Disneyland Resort Update for December 12 – 18, 2016
Go directly to: News & Views | Join our Networks | Current Refurbishment/Attraction Closures | Resort Events | Non-Disney Resort Events | Discounts and Promotions | Park Schedule/Blockout Dates
News and Views
Last call before holiday blockouts | Security changes shaping up | Main Street Electrical Parade returns to Disneyland Jan 20 – June 18, 2017 | Main Street Electrical Parade Premiere Event at Disneyland | Splitsville Lanes coming to Downtown Disney Anaheim in 2017 | The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – 13th Hour Party at DCA on New Year's Day | Ready, Set, Register for the 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon weekend | Construction Land | This and that… | Crowd forecast
Last call before holiday blockouts
This holiday season will see a slightly new traffic pattern at the Disneyland Resort, thanks to the new Annual Passholder structure that went into effect last year. Starting next Monday, December 19, all annual passports except the $1,049 Signature Plus Passport and the $1,439 Premier Annual Passport are blocked out for the remainder of 2016.
The only difference between the Signature Plus Passport and the less expensive $849 Signature Passport is this two-week blockout period, and it seems lots of passholders were willing to trade the two weeks of access for $200 in savings when it came time to buy or renew their passes months ago. Now that the season is upon us, it will be interesting to see how traffic patterns change with far fewer passholders in the parks than in recent holiday memories.
However, the looming blockouts mean this coming week will be extra busy with passholders hoping to get their one last look at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. There are no blockouts at all this Monday through Thursday. Though our partners at TouringPlans.com project this Friday to be only “4” on their 1-to-10 scale, we suspect this year may prove an exception.
Security changes shaping up
As we shared last month, Disney has been working on a plan in which it will remove the security checkpoint currently located between Downtown Disney and the entrance to the theme parks, and replace it with three new checkpoints that will screen visitors much closer to their cars or Disneyland Resort hotel rooms. Based on our observations this weekend, these three new checkpoints are nearly complete, and we will not be surprised if the new screening procedures are implemented as early as this coming weekend.
One of these new checkpoints is located at the Mickey and Friends parking structure, where the tram route has been completely reworked to connect to a newly constructed loading area. This checkpoint appears complete, with metal detectors already installed. Once the new checkpoints open, arriving visitors will be screened before boarding the trams to Downtown Disney.
Trams now run around the new security checkpoint outside the Mickey and Friends parking structure. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
A second checkpoint has been constructed in the Downtown Disney parking valet loop, adjacent to the ESPN Zone restaurant and the Rainforest Cafe. This will primarily screen visitors who park in the Downtown Disney parking lot. This checkpoint also appears to be mostly complete, though the metal detectors had not been installed as of Sunday. Chain-link fences installed around the area create a barricade intended to prevent people from bypassing the checkpoint. Even covered with printed vinyl banners advertising the World of Color – Season of Light show at DCA, these fences look frankly awful, and the whole complex looks exactly like what you expect from something that was built in a month.
One new security checkpoint is installed at the entrance to Downtown Disney. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
The third checkpoint is built on the other side of the ESPN Zone, and will screen visitors entering the Downtown Disney area from the Disneyland Hotel and Paradise Pier Hotel, as well as those who park in the Simba parking lot. Like the Downtown Disney checkpoint, it is also surrounded by chain-link fencing. This checkpoint already has metal detectors, and appears ready to open at any time.
Security screening tents are in place at the entrance to Downtown Disney from the Disneyland Hotel. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
Colorful banners try to conceal the chain link fences of the new security barrier around Downtown Disney. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
Disney reportedly has no plans to change operation of the security checkpoint on the east entrance to the main esplanade. Visitors arriving from the Toy Story parking lot, or those walking in from Harbor Boulevard will still go through the normal security screening.
At this time, we do not know if the current walkway between the Mickey and Friends parking structure and Downtown Disney will remain open to pedestrians, but we suspect it will be closed. People wishing to walk to the theme parks would walk through Downtown Disney, and pass through security screening at that checkpoint.
We also do not yet know how these changes will impact guests staying at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel.
