Disneyland Resort Update for December 21–27, 2015
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News and Views
Disney's new normal – metal detectors and policy changes | Christmas week toolkit | Mickey and friends head to PCH Grill during Goofy's Kitchen refurbishment. | Rose Bowl teams to visit Disneyland | This and that… | Crowd Forecast
Disney's new normal – metal detectors and policy changes
When rumors began circulating online last Wednesday about imminent changes to Disney's security practices, some were so farfetched as to make the whole discussion seem to be a fantasy: Disney was installing metal detectors at park entrances overnight… Costumes and toy weapons would be banned from the parks… Toy guns—even bubble blowers—would be pulled from store shelves… The shooting galleries would be closed, along with the Buzz Lightyear and Midway Mania attractions… The Pirates of the Caribbean would see their guns and pistols replaced with non-ballistic weapons… Lightsabers would be banned…
Signs with new park rules are placed at the theme park entrances. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
It was impossible to determine which, if any, of the rumors were likely or true, and Disney remained strangely silent on the topic, not replying to multiple requests for comment. As the parks closed Wednesday night, the online Disney community settled into watch-and-see mode.
Thursday morning, the West Coast awoke to reports and photos from Walt Disney World, showing that the resort had indeed added metal detectors to the bag check screening checkpoints outside its theme parks. For a short while, it seemed that this was going to be a Florida-only policy change, but then word came that metal detectors were also being installed at the Disneyland Resort, which had not yet opened for the day.
The websites of both Disneyland and Walt Disney World were updated with a new set of guidelines for guests, including new restrictions on costumes and toy weapons. New signs were posted outside the theme parks to alert visitors coming in for the day, and Walt Disney World Resort hotels even took the extra step of alerting resort hotel guests to the changes via voice mail messages left in all hotel rooms.
Predictably, the first few hours were filled with loads of questions, confusion, and even more rumors. A Disney representative contacted MousePlanet to discuss the changes, and we did our part to help spread the word and quash the rumors. If you missed all of this last week, here's what you need to know about the new normal at the Disneyland Resort:
New guest screening process
Disney is currently using an outside company to conduct secondary screening of “randomly selected” visitors after they pass through the bag check tents at all theme park entrances. A pair of metal detectors is in place next to each checkpoint, staffed by this outside security firm.
Visitors are randomly selected for secondary screening after they pass through bag check. Those selected must remove backpacks or purses, empty their pockets, and pass through a metal detector. Visitors who set off the detector are screened again with a handheld metal detector wand.
Metal detectors are set up under tents beyond the bag screening checkpoints at the Disneyland Resort. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
Disney would not discuss how guests would be randomly selected for this secondary screening. There is no option to opt out of this screening, but guests who object will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Visitors will also see a heightened police dog presence at the main entrances, as Disney deploys specially trained “vapor wake” dogs to detect explosives that might be worn on the body or concealed in baggage.
Disney has contracted with an outside firm to run the secondary screening checkpoints. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
No weapons
Effective immediately, all toy weapons are banned from Disney property, and are no longer sold in stores. This applies to realistic and fantasy guns, including Star Wars Blasters, Buzz Lightyear Blasters, and even bubble guns. Anything that looks like a gun has been pulled from shelves, including a miniature Buzz Lightyear Blaster keychain.
The ban does not impact lightsabers, toy swords, or toy bow-and-arrow sets, all of which are still sold in the parks.
Guns such as these previously sold in Disneyland's Frontierland are no longer for sale. MousePlanet file photo.
Toy guns are outlawed, but bow and arrow sets are still sold in Frontierland. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
No costumes
Disney has restated the policy prohibiting adults from wearing costumes, but now allows children up to 14 years old to wear them (the previous policy allowed costumes only on children until age 9). While “no adults in costume” is not a new rule, enforcement was somewhat random, and had been relaxed during the Season of the Force promotion to allow adults to wear Star Wars costumes. Disney has reversed that decision, and once again prohibits older Stormtroopers from wearing their gear inside the parks.
