Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread #4 | DIS Disney Discussion Forums

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Disneyland Park
Seasonal Entertainment/Activities/Highlights/Events/Decorations

General Holiday Season Blogs

(2014)

"Mapping Out the Holidays: Disneyland Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 3rd, 2014 by Shannon Swanson, Public Relations Manager, Disneyland Resort

"Christmas Trees of the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 28th, 2014 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

"Disneyland Resort: Holidays By The Numbers" -- Disneyland News press release; posted Wednesday, November 26, 2014

"First Look: Train, Trisha Yearwood, Lucy Hale, Trey Songz and More at the Disneyland Resort for Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration on ABC" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 11th, 2014 by George Savvas, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

Happy New Year from the Disneyland Resort -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 1st, 2014 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

(2013)

The Christmas Trees of Disneyland Park -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 25th, 2013 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

(2010)

Disneyland Gems: Holidays at Disneyland! - DIS Unplugged; posted on November 21, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent

(2009)

Disney Characters Decorate Disneyland Park Through the Years - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 22nd, 2009 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

Adventureland

Jingle Cruise

(2014)

"Jingle Cruise: a Better and Funnier Voyage in 2014" -- The DIS; posted by HydroGuy on November 16, 2014

"Dateline Adventureland: Lost Holiday Shipment Found Aboard the Jingle Cruise at Disneyland Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 13th, 2014 by Tallahassee Glover, Adventureland Correspondent

"Jingle Cruise and Disney’s The Little Mermaid Are Featured Online Only Shirts For November 2014" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 9th, 2014 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

"Dateline Adventureland: Holiday Shipment Lost in the Jungle at Disneyland Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2014 by Tallahassee Glover, Adventureland Correspondent

(2013)

VIDEO: Disneyland's 'Jingle Cruise' Queue and Full POV Ride-Through – November 25, 2013; DIS Unplugged

‘Limited Time Magic’: Grab a ‘Jingle Cruise’ Poster at Disneyland Park, Walt Disney World -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 22nd, 2013 by Thomas Smith, Social Media Director, Disney Parks

Jingle Cruise – Disneyland News (gallery); posted on November 21, 2013

VIDEO: Tour the Jingle Cruise at Disneyland Park -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 13th, 2013 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

‘Jingle Cruise’ Adds Holiday Spirit to Disney’s ‘Jungle Cruise’ - DIS Unplugged; posted by Craig Williams, Saturday, November 9th, 2013

(REGARDING THE MAGIC KINGDOM AT WALT DISNEY WORLD) "Imagineers Share the First Photos of Jingle Cruise at Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 8th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

"First Look: Jingle Cruise Props & Opening Dates at Disneyland Park and Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

"Jungle Cruise Goes Jingle Cruise for the Holidays at Disneyland Park & Magic Kingdom Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 23rd, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

Critter Country

(Not only can you find Pooh and his friends -- most of whom are wearing Santa hats or winter scarves -- at their usual photo spot, but you will also notice that many of the ornaments scattered around Critter Country are covered in "hunny"! ... Critter Country is also home to some of the tiniest decorations in all of Disneyland Resort -- but you'll have to figure out where they are, because telling you would spoil the fun!)

Fantasyland

Frozen Fun

(This event is not technically part of the roster of Holiday Season activities as of yet, but it is scheduled to "sneak peek" in California Adventure beginning on Saturday, December 20, 2014, before officially starting on Wednesday, January 7, 2015. Most of "Frozen Fun" will take place in DCA, and the Anna and Elsa meet and greet will relocate from Fantasyland to DCA.)

The Disneyland park/Fantasyland highlights of "Frozen Fun" will include:

New “Frozen”-themed show opening in Disneyland at Fantasy Faire, at the Royal Theatre (This will open by January 7, 2015); and
New "Frozen" additions to the Storybook Land Canal Boat ride, including: Arendelle; the castle where Anna and Elsa grew up; Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post; and Elsa’s ice palace. (This will debut by December 20, 2014)

Frontierland

Jingle Jangle Jamboree (formerly Santa's Reindeer Round-Up)

(Santa Claus appears at the JJJ in his standard red suit as he greets guests from the start of the Holidays through Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. After Christmas and on through the last day of the holiday season in early January, Santa wears a less formal "greed plaid" outfit at the Jamboree.)

(2014)

"Santa Is Making the Rounds at Disney Parks" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 4th, 2014 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

(2013)

Dining in Disneyland: Treats at the Jingle Jangle Jamboree -- Disney Food Blog; posted by Heather Sievers on Dec 18, 2013

(2012)

"Y'All Come on Down to the Jingle Jangle Jamboree at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 12th, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Santa's on His Way to the Jingle Jangle Jamboree at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 6th, 2012 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

(2010)

"Reindeer in Training at Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch" (December 25, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Rustic Holiday Décor Ideas from Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch" (December 21, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Santa's 8 Famous Reindeer are at Disneyland Resort!" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 3rd, 2010 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

Main Street

Mickey's Toontown

(The decorations in Toontown are colorfully exaggerated, over the top and just a bit off-kilter. If you look closely you will see that each business or storefront in this animated city has its own customized holiday adornments. Much like Flik at the entrance to his Fun Fair in California Adventure, Roger Rabbit sports a miniature Santa suit above the entrance to the Car Toon Spin!)

New Orleans Square

Tomorrowland

(At this time there are no holiday offerings of any kind in Tomorrowland.)

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Eating, Drinking and Being Merry!

(a.k.a. Holiday Food/Dining/Treats/Candy Cane Information!)

General Seasonal Food/Treats/Dining Information

*Don't forget to visit the Pacific Wharf area of California Adventure for a free sample of peppermint bark at Ghirardelli, and to check out the special seasonal loaves of sourdough bread from the Boudin Bakery, crafted into candy canes, snowmen and Christmas trees!

*Also check out the "Ghoulish Grub, Terrifying Treats and Perilous Potions" section of the Halloween Time at DLR Superthread #4, as some of the Halloween/Autumn-inspired goodies may stick around beyond Halloween and you need to know what to look for! The pumpkin beignets are more commonly associated with the Halloween Time season, for example, but they have been known to appear during the holidays too! There have also been pumpkin fudge sightings during the holiday season!

(2014)

"Dining in Disneyland: Mickey Elf Premium Popcorn Bucket" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on Dec 4th, 2014 by Heather.

"Plan the Merriest Feast on Earth at Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 24th, 2014 by Rachel Brent, Food & Beverage Marketing Communications Coordinator

"Decking the Halls with Holiday Novelty Items at Disney Parks" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 18th, 2014 by Rachel Brent, Food & Beverage Marketing Communications Coordinator

"Traditional Candy Kitchen Favorites Return to the Disneyland Resort for the Holidays" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 12th, 2014 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Hearty Pozole Soup, the Perfect Fall Supper from Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California Adventure Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 4th, 2014 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Disneyland Duel: Battle of the Beignets!" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on August 28th, 2014 by AJ.