Main Street Electrical Parade returns to Disneyland Jan 20 – June 18, 2017
The Disney Parks Blog announced Monday that the Main Street Electrical Parade will return to Disneyland on January 20, 2017. The parade was last presented on Main Street, U.S.A. in 1996, following a “glowing away” season that set attendance records at Disneyland. The parade returned to Disney California Adventure in 2010, and was updated with new float units and special effects.
In a separate press release, Disney detailed the lineup for the returning version. The parade will be led by the original Main Street Electrical Parade opening float, the classic drum unit that inspired one of the floats in the Paint the Night parade. Making the return to Disneyland are the 16-foot-tall Elliot from Pete's Dragon, the Cinderella's clock tower unit, and the “To Honor America” patriotic finale float.
The Peter Pan, Snow White, Pinocchio, and Alice in Wonderland units last seen at Disney California Adventure will all return to Disneyland. The Tinker Bell hot air balloon float will not be in this version of the parade, but Tinker Bell will appear on the Peter Pan unit.
The Blue Fairy float and Dumbo Circus units will not be presented in this version of the parade.
According to the announcement, the Main Street Electrical Parade will run nightly through June 18, 2017. Disney has not given any indication what will happen to the parade after that run ends. There have also been no announcements regarding Disney's future plans for the Paint the Night Parade, Mickey's Soundsational Parade, or the Pixar Play Parade.
Main Street Electrical Parade Premiere Event at Disneyland
Disneyland is offering visitors a chance to be among the first to see the Main Street Electrical Parade at a private premiere event on Thursday, January 19, one night before the parade opens to the general public. The event is characterized as being something like Mickey's Halloween Party, but with a much smaller attendance cap. The park will close to the public at 6:00 p.m. that evening, and reopen at 7:00 p.m. to event guests. The event officially kicks off at 7:30 p.m., and runs until midnight.
Along with the premiere performance of the Main Street Electrical Parade, the event includes a “red carpet arrival,” with a step-and-repeat photo opportunity as you enter the park. Attendees will have the first chance to purchase commemorative merchandise created for the Main Street Electrical Parade's return to Disneyland, and can purchase specialty food and beverage offerings from participating restaurants.
There will be new Magic Shots available from the PhotoPass photographers, and a '70s Dance Party at the Tomorrowland Terrace.
Tickets are $95 per person, and includes parking. Advance sale tickets went on sale last Tuesday for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders. Tickets go on sale to the general public tomorrow, Tuesday, December 13. Buy tickets at Disneyland ticket booths, or by phone at (714) 781-4636.
Splitsville Lanes coming to Downtown Disney Anaheim in 2017
Disney announced Wednesday that Splitsville Lanes, which currently operates an upscale bowling alley and dining/entertainment complex in Orlando's Disney Springs, will open a West Coast location in Downtown Disney in 2017. The four-story entertainment complex will replace the House of Blues, which closed earlier this year.
The former House of Blues location will be demolished and rebuilt as Splitsville Luxury Lanes. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes already has competition in the Orange County premium bowling market, with Bowlmor Lanes across the street at the Anaheim Garden Walk, and Lucky Strike at the Outlets in Orange. With only 20 lanes, (half of Bowlmor), Splitsville seems to be as much about its bar and restaurant offerings as bowling. The new project will have dining capacity for 600, plus two bars, and will offer live entertainment.
As construction begins on the former House of Blues, nearby Tortilla Jo's has erected a scrim to block views of the construction site from their patio.
Tortilla Jo's has added patio seating, and blocked the view of the nearby construction. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – 13th Hour Party at DCA on New Year's Day
If you want to be among the very last to ride the Disney California Adventure version of the Tower of Terror attraction before it closes forever on January 2, 2017, Disney is now offering tickets to a private after-hours “13th Hour” party on Sunday, January 1, 2017.
The three-hour party runs from 10:00 p.m. on New Year's Day to 1:00 a.m. the morning of Monday, January 2. The Tower of Terror attraction will still be open to the public on January 2, but event attendees will at least be able to say they were there on “closing day.”