A Disney spokesperson said there were no known exceptions to this policy, which raises questions about the Halloween parties. In the past, Disney allowed adults to wear costumes during these events. Much can change between now and Halloween, but for now, this Disney policy is in effect 365 days a year.
Toy Lightsabers are still sold throughout the Disneyland Resort. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
The Build Your Own Lightsaber offering is still available at the Disneyland Resort. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix.
No attraction changes
Disney says there are no plans to make any changes to remove depictions of weapons from attractions, like pistols in Pirates of the Caribbean; to remove the Blasters from the Buzz Lightyear attraction; or to close the shooting galleries.
Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters are banned, including a small keychain version. Photo by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix
Security, or security theater?
With the tragedy of the San Bernardino shootings so recent and so close to Disneyland, most visitors seem willing to put up with a little inconvenience for the sake of security, and three incidents in the past year have shown the flaws in Disney's current screening system.
In July, a convicted felon was arrested after bringing a loaded handgun into the esplanade between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. He made it through bag check, but was spotted by a security officer in the esplanade. Two weeks ago, another man was arrested after trying to bring a loaded handgun into the Magic Kingdom park in Walt Disney World. Again, he made it through bag check, but the screener alerted an officer, who detained the man before he could enter the park.
And of course, there was the visitor who accidentally dropped a loaded pistol while riding the Dinosaur ride in Florida's Animal Kingdom park, where it was discovered by the next passengers on that ride. That person—a concealed carry permit holder—made it through bag check and into the parks. Just last month, the topic of carrying concealed weapons came up on the OC Moms Disneyland Annual Pass Holders Facebook group, with two of its members stating that they frequently carried their weapons when visiting Disneyland.
Managers of theme parks like Disneyland—as well as Universal Studios and Sea World, which also enhanced security measures last week—face a delicate balancing act when it comes to guest safety. There is no doubt that these places present a highly visible target, and are attractive to people looking to make a statement. Do too little, and they open their parks to attack. Do too much, and their resorts gain a “Magic Mountain” reputation (known for high security), and make parents second-guess their choice to bring their family for the day.
Still, we have to ask: Is all just security theater, or is this just the beginning? Searches of “randomly selected” individuals are rife for complaints about profiling (especially when reasons and triggers are not made public), and still only screen a fraction of the people entering the parks. To truly prevent guests from carrying weapons or explosives into the theme parks, Disney would need to put everyone through airport-style screening, a system that would require a massive infrastructure Disney hasn't built.
Such a screening would also require a change in the way people visit a Disney theme park. Sporting venues and concert halls are able to screen thousands of people in a relatively short time because those people aren't bringing (or allowed to bring) in a day's worth of spare clothing, hauling snack-filled backpacks or pushing double-wide strollers. When a measurable percentage of park visitors can't even fold their strollers to board the tram, how are they going to get themselves and their gear through a TSA-style screening?
What about screening cast members, vendors, contractors, and the thousands of people who have backstage access? Beyond that, what about the outside world? The Disneyland Resort does not exist inside a bubble or under a dome, and is surrounded on all sides by the real world.
This temporary solution is preferable to doing nothing, but won't stop a determined attacker. An effective screening might be more hassle than Disney visitors are willing to tolerate. For now, the best defense continues to be situational awareness. And unfortunately, that is our new normal.
Christmas week toolkit
Long-time readers and regular Disneyland visitors can be excused for jumping to the next item in this week's Update, but the time has come for our annual reminder about handling the holidays at Disneyland Resort. The next two weeks are traditionally the busiest time of the year at the Disneyland Resort, and we want you to be prepared as you face maximum-capacity crowds.
Buy your tickets in advance
Our top tip, year after year: buy your tickets before you ever approach the main entrance. On the busiest days, Disneyland implements a series of crowd-control measures, including restricting the sales of certain types of tickets, or even stops selling tickets altogether—by purchasing tickets in advance, you can avoid standing in a long line just to buy tickets, as well as avoid being shut out from purchasing tickets altogether.