"Do You Want to Eat a Snowman … Apple at Disney Parks?" – Disney Parks Blog; posted on March 18th, 2014 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

(2013)

"Disney Food Blog – Guest Review: Holiday Gingerbread Beignets at Disneyland’s Mint Julep Bar" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on December 25th, 2013 by Kim/Kelli Shiroma

"Eat-Shop-Play Guide to Holidays at the Disneyland Resort: Tips from a Disney Parks Moms Panelist" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 18th, 2013 by Michele Himmelberg, Public Relations Director, Disneyland Resort

"Sweets, Libations for the Holidays at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 13th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"January Brings a New Gourmet Apple Treat Your Way at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 12th, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Spotting Sweet Seasonal Treats at Disney Parks" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 30th, 2013 by Jennifer Fickley-Baker, Social Media Manager

"Holiday Treats Delight at the Disneyland Resort" – Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 26th, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Hit the Road for our Rocky Road Gourmet Apple this November at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 22nd, 2013 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Pumpkin Beignets Are Back in New Orleans Square at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 21st, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Dining in Disneyland: Pumpkin Beignets vs. Pumpkin Fritters" - Disney Food Blog; posted on Oct 17th, 2013 by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: Gourmet Marshmallows at Trolley Treats" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on February 11th, 2013 by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Brittle" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on January 4th, 2013, by Heather Sievers

(2012)

"Dining in Disneyland: The Holiday Specialty Caramel Apple (A.K.A. the Peppermint Beast)" - Disney Food Blog; posted on December 14th, 2012, by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: Harbour Galley’s Pumpkin Squash Chowder, Stuffed Baked Potatoes, and More" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on December 11th, 2012 by Heather Sievers

"A Little Something to Sweeten Your Holidays at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 11th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Make Your Own S'mores Bake at Home with this Disneyland Park Recipe" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 10th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Dining in Disneyland: Holiday Treats in Disneyland and DCA" - Disney Food Blog; December 8th, 2012, by Heather Sievers

"Tamales: A Holiday Tradition at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 3rd, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

2012 Disneyland Holiday Season Dining and Events - Disney Food Blog 2012

(2011)

"If You Love the Pumpkin Beignets at Disneyland Park, How About Gingerbread?" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 5th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Cute and Delicious Sourdough – An Edible Gift from Disney California Adventure Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 28th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Dining in Disneyland: New Holiday Desserts at Disney California Adventure!" - Disney Food Blog; November 22nd, 2011, by Heather Sievers

"A Bounty of Holiday-Themed Sweets at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 22nd, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Holiday Treats at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 9th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Holiday Tamales From the Disneyland Resort" - Disneyland News; posted on November 1st, 2011

"Fancy Pumpkin Beignets From Club 33 at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 15, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2010)

"Fabulous Treats for Your Disneyland Holiday" (December 16th, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Nothing Says Holiday Like a Disneyland Tamale!" (December 14th, 2010, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

"Dining in Disneyland: Holiday Treats" - Disney Food Blog; November 17th, 2010, by AJ. Wolfe

Candy Cane Info

Disneyland Resort Candy Kitchen (for specific information on seasonal treats, updated every few months) phone number: 1-714-781-0112

The Disney Parks Authentic/Candy Treats section will post the dates each year -- HERE.

(2014)

Candy Cane-making locations and dates:

Disneyland park – Candy Palace

November 28 and December 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 21, 23 and 24

Disney California Adventure park – Trolley Treats

November 29 and Dec. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22 and 25

Schedule for Handmade Candy Canes at Disneyland -- The DIS; posted on November 13, 2014 by Leah Zanolla.

"2014 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates Announced!" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on November 13th, 2014 by Kim.

(2013 and prior...)

"Dining in Disneyland: 2013 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates!!" - Disney Food Blog; November 8th, 2013, by Heather Sievers

"2012 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates" - Disney Food Blog; November 23rd, 2012, by Heather Sievers

Candy Canes 2012 (thread started by Carolwoodpr)

amamax2's Excellent Tips for Scoring a Candy Cane!

"Dining in Disneyland: The Race for Hand Made Candy Canes" - Disney Food Blog; December 16th, 2010, by AJ Wolfe

"Dates for 2010 Disneyland Candy Canes" - Disney Food Blog; November 23rd, 2010, by AJ Wolfe

"It's Candy Cane time at Disneyland - dates and details" (from 2010 - MousePlanet/MousePad)

"Candy Canes Help Guy Fieri Celebrate Disneyland Holidays" - (December 2, 2009, by Nancy Johnson, DIS Unplugged Contributor/Correspondent)

Handmade Candy Canes (from 2009 - started by Psymonds)

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dining Information

(Catal and Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney each offer special meals and menus for Christmas, but those menus will not appear on their websites until closer to the holiday.)

2013 Christmas Offerings at Disneyland Resort -- The Mouse for Less

”Last-minute Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining advice” (includes list of Christmas Eve and Day Dining Options) – MousePad/MousePlanet; posted on December 22, 2013 by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

Christmas Call-In Show (December 6, 2012) - The DIS Unplugged/Podcast team and I tackle all the commonly asked questions about the holiday season, including special menu items available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and much, much more!

Partial list of 2012 Christmas Meals/Menus from Disneyland Dining - posted on October 25, 2012, by JediMasterNerd

Downtown Disney

(Stop in at Marceline's Confectionery for a sweet treat -- sometimes Marceline's carries certain items that have sold out of the shops inside the parks!)

"Holiday Goodies and Menu Changes in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"News and Review! Holiday Menu Items at Earl of Sandwich" - Disney Food Blog; posted on November 12th, 2013 by Heather Sievers

Hotels (of the Disneyland Resort and beyond...)

(2013)

"Disney Food Blog – Seasonal Beverages at Disneyland Hotel’s Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on December 10th, 2013 by Kim

"Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar Gets in the Spirit of Holiday Season at the Disneyland Hotel" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 26th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Trader Sam’s Mixes Up Holiday Drinks" - wdwinfo; posted by Craig Williams on November 24, 2013

(2011)

"Make Your Own Wild Holiday Cocktails with Recipes from Trader Sam's at the Disneyland Hotel" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 13th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Bake Me A Cake - Tangaroa Terrace Sweet Potato Cake at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 17th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Jingle Jangle Jamboree

(2013)

"Dining in Disneyland: Treats at the Jingle Jangle Jamboree" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on December 18th, 2013 by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: The Fried Apple Burrito" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on Oct 28th, 2013 by Heather Sievers (The fried apple burrito first appeared during Halloween Time, and then stuck around during the holiday season and for the following Springtime/Easter season of 2014!)