According to the event website, the event includes:
- Enjoyment of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror in its original version for the duration of the party
- Dessert buffet, coffee, soda, and water
- Entertainment provided by a debonair emcee and the plucky Silver Lake Sisters
- Special photo locations
- Signature non-alcoholic beverages and cocktails for an additional cost
- Commemorative keepsake available for purchase
- One of the last opportunities to purchase Twilight Zone Tower of Terror merchandise
Reading between the lines, this is basically a dessert party with a no-host bar. There is no “lovely parting gift” announced, but you can shop at the Tower Gifts store before the final-day to snap up the remaining commemorative merchandise.
This is also a fancy-dress affair, and you are “encouraged to dress in your finest Hollywood Golden Age style.”
Tickets are $95 per person, plus tax and gratuity (because there is food served during the event). You can purchase tickets online at the event website, or by phone via the Disney Dine Line at (714) 781-3463.
Ready, Set, Register for the 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon weekend
General registration for the 2017 Disneyland Half Marathon weekend opens at 9:00 a.m. (Pacific) tomorrow, Tuesday, December 13. The race weekend is scheduled for August 31 through September 2, 2017.
As we shared last week, this registration comes much earlier than ever before, nearly two month earlier than Disney opened registration for the 2016 event. This extra-early registration trend continues for all runDisney races throughout the 2017 season, with Disney asking runners to commit (and pay) nearly a year in advance to ensure a place at the starting line.
runDisney dropped the price of both the 2017 Dumbo Double Dare Challenge and the Disneyland Half Marathon races back to their 2015 levels, and left the price of the shorter races unchanged. With eight runDisney race weekends held annually between Disneyland and Walt Disney World, plus the new Disneyland Paris event and the Virtual Running Shorts series, Disney seems to have found the upper edge of its pricing range for the existing market.
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Dumbo Double Dare |
Price: $330 (an decrease of $20 from 2016; returns to 2015 pricing) Registration includes both Saturday's Disneyland 10K (6.2 miles) and Sunday's Disneyland Half Marathon (13.1 miles), with a bonus (third) Dumbo Double Dare medal. |
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Disneyland Half Marathon |
Price: $185 (an decrease of $20 from 2016) Registration for Sunday's 13.1-mile half-marathon event only. |
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Disneyland 10K |
Price: $120 (no price change from 2016) Registration for Saturday's 6.2-mile 10K event only. Warning: You cannot get the bonus Dumbo medal if you register for the half marathon and 10K events separately. |
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Disneyland Family Fun Run 5K |
Price: $80 (no price change from 2016) Registration for Friday's 3.1-mile event only. |
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runDisney Kids Races |
Price: $20 (no price change from 2016) Registration for Saturday's Kids Races (in various age categories). |
General registration opens at 9:00 a.m. (Pacific) on Tuesday, December 13 via runDisney.com. If the runDisney website crashes, as it often does on registration days, you can go to Active.com directly and search for the Disneyland Half Marathon events.
After you register for your event, come add your name to the Team MousePlanet race roster to connect with other runners and share training tips.
Construction Land
It's time for another peek over the walls into the Star Wars Land construction site. Without an annotated map I can't explain what all of the various dirt mounds and concrete structures are, but it's still interesting to watch it all move and shift and take shape.
From chatter on social media last week, it sounds like Disneyland's Guest Research team has been surveying park visitors as they exit Toontown to query them about their visit to the land. How long did they stay, what attractions did they ride, which characters did they meet or hope to meet? Did they buy any food, or do any shopping? At least one person said the tone of the questions was very much, “would you miss Toontown if it were replaced?” Obviously we're a long way out from seeing wrecking balls coming for Mickey's House, but it was definitely interesting to learn that Disney was asking the questions at all.