There is absolutely no reason to wait until you reach the resort to buy your tickets; buying before you arrive saves you a lot of time and headache, and leaves you with more options than those who show up without a ticket.
2015 tip: The easiest way to buy tickets is online from the Disneyland website. Print them at home before you leave and walk straight to the gate, saving you a long wait in the ticket booth lines. You can also purchase tickets using the new Disneyland app for iPhone and Android smartphones, though this is more convenient for people who just need to buy one or two tickets, as opposed to families who need a half-dozen tickets.
Tickets (and even annual passports) are available at many local grocery store chains, and be sure to check with your credit union or company benefit program.
If you still manage to get to Disneyland without a ticket, the resort has set up temporary ticket carts next to the Disneyland main entrance. These are full-service ticket desks, and can sell every type of ticket and passport. In addition, if you are staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel or Good Neighbor hotel, you can purchase tickets from the front desk before you head to the parks.
Take advantage of Extra Magic Hour and Magic Mornings if you can.
Both programs offer an extra hour in the theme parks before they open to the general public, and are absolutely essential to getting the most out of a holiday visit to Disneyland.
Whatever amount of extra effort it takes to get your family on their feet and inside a theme park by 7 a.m. will be more than repaid by the opportunity to check off all of your must-do rides before most people even have their first cup of coffee. Sleep in, and you'll join the huddled masses waiting 75 minutes just to ride Star Tours.
2015 tip: Head into Tomorrowland first thing to get a Fastpass ticket for Hyperspace Mountain, then pop back to ride Star Tours while you're waiting for your Fastpass return time. Both Hyperspace Mountain and Star Tours will run out of Fastpass tickets during the day. If you miss out, you'll risk a 2+ hour wait for Hyperspace Mountain.
One or both programs are offered at both parks every day, now through Monday, January 4:
- Extra Magic Hours – available to those who are staying at one of the three on-property resort hotels (Disney's Grand California Hotel, Disneyland Hotel, and the Paradise Pier Hotel). Gives you access to Disneyland one hour before scheduled park opening time. Valid theme park ticket and active hotel room key card are required for entry.
- Magic Mornings – included with advance-purchase 3-day+ tickets and the Southern California CityPass. Gives you access to Disneyland one hour before scheduled park opening time. Each person must have an eligible ticket to enter
12/21 12/22 12/23 12/24 12/25 12/26 DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents:
Christmas EveDL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents:
Christmas DayDL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
12/27 12/28 12/29 12/30 12/31 1/1/2016 1/2/2016 DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents: None
DL: 8a-2a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-1a
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents:
New Year's EveDL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents:
New Year's DayDL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SC/DX/SGEvents:
Three Kings' Day1/3 1/4 DL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
SL/SCEvents:
Three Kings' DayDL: 8a-12a
EMH/MMDCA: 8a-11p
EMHAP Blockouts:
NoneEvents:
Three Kings' Day
Schedule your entertainment
Shows are a great way to take a break during the day, but the entertainment-heavy Diamond Anniversary celebration, plus the end of run for the Aladdin show, means bigger crowds.
2015 tip: Fastpass tickets are again being issued for Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, which closes January 10. The tickets are distributed from mobile Fastpass machines set up along Hollywood Blvd. inside Disney California Adventure. Standby seating may be available, but it's best to get a Fastpass to ensure your seat.
Here is the confirmed entertainment schedule for December 21, 2015 – January 2, 2016:
Disneyland | “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade | 1:00 and 3:15 p.m. |
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Paint the Night parade | 5:45 and 10:45 p.m. (6:15 p.m. only on 12/31) |
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Disneyland Forever fireworks | 9:30 p.m. | |
Fantasmic! | 9:00 and 10:45 p.m. (11:59 p.m. show added 12/31) |
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Disney California Adventure | Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular | 11:40 a.m.; 1:05, 3:35, 5:10 and 6:35 p.m. (12/21; 12/26-31) |
Buena Vista Street holiday tree lighting | 5:00 p.m. (ends 12/25) | |
Pixar Play Parade | 5:45 p.m. (3:00 p.m. parade added 12/25–31) |
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Diamond Mad T Party | 6:15 to 11:00 p.m. | |
World of Color – Winter Dreams | 9:00 p.m. | |
World of Color – Celebrate! | 10:15 p.m. |
Plan your meals.