(2012)

"Dining in Disneyland: Cookie Decorating at the Jingle Jangle Jamboree" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on December 21st, 2012 by Heather Sievers

"Dining in Disneyland: The Jingle Jangle Jamboree, Featuring MONTE CRISTO BITES" -- The Disney Food Blog; posted on November 19th, 2012 by Heather Sievers

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Dining Information

(Catal and Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney each offer special meals and menus for New Year's Eve and Day [including the "N’awlins Masquerade New Year's Eve Bash"], but those menus will not appear on their websites until closer to the holiday. You can also find special events and meals at Universal CityWalk, next to Universal Studios.)

2013 New Year's Eve Offerings at Disneyland Resort -- from The Mouse for Less.

"New Year's Eve 2013 / New Year's Day 2014 at the Disneyland Resort" - MousePlanet/MousePad; posted on December 30, 2013 by Adrienne Vincent-Phoenix

"Special New Year’s Eve Celebrations at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 9th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Thanksgiving Day Dining Information

Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen should have a special menu for Thanksgiving Day -- HERE.

Catal (in Downtown Disney) has released its Thanksgiving Day 2014 menu -- HERE.

Uva Bar, also in Downtown Disney, has a special November/Thanksgiving-themed burger and beer pairing -- HERE.

Naples in Downtown Disney has a Fall menu (which looks very much like its regular menu) -- HERE. However, I don't think it mentions the Cranberry Orange Cheesecake and Torta al Cioccolato that are also being served!

Tortilla Jo's is serving up Tres Leches cake, candied pumpkin flan and Churro y Arroz con Leche -- HERE.

Nearby, Knott's Berry Farm offers a special Thanksgiving feast as well. Here is Information on Knott's Berry Farm's 2014 Thanksgiving Meals.

(2014)

"Seasonal Delights for Thanksgiving at Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 26th, 2014 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2013)

"‘Limited Time Magic’ Thanksgiving Goodies Abound in Disney Theme Parks Coast to Coast" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 22nd, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Have a Tasty Thanksgiving, Disneyland Style" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 14th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Thanksgiving at DLR - reservations open (thread started by edna mode on DISboards' Disneyland forum)

(2012)

"Thanksgiving Galore at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 26th, 2012 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2011)

"Turkey Day Reservations Open at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 5th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2010)

"Dining in Disneyland: Disneyland Hotel Thanksgiving Feast" - Disney Food Blog; posted on Nov 29th, 2010 by AJ. Wolfe

(2009)

"A Disney Family Thanksgiving Feast" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 26th, 2009 by Heather Hust Rivera, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications, The Walt Disney Company

Three Kings Day

(2013)

VIDEO: "Making Pozole for Three Kings Day 2014 at Disney California Adventure" - DIS Unplugged; posted on January 3, 2014 by Tom Bell

(2012)

"Celebrate Three Kings Day at Disneyland Park with Special Menu Items" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 3rd, 2012 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Viva Navidad

(2014)

"Authentic Tastes for Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 10th, 2014 by Rachel Brent, Food & Beverage Marketing Communications Coordinator

"Hearty Pozole Soup, the Perfect Fall Supper from Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California Adventure Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 4th, 2014 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

(2013)

"Latin-Inspired Tastes for Disney ¡Viva Navidad! At Disney California Adventure Park" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 5th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

VIDEO: "Making Tamales at Viva Navidad! at Disney California Adventure 2013" -- The DIS; The DIS; posted on November 27, 2013 by Tom Bell

"Dining in Disneyland: NEW! Viva Navidad Snack Cart at Disney California Adventure" -- Disney Food Blog; posted November 21st, 2013 by Heather Sievers

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Holiday Shopping/Merchandise

(2014)

(2013)

(2012)

"Make Festive Mickey Mouse Nutcrackers Part of Your Holiday Traditions at Disney Parks" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 19th, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

"Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Tips at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 17th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

"Merchandise at Disney California Adventure Park is Definitely One For the Road" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 20th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

"Discover the Perfect Holiday Treasures at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 7th, 2012 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

"Special Offers on D-Tech and Ear Hat Ornaments For The Holidays at Disney Parks" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 22nd, 2012 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

(2011)

"Hanukkah-Inspired Gifts from Disney Parks" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 15th, 2011 by Erin Catalano, Merchandise Communication Specialist, Walt Disney World Resort

"Holiday Shopping at the Disneyland Resort" - DIS Unplugged; posted on December 14, 2011 by Mary Jo, Contributor/Correspondent

"Decorating Disney Style for the Holidays" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 30th, 2011 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

"Holiday Shopping at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 29th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Holiday Shopping Scoop at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 25th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

"Download the Disney Theme Park Merchandise Holiday Guide" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 25th, 2011 by Steven Miller, Merchandise Communications Manager

"Dazzling Holiday Dolls at Disneyland Park" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 10th, 2011 by Michelle Harker, Merchandise Marketing & Communications Project Manager, Disneyland Resort

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

The three hotels of the Disneyland Resort - The Disneyland Hotel, the Grand Californian Hotel and the Paradise Pier Hotel - get into the spirit of the holiday season too, complete with themed decorations, photo opportunities with Santa Claus and strolling carolers who entertain and delight guests. All of the hotels are within a short walking distance from the parks and Downtown Disney, so it is very easy to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Disneyland or California Adventure and enjoy the hotels' Yuletide atmosphere.

However, if you do plan to enjoy any of the Disneyland Resort hotels' holiday offerings, be aware that the hotels are usually not decorated by the official season start date. Typically, the hotels will receive their Christmas overlays by Thanksgiving weekend -- though, in a year when Thanksgiving falls late in the month, the decorations could appear earlier than usual -- with the Grand Californian being the first hotel to get its tree; the Disneyland Hotel being the second; and Paradise Pier being the last. If you want the full holiday experience - with the parks, hotels and Downtown Disney immersed in merriment - make sure to time your visit to arrive as close to Thanksgiving as possible, or after it ends.

Santa Claus will not begin greeting guests for the season until Thanksgiving, and he is gone from the 3 hotels after Christmas Eve.

The strolling Christmas carolers are usually gone within a couple of days after Christmas.

If you are a guest at one of the hotels, you can order special in-room celebration packages from Disney Floral & Gifts, including small Christmas trees and stockings, among other things.

General Holiday Season Blogs and Information

See the Disney Floral & Gifts page for further information about ordering miniature Christmas trees and other in-room celebration packages!