What further expansion plans does Disney have for its northern border, and what might this mean for Toontown? Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
A close look at the Star Wars Land construction site shows workers on the job, even on a Saturday afternoon. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
Looking towards the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. This structure is likely the divider between the Rovers of America and a passage between Star Wars Land and Critter Country, and will be planted with trees to provide a visual barrier. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
The foundation of attraction number 1. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
A new white trestle bridge for the Disneyland Railroad is visible in the construction site. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
This and that…
…If you're a fan of the elaborate gingerbread house created by Disney chefs each year at the Grand Californian Hotel, you can now purchase a miniature version of your own. The “Mini Gingerbread Home” is $85, and comes already assembled and decorated. It also comes nicely gift-wrapped, so could make an impressive host/ess gift. They are only available for purchase at the hotel, while supplies last.
You can purchase a miniature gingerbread house created by the Grand Californian Hotel pastry team. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
…Disney has filed a permit to expand the “Tangaroa Terrace – Tiki Bar,” otherwise known as Trader Sam's. The permit appears to add a new bar indoors, but move some storage and a walk-in refrigerator to the basement level, to the space that was formerly a wine cellar. It's unclear whether this would provide additional seating or dining space for the already cramped bar.
..In other Tiki news, Dole Whips are finally available for Disneyland visitors outside of Adventureland. The Coffee House at the Disneyland Hotel, possibly in a move to lure customers now that a second Starbucks has opened in Downtown Disney, now serves Dole Whip soft-serve and Dole Whip floats, just like you can find outside the Enchanted Tiki Room. For those so inclined, you can also order your Dole Whip with a splash of rum, an option not available inside Disneyland.
Prices are $4.49 for a Dole Whip, $5.49 for a float, or $8.75 for the boozy version. Just keep in mind that The Coffee House closes before dusk, so don't save this for an after-dinner treat.
…There are more refurbishments planned for the Grand Californian Hotel. In addition to the pool refurbishment that we shared last month, Disney has alerted guests that the Great Hall lobby will also undergo refurbishment from June to August, 2017. The hotel's website also lists that the Craftsman’s Club concierge lounge will be temporarily relocated from early August 2017 through early October 2017. Based on permits filed with the City of Anaheim, element of the pool refurbishment will be the relocation of the entrance gate for the hotel's pool complex.
Pandora Jewelry has opened in Downtown Disney. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
…Freshly made, hand-pulled candy canes are available this week at Disneyland's Candy Palace on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and at Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. For more information about the tradition, be sure to read our Guide to the Candy Canes at the Disneyland Resort.
…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your e-mail in the box below.
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Crowd Forecast
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Current Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. Refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit Disneyland.com—this information is no longer available from the automated phone service.
Disneyland
- Pioneer Merchantile – closes January 9 for refurbishment. Reopening date not yet published.
- Jingle Cruise – closes January 9 for removal of the holiday overlay. Reopening date not yet published, but likely by January 20.
- Haunted Mansion Holiday – closes January 9 for removal of the holiday overlay. Reopening date not yet published, but likely by January 20.
- “it's a small world” – closes January 22 for removal of the holiday overlay. Reopening date not yet published.
The following attractions are all closed for Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America, and are expected to reopen in spring 2017 or later:
- Disneyland Railroad
- Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes
- Fantasmic!
- Pirates Lair on Tom Sawyer Island
- Sailing Ship Columbia
- Mark Twain Riverboat
Disney California Adventure
- Muppet*Vision 3D – closed indefinitely. The theater has been renamed the Sunset Showcase Theater, and will likely be used for movie previews until a permanent replacement is found.
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – closes January 3, 2017 for transformation into a new Guardians of the Galaxy attraction.
- Grizzly River Run – closed January 9 through February 14 for refurbishment.
Disneyland Resort
- House of Blues Anaheim – closed. The 23,000-square-foot restaurant and concert venue will be partly demolished and converted into a new Splitsville Lanes, scheduled to open in late 2017.
- Curl Surf – under construction in Downtown Disney, and scheduled to open in late 2016
Disneyland Resort Hotels
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Grand Californian Hotel Pools – Closed January 3 through spring 2017, All three of the pools at the hotel will be closed for refurbishment, including the Redwood Pool and water slide, the Fountain Pool, and the Mariposa Pool. The cabanas will also close during this time. The closure is not currently listed on the hotel's website. During the refurbishment, which is expected to last at least through March, people staying at the Grand Californian Hotel can use the pool facilities at the Disneyland Hotel or Paradise Pier Hotel.