Table service restaurants fill quickly, so you risk eating hot dogs from a vending cart or waiting in long lines at the counter service locations if you don't make reservations where possible. Use the online dining reservation system to search for available tables without waiting on hold for hours with the Disneyland Dine Line.
2015 tip: Use the new Disneyland app for iPhone and Android smartphones to find last-minute openings and cancellations while you're in the theme parks.
If you're in the parks and need help finding an open restaurant, stop by City Hall (Disneyland) or the Chamber of Commerce (DCA) and look for the marked “dining reservations” phones to contact the Dine Line—we've found that calls made from Disney phones tend to be answered more promptly.
Mickey and friends head to PCH Grill during Goofy's Kitchen refurbishment.
Goofy’s Kitchen will be closed for refurbishment beginning January 19 through February 9. During this time, Disney's PCH Grill will offer a Beach Side Bonfire Dinner Buffet with Mickey & Friends, in addition to the ongoing Surf’s Up Breakfast… Starring Mickey & Friends. PCH Grill will remain closed for lunch.
Rose Bowl teams to visit Disneyland
The two teams competing in the 2016 Rose Bowl college football game are scheduled to visit Disneyland on Saturday, December 26 to participate in the Disney Media Day. Expect the coaches and key players from the Iowa Hawkeyes and Stanford Cardinal to appear in a very brief ceremony in front of Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
We do not yet have a schedule for the ceremony. Based on past years, expect the event to impact operations around Main Street, with the Castle forecourt roped off to set up a seating area, and the Main Street vehicles to have reduced operating hours or even close for the day. The seating area is reserved for invited guests only, but you can watch from the sidelines if you're willing to wait an hour or more.
Immediately after the ceremony, the coaches and players generally participate in interview sessions. Again, we don't have an official schedule, but keep an eye out for some of the players posing for media photos around the resort.
We also expect the marching bands from the two teams to appear at Disneyland after Christmas, but no details are yet available.
This and that…
…The final two chances to get a fresh candy cane at the Disneyland Resort are this week, Christmas Eve at Disneyland, and Christmas Day at Disney California Adventure.
…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 MouseAdventure 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
2015
- Starcade – closed indefinitely. The empty space is currently being used for stroller parking during busy days.
2016
- Jungle Cruise – closes January 11 to remove the Jingle Cruise overlay. Reopening date to be determined, but after January 31.
- Haunted Mansion – closed January 11–22 to remove the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay.
- Autopia – closes January 11 for refurbishement. Reopening date to be determined, but after January 31.
- Disneyland Railroad – closes January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to reopen spring 2017.
- Davy Crockett's Explorer Canoes – closes January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to reopen spring 2017.
- Fantasmic! – on hiatus effective January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to return summer 2017.
- Pirates Lair on Tom Sawyer Island – closes January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to reopen spring 2017.
- Sailing Ship Columbia – closes January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to reopen spring 2017.
- Mark Twain Riverboat – closes January 11 due to the Star Wars Land-related construction around the Rivers of America. Expected to reopen spring 2017.
- it's a small world – closes January 25 – February 5 to remove the holiday overlay.
- 20th Century Music Company – closes January 25 for refurbishment. Reopening date to be determined, but after January 31.
- Starcade – closed indefinitely.
Disney California Adventure
2015
- Blue Sky Cellar – closed; reopening date now TBD. Permits have been filed to expand the location for use by the Disney Vacation Club.
- Luigi's Flying Tires – closed. Ride to be removed and replaced; reopening date unknown.
- Muppet*Vision 3D – closed indefinitely due to the Frozen Fun overlay.
- Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular – closes January 10. Replaced in summer 2016 by a new Frozen musical.
2016
- Luigi's Flying Tires – closed. Ride to be removed and replaced; reopening date unknown.
- Soarin' Over California – closed January 4–22 for refurbishment. Closes again January 25-28.
- Grizzly River Run – closed January 11–14 for refurbishment.
- It's Tough to be a Bug! – closed January 19-21, possibly to install a Zootopia movie preview.
- World of Color – on hiatus starting January 19. No reopening date listed.
Disneyland Resort
- Goofy’s Kitchen – closed for refurbishment beginning January 19 through February 9. During this time, Disney's PCH Grill will offer a Beach Side Bonfire Dinner Buffet with Mickey & Friends, in addition to the ongoing Surf’s Up Breakfast… Starring Mickey & Friends. PCH Grill will remain closed for lunch.
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).
2015
- Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – through September 5, 2016
- Holidays at the Disneyland Resort – through January 6.
- Season of the Force – no end date announced.
2016
- Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – through September 5, 2016
- 2016 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – January 14–17. All running events are sold out, but ChEAR Squad packages are still available. Details on the runDisney website.
- 2016 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend – May 5–8. The 5K and 10K events are sold out, but the half-marathon and Pixie Dust Challenge are still available. Details on the runDisney website.
- Dapper Days at the Parks (unofficial event) – Sunday, May 1, 2016. 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.
- Grad Nite events – This party for high school seniors graduating in 2016 will be held on these dates: May 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 31; June 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17. The 2016 event includes admission to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park during regular operating hours, and a private party in Disney California Adventure park from 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
- Season of the Force – through May 26, 2016.
- 2016 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend – September 1–4. Registration opens February 2, 2016.
- Dapper Day Fall Soiree (unofficial event) – Sunday, November 6, 2016. 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.
- 2016 Avengers Half Marathon Weekend – November 10–13. Registration opens April 15, 2016.
2017
- 2017 Star Wars Half Marathon Weekend – January 12–15, 2017. Registration opens June 14, 2016.
- 2017 Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend – May 11–14, 2017. Registration opens September 20, 2016.
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.
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).
2015
- Winter Break – December 21, 2015 – January 8, 2016. Most local schools are closed.
2016
- Spring Break(s) – March 14 – April 8. Most local schools are closed one week during this period. Expect the majority of school closures—and crowds—the weeks immediately before and after Easter Sunday, March 27.
- Local School Holiday – Monday, March 28. Most local schools not already on Spring Break will be closed for Cesar Chavez Day.
- Nevada Day (observed) – Friday, October 28. A school holiday for our neighbors to the northeast creates a 3-day weekend and usually adds to the Halloween weekend crowds. Some Nevada schools take the entire week off as a Fall Break.
- Utah Education Association convention (UEA, a.k.a. “Utah Escapes to Anaheim”) – October 20–21. Expect holiday-level crowds October 19–24 as Utah students and families take advantage of a Fall Break scheduled around an annual state education convention. Not all Utah schools close for UEA, but the impact on the resort is significant enough to mention.
- Thanksgiving Break – November 21–25. Many local schools close for the entire week of Thanksgiving.
- Winter Break – December 19, 2016 – January 6, 2017. Most schools close only two of these three weeks, but some districts close all three weeks due to the Saturday Christmas.
Merchandise Events
Date | Event |
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Dec 21 (M) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 22 (Tu) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 23 (W) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 24 (Th) |
Disneyland Candy Palace – Fresh Candy Cane wristband distribution, park opening. World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 25 (F) |
Trolley Treats – Fresh Candy Cane wristband distribution, park opening. World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 26 (Sa) |
WonderGround Gallery – Olive oil tasting: Temecula Olive Oil Company, 2–5 p.m. World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 27 (Su) |
WonderGround Gallery – Olive oil tasting: Temecula Olive Oil Company, 2–5 p.m. World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 28 (M) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 29 (T) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 30 (W) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Dec 31 (Th) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Jan 1 (F) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Jan 2 (Sa) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Jan 3 (Su) |
World of Disney – Precious Moments representatives |
Current Discounts & Promotions
Disneyland prices as of October 4, 2015.