(2014)

"Santa Is Making the Rounds at Disney Parks" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 4th, 2014 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

"Christmas Trees of the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 28th, 2014 by Erin Glover, Social Media Director, Disneyland Resort

(2013)

"You’ve Got Mail … and Gifts from Disney Floral & Gifts" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 17th, 2013 by Jean Volante, Manager of Dream Making, Disney Floral & Gifts/DEG

(2012)

"Creating Holiday Memories at Disney Parks and at Home" (info about ordering gifts for hotel rooms) - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 21st, 2012 by Jean Volante, Manager of Dream Making, Disney Floral & Gifts/DEG

"Disneyland Hotel Christmas Amenities" - with pictures and details (November 2012 DISboards thread started by mo3bys, with photos of in-room celebration items)

(2011)

"VIDEO: Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Hotels" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 29th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Hotels" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 9th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

Disneyland Hotel

(When you check in as a guest at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels, ask for details about the Weekly "Magical Hotel Adventures", some of which may be specific to the holiday season, such as the "Merriest Holiday Hunt" and the "Winter Ornament Workshop," etc. "The Happiest Hotel on Earth Tour" of the Disneyland Hotel is a good way to not only learn about the history of the DLH, but to also see its many seasonal decorations. DIS'er rentayenta posted a photo of one of the December 2013 schedules for the Magical Hotel Adventures [in her Trip Report] - Here.)

(2013)

"Seasonal Beverages at Disneyland Hotel’s Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar" - Disney Food Blog; posted on December 10th, 2013 by Kim

"Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar Gets in the Spirit of Holiday Season at the Disneyland Hotel" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 26th, 2013 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Trader Sam’s Mixes Up Holiday Drinks" - The DIS; posted on November 24, 2013 by Craig Williams

(2011)

"Make Your Own Wild Holiday Cocktails with Recipes from Trader Sam's at the Disneyland Hotel" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 13th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

"Mele Kaliki Tiki at Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 1st, 2011 by Tom Fitzgerald, Executive VP & Senior Creative Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering

"Bake Me A Cake - Tangaroa Terrace Sweet Potato Cake at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 17th, 2011 by Pam Brandon, Disney Parks Food Writer

Santa Claus -- Where and When to Meet Him!

(2013 information -- Schedules will likely be similar or identical in 2014, starting on Thanksgiving and ending on Christmas Eve)

Where: Fantasy Tower (Across from the Grand Ballroom entrance)

When: Thursday, November 28, 2013 – Tuesday, December 24, 2013

4:30 p.m. – 4:55 p.m.
5:15 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
6:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
7:45 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Santa Claus' 2012 Meet and Greet Schedule at the 3 Hotels of the Disneyland Resort -- Information provided by Cheshirecatty

Grand Californian Hotel

(When you check in as a guest at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels, ask for details about the Weekly "Magical Hotel Adventures", some of which may be specific to the holiday season, such as the "Merriest Holiday Hunt" and the "Winter Ornament Workshop," etc. "The Art of the Craft Tour" of the Grand Californian Hotel may be a good way to not only learn about the history of the GCH, but to also see its seasonal decorations. DIS'er rentayenta posted a photo of one of the December 2013 schedules for the Magical Hotel Adventures [in her Trip Report] - Here.)

(2014)

"'Grand New' Gingerbread House at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa" -- The DIS; posted by Nancy Johnson on November 28, 2014

"News: Gingerbread House at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Debuting November 27th" -- Disney Food Blog; posted on Nov 24th, 2014 by Kim.

"First Look at the New Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on November 21st, 2014 by Rachel Brent, Food & Beverage Marketing Communications Coordinator

Santa Claus -- Where and When to Meet Him!

(2013 information -- Schedules will likely be similar or identical in 2014, starting on Thanksgiving and ending on Christmas Eve)

Where: Great Hall Christmas tree (the lobby, near the hearth)

When: Thursday, November 28, 2013 – Tuesday, December 24, 2013

4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
6:00 p.m. – 6:45 p.m.
7:00 p.m. – 7:40 p.m.
8:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Santa Claus' 2012 Meet and Greet Schedule at the 3 Hotels of the Disneyland Resort -- Information provided by Cheshirecatty

Paradise Pier Hotel

(When you check in as a guest at any of the Disneyland Resort hotels, ask for details about the Weekly "Magical Hotel Adventures", some of which may be specific to the holiday season, such as the "Merriest Holiday Hunt" and the "Winter Ornament Workshop," etc. DIS'er rentayenta posted a photo of one of the December 2013 schedules for the Magical Hotel Adventures [in her Trip Report] - Here.)

Santa Claus -- Where and When to Meet Him!

(2013 information -- Schedules will likely be similar or identical in 2014, starting on Thanksgiving and ending on Christmas Eve)

Where: Crystal Cove Foyer (lobby)

When: Thursday, November 28, 2013 – Tuesday, December 24, 2013

8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
9:20 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Santa Claus' 2012 Meet and Greet Schedule at the 3 Hotels of the Disneyland Resort -- Information provided by Cheshirecatty

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Downtown Disney

(Catal and Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen in Downtown Disney each offer special meals, menus and/or events for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day and New Year's Eve and Day [including the "Nawlins Masquerade New Year's Eve Bash"], but those menus and details will not appear on their websites until closer to the holidays.)

Anna & Elsa's Boutique

(This is not a holiday-specific location, although it will most likely feature seasonal merchandise and makeovers, and will be promoted heavily along with the "Frozen Fun" that is taking place in DCA and DL, as well as with Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink in Downtown Disney)

"The New Anna & Elsas Boutique in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort Will Give You Chills" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 20th, 2014 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Anna & Elsas Boutique Opens in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 6th, 2014 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Update: Anna & Elsas Boutique in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on September 16th, 2014 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

"Anna & Elsas Boutique and More Thrilling Transformations Coming to the Disneyland Resort" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on August 19th, 2014 by Michelle Harker, Manager, Merchandise Marketing & Communications, Disneyland Resort

Breakfast with Santa at Downtown Disney (at Catal Restaurant)

As of the Holidays of 2014, a new, limited "Breakfast with Santa at Downtown Disney" event (December 14, 20, 21, 22 and 23) is being introduced at Catal restaurant (making it Santa's 6th photo spot at Disneyland Resort), and the meal price includes vouchers for ice skating at Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink. Info can be found -- HERE

Holiday Gingerbread House Building Workshop at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen

(2014)

Dates:

Saturday, December 13 - 12 pm - 2 pm
Sunday, December 14 - 12 pm - 2 pm
Saturday, December 20 - 12 pm - 2 pm
Sunday, December 21 - 12 pm - 2 pm

Tickets will be available on November 10th, 2014.

