5 Top Disneyland Christmas Attractions You Can’t-Miss
The holiday season at Disneyland is truly unlike any other experience.
From festive parades to twinkling lights draped over every corner of the park, Disneyland at Christmas is like stepping into a holiday dream.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit during that magical time, and honestly, nothing compares to the joy it sparks — the way kids’ eyes light up and adults get caught up in the warmth of it all.
I want to share my favorite things to see for Christmas attractions at Disneyland that highlight the real holiday magic.
Be it your first time visiting, or you’re as familiar with Disneyland as you are with your own neighborhood, these locations will turn up for you next time you’re in for a holiday.
So here’s all you need to know about the best Christmas attractions in Disneyland, and why you must not miss them!
1. “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade
An event not to miss during the holidays at Disneyland is “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade, which captivates crowds as beloved characters don their finest seasonal attire.
From Mickey and Minnie to Santa himself, you’ll find all the Disney favorites marching down Main Street waving, dancing and sharing the holiday spirit.
The floats are adorned with colorful seasonal trinkets, and there’s even “snow” that flurries down the parade route.
I’ll never forget the first time I saw this parade—there is so much energy and excitement, and it really embodies the feeling like Christmas has come to life.
If you want the best view, you’ll want to stake out a place early near Main Street USA or one of the rides like “It’s a Small World” since those areas of the parks are another great place to see the event.
2. Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle
Disneyland’s signature castle gets a holiday makeover that’s even more magical than usual, filled with sparkle and snow, which turns even the most stubborn Grinch into a child again.
Adorned with sparkling lights and “snow” that sparkles by night, Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle is jaw-dropping and a Holiday Must See.
In the evenings, the castle is alive with a magnificent light display, complete with snowfall, making the whole occasion feel like a winter fairytale.
I can still remember standing there with my family, seeing the castle illuminated in magical colors — a moment of Disney magic.
Be sure to take a family photo here; it’s one of the most picturesque spots in the park, particularly during the holidays.
3. “it’s a small world” Holiday
Each year the classic “it’s a small world” ride enjoys a holiday transformation, complete with cheerful decorations and holiday music that make it even better.
Each doll is clad in festive costumes representing holiday traditions around the globe, and cheerful Christmas carols play continuously on the ride, creating a joyous atmosphere reminiscent of a worldwide holiday celebration.
The ride is also covered in thousands of lights on its exterior, and looks spectacular at night.
One year, I was lucky with timing and caught the lights flipping on at sunset — what a view.
The holiday charm of this ride appeals to kids and adults alike, so this is definitely not one to miss.
4. Haunted Mansion Holiday
The Haunted Mansion also receives a one-of-a-kind holiday makeover, where Jack Skellington and friends from The Nightmare Before Christmas take over to create a “spooky” seasonal experience.
The attraction is re-jiggered into a sort of Halloween meets Christmas theme, with wreaths and holiday lights and all the spooky-festive accoutrements.
One of the highlights is a giant gingerbread house in the ballroom scene, which varies each year according to a holiday theme.
I’ll be honest: I’m a fan of The Nightmare Before Christmas, so Jack and Sally in holiday mode is a treat that I look forward to every season.
If you’re watching for a holiday with a twist, this one is for you.
5. Believe… In Holiday Magic Fireworks Show
To finish your Disneyland day with a bit of magic, the “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks show is a must.
This festive fireworks show lights up the night sky with holiday colors, great music and even some snow at the end.
Few things beat standing in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, watching the sky light up with the sounds of Christmas classics playing in the background.
One year I was fortunate enough to see it from Main Street and I can still remember the awe on everyone’s faces as snowflakes started falling after the last firework.
For the best perspective, cross over to Main Street or around Sleeping Beauty’s Castle for an up-close experience.
Final Take, 5 Must-Do Disneyland Christmas Attractions
This article was about the top five Disneyland Christmas attractions you can’t miss.
The above top five Disneyland Christmas attractions are just a taste of the holiday magic awaiting you at the park.
All of these experiences are festive-fied and delightfully “only at Disney,” and they’re all ideal for creating lasting memories with friends and family.
So if you’re going to Disneyland for the holidays, make sure to catch these highlights — they’ll make your visit absolutely magical.
