disneyland often presents a delightful dilemma when it comes to choosing what to pack due to the variation in day and evening temperatures.
While the weather remains warm enough during the day to feel like summer, the mornings and evenings (especially later in the months) can bring a cooler breeze. Unsurprisingly, layering is going to be key for comfort.
Here’s what I recommend bringing along:
- A lightweight jacket or sweater
- Comfortable, breathable pants or jeans
- A mix of t-shirts—consider packing both long and short sleeves
- Comfortable walking shoes (a must have for ALL times of year)
Packing with these items in mind will help you enjoy the parks in comfort, no matter what the September weather brings. And don’t forget to bring along sun essentials, like sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat – regardless of how warm it is (or isn’t) the sun is unforgiving.
Disneyland Crowds in September
September is often seen as an optimal time to visit Disneyland, especially if you are looking to avoid larger crowds.
The month lies in a peaceful place just after the peak of summer vacation and before the fall holiday rush, which means there are generally smaller crowd sizes – especially on weekdays. With many schools back in session, visiting from Tuesday through Friday can offer a more relaxed experience with shorter lines and quicker access to attractions.
However, it’s worth noting that Disney KNOWS about the lull and have put in a few events (hello, celebrating Halloween early!) during this time period to help boost attendance.
Still, simply based on the time of year this is probably when you’ll see a more sparse crowd. But because it’s so difficult to predict crowd sizes, I always recommend utilizing real-time crowd tracking apps and checking recent visitor reviews for the most accurate picture.
Disneyland Events in September
Halloween at Disneyland
Halloween starts early this year (August) in Disneyland, which means the fun continues into September. Visiting during this time means that you’ll get to see themed decorations and entertainment throughout the park. Plus rides like the Haunted Mansion will be all decked out in their holiday garb!
Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney’s California Adventure
Continuing on the Halloween charm, the Oogie Boogie Bash runs in September at Disney’s California Adventure. It includes Halloween-themed entertainment, costume opportunities, and character meet and greets.
Note: Guests without a ticket to the event will need to exit California Adventure prior to the start. If you don’t have a park hopper you’ll need to take your Disney fun elsewhere for the evening!
Gay Days at Disneyland
Gay Days isn’t an official event at the park but it is often celebrated by visitors. From September 13th to 15th, you might see visitors sporting red. It’s possible that you’ll also find special rainbow Disney merch during this time, though OFFICIALLY they celebrate Pride in June.
Tips for Visiting Disneyland in September
Opt for Weekdays
Planning your Disneyland visit between Tuesday and Friday can often help you skirt the crowds. September weekdays often see fewer visitors since schools have resumed, which can mean shorter wait times and a more relaxed park experience!
Plan for the Weather
Regardless of what time of year you’re going, you want to make sure you properly plan for the weather. Southern California typically experiences warm afternoons and cooler mornings and evenings during this time.
With that in mind, layers are going to be your friend – that way you can add and/or remove clothing as needed. Make sure to always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen before you head out, even on cloudy days, as UV radiation can penetrate through clouds.
Check Event Schedules
Keep an eye on Disneyland’s event calendar, especially for September, as it includes special events like Halloween festivities and the Oogie Boogie Bash. These events can influence crowd sizes and may result in early closures of certain park areas, particularly Disney’s California Adventure.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially as September can still have quite warm days. Drink plenty of water throughout your visit to avoid dehydration. There are several water stations across Disneyland where you can refill your bottles, ensuring that you and your family stay hydrated without having to constantly purchase new water bottles.
Arrive Early
Arriving at the park early can give you a head start on the day. Many popular rides have shorter lines early in the morning, allowing you to enjoy them without the long waits typical of later hours. This strategy not only maximizes your time but also helps you experience some of the most sought-after attractions with minimal hassle.
Book Dining in Advance
To avoid the inconvenience of waiting for a table or missing out on a preferred dining experience during busier times or special event days, book your dining reservations in advance. Disneyland offers a variety of dining options, and securing your reservation early can ensure you have a pleasant mealtime without the stress of long waits.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
A day at Disneyland often involves a lot of walking, so wearing comfortable footwear is essential. Choose well-fitting, supportive shoes that can handle hours of walking and standing. This will help prevent foot and leg fatigue, making your park experience more enjoyable overall.
Prepare for Nighttime Temperatures
While September days can be warm, the evenings might cool down considerably. Bringing an extra layer, such as a light jacket or sweater, will keep you comfortable during nighttime shows, parades, or as you wind down your day at the park. This is particularly important if you plan to stay at the park until closing time.
Should I Visit Disneyland in September?
Overall, September is a great month to visit Disneyland.
The weather is usually quite comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the park. With most local schools back in session, weekdays in particular are less crowded, providing a more relaxed experience at the attractions.
However, special events like Halloween celebrations can attract larger crowds and might disrupt the usual flow of park visits. Let’s dig into the pros and cons of visiting during this time:
Pros of Disneyland in September
- Lower Crowds: Like May, September benefits from being a transitional period when summer vacations are winding down and most schools have resumed. This generally results in lower crowd levels, particularly on weekdays. Fewer visitors not only means shorter lines for attractions but also a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the park.
- Pleasant Weather: September in Southern California offers some of the year’s most pleasant weather. The extreme heat of summer begins to wane, yet the days remain warm enough to enjoy the parks comfortably. Evenings are cooler, which is perfect for enjoying nighttime shows and parades without the discomfort of summer’s intense heat.
- Seasonal Events: September marks the beginning of the Halloween season at Disneyland, which is a significant draw for many visitors. The park is adorned with festive decorations, and special events like the Oogie Boogie Bash add unique experiences that are not available at other times of the year.
- Reduced Rates: Since September is considered part of the off-peak season, you might find that hotel rates are lower compared to peak summer months. This can make a Disneyland vacation more affordable, particularly in terms of accommodation and sometimes even park admission specials.
- Decorative Atmosphere: The transition into fall is celebrated with unique decorative themes, especially with the Halloween decorations starting to appear. This provides a different aesthetic experience compared to visiting during other times of the year, offering unique photo opportunities and a festive atmosphere.
Cons
- Unpredictable Weather: While the weather in September is generally pleasant, it can also be unpredictable. Occasional heat waves can extend the summer temperatures into September, making some days unexpectedly hot. Evenings can also cool down significantly, requiring visitors to carry extra layers.
- Early Park Closures: Due to special events like the Oogie Boogie Bash, Disney’s California Adventure may close earlier than usual on select nights. Guests without a park hopper ticket and those unaware of the schedule might find their visit unexpectedly shortened, limiting their time to enjoy the park.
- Crowds During Special Events: While general crowd levels are lower, special events can attract significant numbers of visitors.
- School Night Limitations: With local schools back in session, visiting Disneyland on a weekday might not be feasible for local families or those traveling with children who are attending school. This could limit the flexibility in planning your visit and potentially restrict you to more crowded weekends.
- Possible Overlap with Summer Crowds: Early September might still see overlaps with summer vacation crowds, especially around Labor Day weekend, which can lead to higher-than-expected visitor numbers.
Final Thoughts: Disneyland in September
If you want the warmth (particularly during the day), but would prefer smaller crowds, September could be the perfect time fo your to visit. Especially if you want to catch Halloween-themed things and can’t go in October.