$48 per Gingerbread Kit (plus tax & online service fees)
Price of Kit Includes 2 seats
Additional Seats May be Purchased for $12 per seat
Advance Payment by Credit Card Required
Refunds: only with a 72 hour notice of the date selected

More info on the Jazz Kitchen website -- HERE.

(2013 details)

figment_jii's recap/review of the 2013 Gingerbread Workshop, with photos -- HERE.

2013 Info on the Jazz Kitchen Holiday Gingerbread Workshop.

Holiday Gingerbread Houses at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen (November 1, 2013, article for D23 members regarding event on December 22, 2013)

The dates for the 2013 Workshop were: Saturday, December 14; Sunday, December 15; Saturday, December 21; and Sunday, December 22 (12/22 is for D23 members only).

Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink and Winter Village

(2014)

*From November 13, 2014, through February 22, 2015, Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink and the Downtown Disney Winter Village will be open. The rink's skating sessions can be scheduled between 3:00 PM and 10:00 PM on Sundays through Thursdays, and between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

"Frozen Winter and Holiday Celebration Underway at Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort with Olafs Frozen Ice Rink and Downtown Disney Winter Village Through February 22" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 2nd, 2014 by John McClintock, Disney Public Relations

(2013)

"VIDEO: Olafs Frozen Ice Rink in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 10th, 2013 by Shannon Swanson, Senior Publicist, Disneyland Resort

VIDEO: Olaf's Ice Rink (Downtown Disney) - DIS Unplugged; posted by Tom Bell November 20, 2013

"Hit the Ice This Holiday Season at the Downtown Disney Winter Village at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 25th, 2013 by John McClintock, Disney Public Relations

(2012)

"The Secret of the Wings Ice Skating Rink Now Open at the Disneyland Resort" - DIS Unplugged; by Mary Jo, Contributor/Correspondent, November 9, 2012

"Ice Skating Rink Officially Opens in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 24th, 2012 by Janet Knox, General Manager, Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Resort

"Disneyland Resort Guests Will Soon be Ice Skating at the Downtown Disney District" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on October 12th, 2012 by Janet Knox, General Manager, Downtown Disney District, Disneyland Resort

Other Things to Do/See in Downtown Disney

(2014)

*The Disneyland Carolers will perform in Downtown Disney on December 5th and December 16th through 25th.

*The Anaheim Ballet will perform scenes from The Nutcracker in Downtown Disney on December 5th and 19th.

(2011)

"TUBACHRISTMAS Coming to Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Celebrate the Holidays at the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 16th, 2011 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Downtown Disney Holiday Trees to be Donated to Local Military Families" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 6th, 2011 by Betsy Sanchez, Manager of Media Relations, Disneyland Resort

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Other Holiday Activities to Do/Things to See Around Southern California
(because it doesn't hurt to leave Disneyland Resort once in a while!)

****LINKS FOR SEASON-SPECIFIC EVENTS GIVEN BELOW MAY BECOME INACTIVE AFTER THE HOLIDAY SEASON ENDS, AND THEN ACTIVE AGAIN CLOSER TO THE NEXT HOLIDAY SEASON****

Knott's Merry Farm (in Buena Park, CA -- Orange County)

General Information about Knott's Merry Farm on About.com

Knott's Merry Farm's home page

Information about Knott's Berry/Merry Farm's Thanksgiving Dining

"Christmas at Knott's Merry Farm" - blog by Wayne Toigo (DIS Unplugged), December 8, 2012

DIS Unplugged Podcast segment about Knott's Merry Farm (December 2, 2012)

"Knott's Merry Farm Creates Holiday Memories for the Entire Family" - press release; posted November 6, 2012

"Knott's Merry Farm's Christmas Crafts Fair" - blog by Mary Jo (DIS Unplugged), December 6, 2011

Tournament of Roses Parade (in Pasadena) on New Year's Day

Rose Parade – Post-Parade Showcase of Floats – Thursday, January 1, 2015

Tournament of Roses Parade -- Thursday, January 1, 2015

Float Decorating/Viewing (Pre-Parade) -- December 27 - December 31, 2014

DIS Unplugged Podcast segment with Mary Jo discussing the Rose Parade -- November 7, 2013

"Destination: Cars Land Makes its Rose Parade Debut" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 2nd, 2013 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

"Rose Parade Fans Floored by Destination: Cars Land Float" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on January 1st, 2013 by Erin Glover, Manager, Social Media and Print

"Destination: 124th Rose Parade" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 31st, 2012 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

"The Cars Land Rose Parade Float is Lookin' Good!" - Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 28th, 2012 by Valarie Sukovaty, Disneyland Public Relations

"What Does it Take to Bring Cars Land to Life as a Rose Parade Float?" - DIS Unplugged; by Nancy Johnson, Contributor/Correspondent, December 30, 2012

Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk

(Grinchmas is a very popular yearly holiday event at USH, and it usually begins after Thanksgiving and lasts until the end of December; CityWalk is the Universal equivalent of Downtown Disney, and features events for the holiday season, including New Year's Eve.)

Detailed info about Grinchmas from About.com

Universal Studios Hollywood's Grinchmas

Holidays at Universal CityWalk -- including nightly snowfall and Santa's Snow Zone

More Holiday Activities Around Southern California

"Local Holiday Events to Complement Your Disneyland Vacation - Part 1" - blog by Nancy Johnson (DIS Unplugged), December 7, 2011

"Local Holiday Events to Complement Your Disneyland Vacation - Part 2" - blog by Nancy Johnson (DIS Unplugged), December 8, 2011

Beverly Center (shopping center near Beverly Hills)

Beverly Center 2014 Holidays (including Ice Palace, Santa, etc.)

Beverly Hills

Holidays in Beverly Hills

Joy to the Hills 2014 (including snowfall, Santa, carolers, ice skating, Menorah lighting, holiday dining, shopping, etc.) Dates will vary for different events

Chill (at the Queen Mary)

Queen Mary - Chill -- "SoCal's only frozen holiday adventure"

Christmas Lights in Los Angeles

An interesting blog about where to find Christmas light displays around L.A. can be found -- Here.

Christmas Train at Irvine Park Railroad (located in Irvine, California -- in Orange County)

The Christmas Train takes place on multiple days/nights. Information on this event can be found here.