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 |
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 |
A discounted ticket available through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel. Offer valid for travel through November 2015. Bonus Tickets include one Magic Morning early entry which allows access to select areas of Disneyland Park one hour before the park opens to the general public. (subject to change without notice) Ticket expires 13 days after first use. See Get Away Travel website for offer details and restrictions. 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 January 3, 2016, through December 19, 2016, except that the tickets may not be used March 20 through April 1, 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 |
A discounted ticket available through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel. Offer valid for travel through November 2015. Bonus Tickets include one Magic Morning early entry which allows access to select areas of Disneyland Park one hour before the park opens to the general public. (subject to change without notice) Ticket expires 13 days after first use. See Get Away Travel website for offer details and restrictions. 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 |
A discounted ticket available through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel. Offer valid for travel through November 2015. Bonus Tickets include one Magic Morning early entry which allows access to select areas of Disneyland Park one hour before the park opens to the general public. (subject to change without notice) Ticket expires 13 days after first use. See Get Away Travel website for offer details and restrictions. Five Days for the price of Four Park Hopper Bonus Ticket – $300/$285 A discounted ticket available through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel. The first day of use must occur on or before December 31, 2015. Bonus Tickets include one Magic Morning early entry which allows access to select areas of Disneyland Park one hour before the park opens to the general public. (subject to change without notice) Ticket expires 13 days after first use. See Get Away Travel website for offer details and restrictions. 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 |
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
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2015 Southern California CityPASS ($334/$291) – 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, 2015. 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. 2015 Southern California CityPASS through Get Away Today ($324/$281) – Save $10 per ticket when you purchase your City Pass through MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Travel, 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 $48/$38. This upgraded pass is only available for purchase directly from the CityPASS website Prices listed above are valid until December 31, 2015 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. |
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, 2015. 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 6 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 5″x7″ photograph per visit. Star Wars Imperial Meet-and-Greet at Disneyland – cardholders have access to a private character meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Darth Vader in the Star Tours Launch Bay in Tomorrowland. Offered daily from 4pm to 8pm. 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. 15 percent off littlemissmatched purchases. 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 “2015–2016 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 – package includes accommodations in one of the three resort hotels or at one of 40 Good Neighbor hotels; Souvenir Park Hopper ticket with voucher for admission to Mickey's Toontown Morning Madness, plus one Magic Morning (early entry) for three-day or longer Park Hoppers; preferred seating at three DCA attractions (Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, Muppet*Vision 3D, It's Tough to be a Bug!); preferred showing of Turtle Talk With Crush (priority viewing at the first Turtle Talk With Crush show of the day, on any one day—one voucher per guest); Disney Dream coin keepsake (one per package), luggage tag and lanyard with pin; a Downtown Disney Fun Card; and a “Character Call” from Mickey, Minnie, Goofy or Crush. Contact Disney Travel or your favorite travel agent. |
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
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:
- GN – Grad Nite.
- MA – MouseAdventure (www.mouseadventure.com)
- MHP – Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland
12/20 | 12/21 | 12/22 | 12/23 | 12/24 | 12/25 | 12/26 |
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DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11 AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
12/27 | 12/28 | 12/29 | 12/30 | 12/31 | 1/1/2016 | 1/2/2016 |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-2a DCA: 8a-1a AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
1/3 | 1/4 | 1/5 | 1/6 | 1/7 | 1/8 | 1/9 |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: |
DL: 9a-11p DCA: 9a-9p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
1/10 | 1/11 | 1/12 | 1/13 | 1/14 | 1/15 | 1/16 |
DL: 9a-11p DCA: 9a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-10p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 9a-11p DCA: 9a-9p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
DL: 8a-12a DCA: 8a-11p AP Blockouts: Events: None |
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.
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