Resort Events
Check here to see if a large convention, competition, or park event might fall during your next trip to the Disneyland Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an e-mail (link).
2016
- Holidays at the Disneyland Resort – through January 8, 2017
- 2016 Candy Cane dates – The official dates for 2016 are:
- Disneyland Candy Palace – December 12, 14, 16, 19, 24
- Disney California Adventure Trolley Treats – December 13, 15, 17, 20, 25
- Season of the Force – no end date announced.
2017
- 2017 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – January 12–15, 2017. Registration is still open for the 10K and Half Marathon events. All other race distances are sold out through runDisney, but charities like Team Muscle Makers have space available.
- “Use it or lose it” weekend – January 28–29, 2017. Our designation for the final weekend of January, which marks the deadline for cast members, community groups, and Club 33 members to use their remaining complementary admission tickets from the 2016 allocation.
- Dapper Day Spring Outing to Disneyland (unofficial event) – Sunday, April 23. More information at the event website. This popular event grows larger each year, so it's worth making note of the date if you plan to visit the park during this weekend.
- 2017 Grad Nites: May 5, 6, 10, 17, 19, 20, 24, 30 and 31; June 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 16 and 17.
- 2017 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend – May 11–14, 2017. Registration opens September 20, 2016.
- D23 Expo – July 14–16, 2017. Tickets are now on sale through the official D23 website.
- Dapper Day Fall Outing to Disneyland (unofficial event) – Sunday, November 5. More information at the event website. This popular event grows larger each year, so it's worth making note of the date if you plan to visit the park during this weekend.
We also recommend checking the convention calendar at the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau website. When looking at that site, remember to note both the number of people and the number of rooms resulting from each convention. A gathering of 25,000 people booking few room nights (indicating most will be driving in to the area for their meeting) can impact traffic around the resort much more than a crowd of 25,000 staying in area hotels. Of course, that second group is going to make finding a hotel room more difficult (and possibly more expensive), so it's best to book your own room as early as possible if you see that a big convention is in town during your trip.
Non-Disney Resort Events
Notable events at parks and attractions around Southern California. If you know of an event that should be listed here, please send us an e-mail (link).
Knott's Berry Farm
- Knott's Merry Farm – through January 8, 2017
- Military Tribute Days – through December 16, 2016
- Fire and Law Tribute Days – through December 16, 2016
- Fire and Law Tribute Days – January 9–31, 2017
Legoland California
- Holidays at Legoland – through January 1, 2017
- Kids' New Year's Eve – December 31, 2016.
- Star Wars Days – March 4–5, 2017.
- Red, White and Boom – July 4, 2017.
Sea World San Diego
- Sea World's Christmas Celebration – through January 1, 2017.
- Lunar New Year – January 28 – February 21, 2017.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Six Flags Magic Mountain
- Holiday in the Park – through January 1
School Holidays
Notable school holidays that may impact park attendance. If you know of any other holidays that should be listed here, please send us an e-mail (link).
2016
- Winter Break – December 19, 2016 through January 6, 2017. Most schools close only two of these three weeks, but some districts close all three weeks due to the Sunday Christmas.
2017
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Monday, January 16.
- Cesar Chavez Day – Friday, March 31. Many locals schools are closed.
- Spring Break – March 13 to April 14. The four-week period during which most local schools will observe a one-week spring holiday.
Current Discounts & Promotions
Disneyland prices as of February 28, 2016.
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Disneyland Resort Update. Several current promotions offer discounted admission to the Disneyland Resort. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the number of days the tickets are valid. Check out the category that best matches the amount of time you plan to spend at the resort, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers!
This first section is a list of discounts on ticket-only purchases. Though it has become more common in recent years, Disneyland tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Southern California or Northern Mexico. For residents outside that area, the best discounts available tend to be simple advance purchase discounts. If you know of any additional discounts, offers, promotions, or contests that should be listed in this section, drop us a line. Note, we are no longer listing offers from the Anaheim-Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau, as their convenience fee negates any savings.
Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside the gates stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Disneyland admission, and may result in denial of entry. It is also common for criminals to shoplift inactivated Disney theme park tickets from supermarkets to resell them. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or travel agency.
Ticket Prices and Promotions
| One Day Tickets |
Check the Disneyland website to see what type of ticket you need for the day you plan to visit. Seasonal pricing applies only to one-day tickets. No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. |
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| Two Day Tickets |
No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. |
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Three Day Tickets |
No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. |
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Military |
2016 Disney Military Promotional 3 – Day Park Hopper Ticket ($143) Through December 16, 2016, active and retired U.S. military personnel (including active and retired members of the United States Coast Guard, National Guard and Reservists) or their spouses can purchase the Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets for $143 each [an increase of $11 from the 2014-2015 offer]. Disneyland tickets may be used through December 19, 2016. Active and retired U.S. military personnel can purchase Disney Military Promotional Tickets for themselves and up to five additional family members or friends. No more than six Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased by any eligible member of the U.S. military (or spouse) pursuant to this offer. All tickets and options are non-transferable and must be used by December 19, 2016. For complete information regarding Disney Military Promotional 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets and discounted resort rates, military personnel may visit the Disneyland Resort website, or participating U.S. military base ticket offices. |
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Four Day Tickets |
No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. |
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Five Day Tickets |
No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. |
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| Six Day or longer tickets | No longer offered by Disneyland; some travel providers may offer tickets for 6 days or longer as part of a package to international customers; residents of Canada, Australia, or the U.K. should check with local travel agencies to see what options may be available. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Disneyland Resort Annual Passports |
Disney California Adventure Park Fun Pass Technically not an annual pass, this Costco-exclusive is valid only at Disney California Adventure for 365 days after activation. The pass costs $329.99, the same price as the existing Disney Southern California Select Passport that also includes admission to Disneyland. The new Costco pass comes with 19 blockout dates during the remainder of 2016, and 41 blockout dates through December 1, 2017. Those 60 combined blockout dates most closely resemble those of the existing Deluxe Annual Passport, and cover the peak Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year travel periods, plus most holiday weekends and every Saturday between March 13 and August 19. Remaining 2016 – 2017 blockout dates:
The Disney California Adventure Park Fun Pass also includes the same 10 percent merchandise and food discount as offered with the Southern California Select Passport. Like that pass, the new DCA pass does not include parking, nor is there an option to add a parking pass onto this ticket. The new Fun Pass also includes a Disney collector pin featuring Ariel and the DCA logo. If you're looking to buy this as a holiday gift, note that the pass expires one year after the first use, and the first use must be by December 1, 2016. That doesn't necessarily rule it out as a stocking stuffer, but Christmas will have to come very early so your recipient can activate the pass before the deadline. The pass is available only at Costco stores and from Costco.com. This is not a member-exclusive item, and in our test, the Costco website did not add a surcharge when the pass was purchased by a non-member. The pass is mailed in five to seven business days, though a two-day shipping option is available at an added charge. California residents can take advantage of the monthly payment plan when purchasing any but the Premier Annual Passport.
Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any other discounts are available through them. |
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Southern California CityPASS |
2016 Southern California CityPASS ($329/$294) – includes a 3-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Ticket (including one early-entry day), a one-day admission to Sea World San Diego, and a one-day admission to LEGOLAND California. The CityPASS expires 14 days after first use at any location, and the first use must occur by December 31, 2016. Purchase CityPASS through the Disneyland website or on-site at the ticket booths of Disneyland Resort or the other theme parks included in the pass. You can also purchase directly from the CityPASS website, though a shipping charge may apply depending on how quickly you need the ticket. When you purchase the CityPASS, you have the option of adding a one-day admission to either San Diego Zoo or San Diego Safari Park for an extra $38/$30. This upgraded pass is only available for purchase directly from the CityPASS website. You can also upgrade your CityPASS to add more days at participating locations:
Prices listed above are valid until December 31, 2016 Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any other discounts are available through them. |
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| Disneyland Resort & Universal Studios Combo Pass |
A special combo ticket available exclusively through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel. The bundle includes either a 2-day or 3-day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Ticket, plus a 2nd Day Free Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket. |
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Additional Discounts
Did we miss an offer? If you know of an authorized discount on Disneyland Resort tickets, standing offers for Annual Passholders from non-Disney vendors, or other promotions which might interest our readers, please drop us a note!