(The Original) Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax (historical shopping/dining area next door to The Grove)

Farmers Market Hanukkah Celebration (Celebrate Hanukkah with the building of giant Lego menorah, live music, crafts and a special menorah lighting ceremony)

Farmers Market Holiday Festivities (music, arts & crafts, variety shows, strolling carolers, etc. - decorations go up in late November)

The Grove (shopping center next to the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles)

American Girl Place at The Grove in Los Angeles (there are many holiday activities and events held at this location in both November and December -- see website for details)

Celebrate the Season at The Grove -- Monday, November 17, 2014 - Wednesday, December 24, 2014 (certain events end after 12/24; decorations usually stay up until early January)

Photos of The Grove and the Original Farmers Market during the holiday season can be found -- HERE.

Hollywood Christmas Parade -- Sunday, November 30, 2014

http://thehollywoodchristmasparade.org/

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade (Orange County)

Information can be found -- Here.

Nutcracker Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Village (in Downtown Anaheim -- Orange County, CA)

Information is Here.

Winter Holiday Festival (Downtown Los Angeles)

Info can be found -- Here.

Winterlit (including ICE) (in Los Angeles/Santa Monica)

Info can be found -- Here.

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Trip Reviews, Recaps and Reports!!!

(These holiday travelers decked the halls, jingled the bells and walked in a winter wonderland...and now they are sharing their experiences with you!)

:santa:

2014 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

December 2014

ARIELvsURSULA experienced the holidays at DLR for the first time and checked in live -- HERE.

dalstitch45 visited in late Nov/early December and shared a few thoughts -- HERE.

disneygrandma experienced Disneyland Resort during the holidays for the first time ever, and reported back on her trip -- HERE.

DisneylandPlanner checked in live from DLR, and shared these photos -- HERE and HERE, and also updated on crowds -- HERE.

flyingdumbo127 attended her first Candlelight Ceremony on 12/6/14 and reported back to us -- HERE.

Jenasweetemotion started her holiday trip at the end of November, but most of it took place in early December. She shared photos -- HERE and HERE. She also gave us a detailed recap of her trip, including some high points and low points -- HERE.

MinnieLovesMickey reported live from DLR -- HERE.

tksbaskets experienced her first Disneyland holiday trip without her kids. She offered some quick thoughts -- HERE.

tlovesdis commented on the crowds on 12/6/14 -- HERE.

xApril, a WDW vet, visited DLR for the first time and gave us a brief recap -- HERE.

November 2014

cseca tried the Thanksgiving Feast at the Disneyland Hotel and shared her experiences -- HERE.

dedesmith32's "It's a Jolly Holiday Surprise! December 2014 - Trip Report" (Trip Report)

DharmaLou had a not-so-great experience staying at the Disneyland Hotel, and recapped it for us -- HERE.

Disney127 visited in November 2014 and checked in live from DLR with updates -- HERE and HERE.

DisneyJamieCA visited DLR from November 19-25, 2014, and checked in with us live -- HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE.

DisneyJamieCA also gave us a detailed review/recap of her trip when she returned home -- HERE.

DisneyJamieCA shared photos -- HERE and HERE.

dolphingirl47 experienced her first Disneyland holiday season and gave a brief review -- HERE -- as well as a more detailed review -- HERE. (Her trip included Thanksgiving and the Thanksgiving Feast at the Disneyland Hotel).

dsneygirl experienced Disneyland Resort's holiday season for the first time, and gave a recap -- HERE.

dsneygirl shared photos -- HERE, HERE and HERE

egritz checked in live from DLR during her November 2014 trip and posted updates -- HERE (11/16), HERE (11/17), HERE (11/18), and HERE (11/19) and HERE.

figment_jii visited DLR shortly after the holiday season officially began in November, and shared these photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

figment_jii also shared some good information regarding souvenirs -- HERE -- and regarding the Anna and Elsa meet and greet -- HERE.

funatdisney shared these photos -- HERE.

grnflash's "Our Holiday Trip Tips" (November 2014)

hclifford visited DLR over the Avengers marathon weekend in November 2014 and shared a recap -- HERE.

JadeDarkstar's (and CaptBane's) November Trip Report (2014) (Trip Report)

kylie71 shared photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

liesel visited Disneyland over the Avengers marathon weekend in November 2014 and gave her recaps/thoughts -- HERE and HERE.

Misskitty3 visited the parks just before the holidays officially began in November, and she posted her thoughts and photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

Mouseketeers4 shared these photos of the Paradise Pier Hotel tree -- HERE and HERE.

mvf-m11c was at DLR over the first official holiday season weekend in November, which also coincided with the Avengers Marathon weekend. See his photos -- HERE, HERE and HERE.

mvf-m11c's "4th Annual Holiday Trip to DL in November" (2014) (Trip Report)

NJShoreDad experienced Disneyland's holiday season for the first time, and also enjoyed Thanksgiving in the parks and hotels. His review can be found -- HERE.

Orbitron enjoyed Disneyland's holiday season for the second time, dined at the Thanksgiving Day Feast at the Disneyland Hotel, and gave us a recap of the trip -- HERE.

petals gave a brief review of her trip -- HERE.

petals' "For the first time in like ever I'm going to Disneyland a Nov 14 TR." (Trip Reports)

Sailorwife's Review of the Holiday Time Tour (November 2014; 2:55 p.m.) -- HERE.

2013 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

ashnjam's "Our First Disney Christmas Trip!" (December 2013)

danimaroo's "That's the 30th time we've heard that song.. A GRAND Xmas Adventure! Nov 13 TR!"

Delilah1310's "We survived Thanksgiving week ... and you can too!" (November 2013)

DizNee Luver's " *+*+*Dreams Can Come True*+*+* Club 33 Trip Report" (December 2013)

egritz's Trip Recaps (December 2013) -- HERE, HERE and HERE.

farmfresh's "Holiday magic & some nightmares before Xmas-a quick review of our weekend trip" (December 2013)

julieheyer's Trip Recap (December 2013) -- HERE.

KCmike's "A Disneyland Christmas Movie - Trip Report" (November 2013)

mom2rtk's "We Defected to the West! DLR 2013" -- a December 2013 Trip Report

mvf-m11c's "Our 3rd Annual Holiday Trip to DL in November - November 22nd - 24th, 2013" (starts Post #3222)

mvf-m11c's "Braving the Crowds after Christmas at Disneyland with Family & Friends" - 12/26/13 - 12/29/13 -- begins HERE (post #3334), and continues HERE (separate thread).

Pesky's "The good, the bad, the pixie dust and a big ol' thank you -- long mini review" (December 2013)

PHXscuba's "A Club 33 Christmas" (December 2013) -- Starts in post #565 on page 38

rentayenta's "Not too shabby for a consolation prize! A Dec 2013 TR!"

Sherry E's Recap from November 15, 2013 -- HERE.

the_princess' "Just got back from christmas trip

NOW WITH PICTURES" (December 2013 trip)

wonderfuller's "I Survived NYE at the DLR!" (December 31, 2013)

2012 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

ArchOwl's "How I did NYE at the DLR! You can do it, too!" (NYE 2012)

BensDaddy's "Disneyland and GCR Villas - Week After Thanksgiving" (2012)

danimaroo's "The Wettest, Merriest, and Happiest Birthday/First Visit Nov/Dec 2012 TR!" (*Note - lots of pictures, and review of the famous Disneyland Candy Canes!)

DizNee Luver's "10 Mths of WDW Planning leads us to~~DISNEYLAND!!" (December 2012) (*Note - lots of pictures, including Christmas Fantasy Parade, the famous Disneyland candy canes, It's a Small World Holiday, etc.!)

Elk Grove Chris' "Nov 20-24" (2012) (*Note - Includes pictures from Thanksgiving Day at DLR)

Escape2Disney's "The Absolutely Amazing, Magical Christmas Adventure!" (December 2012) (*Note - includes Club 33 pictures!)

JediMasterNerd's review/recap of a December 2012 trip (including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) - HERE and HERE

JediMasterNerd's partial list of special menus for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day - HERE

luvslikepi's "Trip Report!! Updated 12/12- December 7-9 Impulsive Holiday Trip" (2012)

mariezp's "Pre-Trip Report: Turkey Day with the Mouse 2012"

Mickey&JoshNut's review/recap of a December 2012 trip (including Christmas) - HERE

Mommy2PrincessAbby's "Operation Disney in December--PTR followed by TR!" (2012)

mvf-m11c's "Our 2nd Annual Early Holiday Trip to DL in November - 11/16-18/12" (2012) - begins on Page 169/Post #2528 (*Note - Lots of pictures, including great fireworks shots!)

pixleyyy's WE'RE CANCELLING CHRISTMAS (Take 2) - Dec 4-8, 2012 (*Note - WDW vet's first trip to DLR for the holidays; lots of pictures)

tksbaskets' "Our Disneyland New Year's Park-Hopping Half-Marathon! 12/31/11-1/7/12" (*Note - Includes Holiday Tour pictures and review)

yupikgal's "~*3 Adults Jingle Jangle Nov-30 to Dec 3*~" (2012)

2011 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

DizNee Luver's "Hubby got a Camera & I got Christmas!!!" (December 2011) (*Note - Lots of pictures, including Holiday Tour pics and review. Christmas Fantasy Parade, etc.!)

mvf-m11c's "Our Annual Holiday Trip to DL 11/18/11 - 11/20/11" - begins on Page 93/Post #1385 (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

rentayenta's "Strike yer colors, you brazen wench! No need to expose yer superstructure! Nov 27-30, 2011"

2010 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

Belle Ella's "Jazz's Very Merry Holiday - December 5-8, 2010" (starts Post #114)

Belle Ella's "Jazz's Rockin' New Year - December 31, 2010 - January 6, 2011" (starts Post #399)

FlameGirl's "FlameGirl and family's PHOTO HEAVY 2010 Christmas marathon TR" (starts Post #64)

Mariezp's "It Only Took 5 Months to Finish Trip Report - November 10-26, 2010"

MattsPrincess' "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Disneyland, November 18-22 2010" (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

mvf-m11c's "Holiday Trip to DLR - 11/18/10 - 11/20/10" (starts Post # 131) (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

mvf-m11c's DLR Holiday videos

specialks' "Great Glad Tidings Tell - Dec 7-14, 2010"

TheColtonsMom's "1129 light years to Disneyland but we got there" (Holiday 2010 report)

2009 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

deejdigsdis' "It's 3 Trips In 1!" (Christmas 2009 TR begins Post #1) (*Note - Lots of pictures!)

tksbaskets' "Our Toy Story Midway Mania Christmas Vacation 12/26/09- 1/1/2010 (2009 Holiday tour & NYE at Disney Land)" (*Note - Includes Holiday Tour pictures and review!)

2008 Reviews/Recaps/Reports

Mariezp's "They've Been Some Long Ones! Nov. 9-23, 2008"

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Photo Links and Photo-Related Info

:santa:

Photos -- Holiday Season 2014

DisneyJamieCA shared photos -- HERE and HERE.

DisneylandPlanner checked in live from DLR, and shared these photos -- HERE and HERE.

dsneygirl shared photos -- HERE, HERE and HERE

figment_jii visited DLR shortly after the holiday season officially began in November, and shared these photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

funatdisney shared these photos -- HERE.

Jenasweetemotion shared these photos -- HERE and HERE.

kylie71 shared photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

Misskitty3 visited the parks just before the holidays officially began in November, and she posted her thoughts and photos -- HERE, HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE.

Mouseketeers4 shared these photos of the Paradise Pier Hotel tree -- HERE and HERE.

mvf-m11c was at DLR over the first official holiday season weekend in November, which also coincided with the Avengers Marathon weekend. See his photos -- HERE, HERE and HERE.

Sherry E posted holiday photos of The Grove and the Original Farmers Market, from Thanksgiving 2014 -- HERE.

Holiday Character Locations (Seasonal Characters and/or Characters Dressed in Holiday Outfits)!

California Adventure

(Buena Vista Street)

Goofy, Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, etc., wear holiday attire in various locations around BVS

Santa greets guests at Elias & Co.

(Cars Land)

Mater wears a Santa hat and poses for photos near the Cozy Cone

(Paradise Pier)

The Gazebo/Christmas tree on the Pier (you will often find Santa Mickey or another character in holiday attire at this spot)

Viva Navidad (You can find Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and the Three Caballeros in festive themed garb)

Disneyland

(Critter Country)

At Pooh's photo spot, the Pooh characters wear Santa hats or winter scarves)

(Frontierland)

Jingle Jangle Jamboree (In addition to being one of Santa's locations around Disneyland Resort, the JJJ also features characters including: Santa Goofy, Pluto, Mickey & Minnie, Chip & Dale, etc.)

(Main Street)

Town Square (the characters -- including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Donald, Chip & Dale, and sometimes Daisy) wear winter sweaters)

Minnie & Friends Character Breakfast at Plaza Inn -- Although it is not consistent, some of the characters at this meal have been known to occasionally wear a bit of seasonal clothing in the past.

(Mickey's Toontown)

In the past, winter sweater-clad characters could be found here on and off throughout the day. I'm not sure if the characters in Toontown are still wearing seasonal clothing.