Discounts for:
| Everyone |
Purchase with Purchase offers – Disneyland Resort shops frequently offer a reduced–price souvenir (often a tote bag, watch, or blanket) with a qualifying minimum purchase. These are offered at Disney-operated stores only, and selection may vary by location. Recently, Disney has begun allowing customers to purchase more than one of the offers in a qualifying transaction, so if you spend $40 or more you can buy both items currently available if you wish. If you're a passholder, the minimum purchase is calculated after your discount, and your discount does not apply to the promotional item. Current offers:
Landry's Select Club – members of the Landry's Select Club get priority seating at the Rainforest Cafe when available (which makes a huge difference on busy days). This club replaces the former Rainforest Cafe Safari Club, and runs on a point-based system that gives you a $25 gift certificate after you spend $250. Membership now costs $25, but comes with a $25 birthday reward. We recommend that you prepurchase your membership before your visit so you can take advantage of the priority seating benefit. ESPNZone MVP Club – membership in the MVP Club does not offer any discounts on food. However, once a member you can make an online reservation for your party up to three days in advance and will get a 25 percent increase in points purchased when playing games in the Sports Arena (and 40 bonus points at activation). You must register online and your membership card will then be mailed to you within two weeks. The card must then be activated at any ESPNZone by the person who signed up for the card and ID will be required (link). Character Dining Vouchers – discounted character dining vouchers are available for purchase online, in advance of your trip, through Get Away Travel. |
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| Annual Passholders |
Disneyland Resort merchandise – Disneyland extended the 20 percent merchandise discount offered to Premium annual passholders through December 31, 2016. All other passholders receive a 10 percent merchandise discount. Visit the Annual Passholder discount page for specific details and exclusions. Guided Tours – 15 percent off the regular price of six guided tours – Walt in Walt's Footsteps; Cultivating the Magic; Discover the Magic; Happiest Haunts; Welcome to Disneyland; and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Visit the Annual Passholder discount page for specific details and exclusions. Dining – 10 to 15 percent off at a variety of Disneyland Resort locations, including Disney-owned and independent restaurants. Visit the Annual Passholder discount page for specific details and exclusions. |
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Disney Visa cardholders |
Character Meet-and-Greet at Disney California Adventure – cardholders have access to a private character meet-and-greet photo opportunity at Disney California Adventure, and receive one free image download per visit. Star Wars Imperial Meet-and-Greet at Disneyland – cardholders have access to a private character meet-and-greet photo opportunity in the Star Tours Launch Bay in Tomorrowland. Offered daily from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. As of January 23, 2016, Kylo Ren replaced Darth Vader at this location. Disneyland Resort merchandise – Cardholders also receive 10 percent off qualifying merchandise purchases of $50 or more from Disney-operated retail stores. Disneyland Resort dining – 10 percent off at selected Disneyland Resort restaurants, (Big Thunder Ranch, River Belle Terrace, French Market, Cocina Cucamonga, Wine Country Trattoria (lunch), Paradise Garden Grill, The Lounge at Steakhouse 55 (breakfast), Steakhouse 55 (breakfast), PCH Grill (breakfast and dinner), and Storyteller's Café (lunch). Downtown Disney District dining and merchandise – 10 percent off at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen (maximum discount of $40, excludes alcohol), Wetzel's Pretzels, Ridemakerz, Alamo Rent a Car, and ESPN Zone. Disneyland Resort Guided Tours – 15 percent off the “Welcome to Disneyland,” “A Walk in Walt's Footsteps,” “Discover the Magic,” and “Cultivating the Magic” guided tours. See the Disney Visa website for terms and conditions for all of these promotions. |
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U.S. military |
See “2016 Disney Military Promotional 3–Day Park Hopper Ticket” above. |
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| Southern California residents | No discounts currently available to the general public. Check with your employer, school or credit union to see if any discounts are available through them. | |
| Hotel and travel package offers |
Costco Travel Packages – many different travel packages including visits to Disneyland and Disneyland hotels are available through Costco. Disney's Resort Magic and Good Neighbor Magic Packages – These package includes accommodations in one of the three resort hotels or at one of 40 Good Neighbor hotels, along with theme park admission. The packages also come with a variety of extra inclusions and bonuses, usually a souvenir pin and lanyard, and discount coupons for various Downtown Disney merchants. Contact Disney Travel at (714) 520-5050, book online through the Disneyland website, or call your favorite travel agent to inquire about these packages. |
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Customers can add a Snowman Mickey tote or Disneyland castle throw blanket to their qualifying purchase for $20. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix. Park Schedule/Blockout Dates
- DL – Disneyland
- DCA – Disney California Adventure
Annual Pass blockouts:
- SL – Southern California Select Annual Pass
- SC – Southern California Annual Pass
- DX – Deluxe Annual Pass
- SG – Signature Annual Pass
The Disneyland website does not list the blockout dates for the Costco-exclusive Disney California Adventure Park Fun Pass. The blockout dates are as follows:
- 2016 – September 3, 4; November 11, 24, 25, 26; December 19–31
- 2017 – January 1, 2; February 18, 19; March 18, 25; April 1, 8, 9, 14, 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 26, 27, 28; June 3, 10, 17, 24; July 1-4, 8, 15, 22, 29; August 5, 12, 19; September 2,l 3; November 10, 11, 23, 24, 25.
Early Admission – full description available on the Disneyland website:
- MM – Magic Mornings for 3-plus day ticket holders, promotional “bonus” tickets, and Southern California CityPASS
- EMH – Extra Magic Hour for Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests
- EA – Early Admission for Annual Passholders (not currently offered)
Disneyland Resort Special Events:
- FW – Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
- GN – Grad Nite
- MHP – Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland
- 2016 Candy Cane dates – The official dates for 2016 are:
- Disneyland Candy Palace – November 25, 30; December 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 24
- Disney California Adventure Trolley Treats – November 26, 29; December 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 25
| 12/11 | 12/12 | 12/13 | 12/14 | 12/15 | 12/16 | 12/17 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
| 12/18 | 12/19 | 12/20 | 12/21 | 12/22 | 12/23 | 12/24 |
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Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
| 12/25 | 12/26 | 12/27 | 12/28 | 12/29 | 12/30 | 12/31 |
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Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: Candy Canes |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-2a DCA: 8a-1a AP Blockouts: Events: None |
| 1/1/2017 | 1/2 | 1/3 | 1/4 | 1/5 | 1/6 | 1/7 |
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Ticket Season: DL: 9a-11p DCA: 9a-9p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-12a DCA: 9a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-11p DCA: 9a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
| 1/8 | 1/9 | 1/10 | 1/11 | 1/12 | 1/13 | 1/14 |
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Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-9p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-9p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-9p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-9p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
| 1/15 | 1/16 | 1/17 | 1/18 | 1/19 | 1/20 | 1/21 |
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Ticket Season: DL: 9a-12a DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-8p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 10a-8p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-6p DCA: 10a-8p AP Blockouts: Events: MSEP Premiere |
Ticket Season: DL: 9a-11p DCA: 10a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Ticket Season: DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
Visit our Annual Passholders Blockout Dates page to see more dates. You can see future calendar schedules at Disneyland. As always, specifics are subject to change without notice (or occasionally, without us noticing) so when information conflicts between what is presented here and that presented by Disney, it is best to assume Disney's information is correct.
Visit the Park Hours section of our Disneyland Park guide for additional details about Magic Morning and Toontown Morning Madness, including available attractions. Entertainment schedule: Go directly to the Disneyland Resort schedule for this week at Disneyland.com here.
The Seasons calendar is published on the Disneyland website for the next 8-11 months.
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