(New Orleans Square)

Jack Skellington (with or without Sally) can usually be found near Haunted Mansion Holiday during the Holidays at DLR

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Santa Claus greets guests at all 3 hotels (see Hotels of the Disneyland Resort post above ^^ for more info)

Holiday-Specific PhotoPass Locations (with or without characters)

California Adventure

Buena Vista Street Christmas Tree (also at a couple of the character locations)

Cars Land

Carthay Circle

Paradise Pier Christmas tree

Viva Navidad

Disneyland

Critter Country (with Pooh and friends)

Jingle Jangle Jamboree

Main Street Christmas Tree

Town Square

Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle (day and night)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Hotel (Santa Claus' location in the Fantasy Tower and at the artificial gingerbread Castle in the Fantasy Tower)

Grand Californian Hotel tree (Santa Claus)

Santa Claus - Where to Meet Him Around Disneyland Resort!

Blogs and Information

"Santa Is Making the Rounds at Disney Parks" -- Disney Parks Blog; posted on December 4th, 2014 by Shawn Slater, Communications Manager, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Creative Entertainment

Santa Claus can usually be found at: the Jingle Jangle Jamboree in Disneyland; Elias & Co. in California Adventure; at the Grand Californian Hotel; at the Disneyland Hotel; and at the Paradise Pier Hotel. Schedules at each location may vary.

As of the Holidays of 2014, a limited "Breakfast with Santa at Downtown Disney" event (December 14, 20, 21, 22 and 23) was introduced at Catal restaurant in DTD (making it Santa's 6th photo spot at Disneyland Resort), and the meal price includes vouchers for ice skating at Olaf's Frozen Ice Rink. Info can be found -- HERE.

See this post and this post from the previous Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthreads for details about and photos of 5 of Santa's photo spots around Disneyland Resort.

Also see the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort post -- HERE -- for Santa's schedule at each hotel.

Off-property, but nearby, there is another Breakfast with Santa event taking place on Saturday, December 13th at the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Anaheim GardenWalk. See more info -- HERE.

Not far away, at Knott's Berry/Merry Farm, yet another "Breakfast with Santa" event is taking place at Mrs. Knott's (on December 6, 13 and 20). See more info -- HERE.

Theme Week Countdowns (2014, 2013, 2012, 2011)!

In the summer – approximately late July or early August – I will kick off our annual Theme Week Countdown in this thread. This is something I began in 2011 as a way to showcase all of the aspects of the seasonal details at Disneyland Resort for both newcomers and repeat holiday visitors alike, while counting down to the official start date of the new season in November. The Theme Week Countdown – which is exclusive to this specific thread – highlights a different theme each week (for example, Cars Land Week), and many of our DIS’ers contribute to the themes by sharing their beautiful photos over the course of 3 months. Anyone is welcome to participate and share photos if they have visited DLR for the holidays.

In 2013, I added in a contest element to the Theme Week Countdown -- for both photo contributors and non-photo participants -- and 2 DIS’ers won Disney gift cards. Three DIS'ers won gift cards in 2014. Stay tuned to this thread for details on the 2015 Theme Week Countdown when we get a bit closer to July!

Below you will find links to the Introduction/photo posts for each theme in all of the Countdowns we have done since 2011. To view all of the contributors' beautiful photos that were posted to each theme, I recommend clicking on each link below and then entering the thread from each specific post so you don't have to search through the thread to find the photos of a designated theme.

For example, if you click on "Holiday Characters, PhotoPass and Santa Claus Photos" below, the Intro/Photo post for that theme will open. From within that post, click on the link to the thread in the upper right corner -- which will take you to the exact point in the thread at which the Theme begins, and you can follow the pages from that point forward to view all of the images.

(2014 Countdown -- Total: 22 themes; Gift card winners: marlana323, who played the Code Word Challenge; mvf-m11c, who was chosen in the Random Draw; and krispin41, who was also chosen in the Random Draw)

Rules and Other Things to Know Before Joining the Theme Week Countdown -- HERE and HERE.

Post-Countdown Stats -- HERE.

Holiday Characters, PhotoPass and Santa Claus Photos (Monday, July 21, 2014)

A Christmas Fantasy Parade and Believe...In Holiday Magic Fireworks (Monday, July 28, 2014)

It's a Small World Holiday and Fantasyland (Monday, August 4, 2014)

Buena Vista Street and Hollywood Land (Monday, August 11, 2014)

Mickey's Toontown (Monday, August 18, 2014)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort (Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian Hotel and Paradise Pier Hotel) (Monday, August 25, 2014)

Cars Land (Monday, September 1, 2014)

New Orleans Square and Haunted Mansion Holiday (Monday, September 8, 2014)

Main Street and Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle (Monday, September 15, 2014)

Frontierland and the Jingle Jangle Jamboree (a.k.a. Santa's Reindeer Roundup) (Monday, September 22, 2014)

Christmas Trees and Wreaths (Monday, September 29, 2014)

Pacific Wharf and Paradise Pier (including Winter Dreams and Viva Navidad) (Monday, October 6, 2014)

Disneyland Resort -- Holidays Gone By (a.k.a. Seasonal Things That Are Not There Anymore!) (Monday, October 13, 2014)

Holiday Treats and Treasures (a.k.a. Holiday Food/Snacks & Souvenirs/Merchandise!) (Monday, October 20, 2014)

Jingle Cruise (Monday, October 27, 2014)

Critter Country & Grizzly Peak (Tuesday, October 28, 2014)

Holiday Horticulture (a.k.a. Holiday Flowers and Plants) (Wednesday, October 29, 2014)

A Bug's Land (Thursday, October 30, 2014)

Halloween Time (a.k.a. When Holidays Collide) (Friday, October 31, 2014)

Downtown Disney (Saturday, November 1, 2014)

The Candlelight Ceremony and Processional (Sunday, November 2, 2014)

Holiday Cornucopia (These Are a Few of My Favorite Things) (Monday, November 3, 2014)

(2013 Countdown -- Total: 20 themes; Gift card winners: ksromack, who played the Code Word Challenge; and Mickeybell, who won in the Random Draw)

Post-Countdown Stats -- HERE.

Disneyland Resort Christmas Trees & Wreaths (Monday, August 5, 2013)

New Orleans Square/Haunted Mansion Holiday (Monday, August 12, 2013)

It's a Small World Holiday/Fantasyland (Monday, August 19, 2013)

Main Street/Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle (Monday, August 26, 2013)

A Christmas Fantasy Parade/Believe...In Holiday Magic Fireworks (Monday, September 2, 2013)

Mickey's Toontown (Monday, September 9, 2013)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort (Monday, September 16, 2013)

Frontierland/Jingle Jangle Jamboree/Reindeer Round-Up (Monday, September 23, 2013)

Holiday Treats and Treasures (a.k.a. Food and Merchandise) (Monday, September 30, 2013)

Holiday Characters/PhotoPass/Santa Claus (Monday, October 7, 2013)

Buena Vista Street/Hollywood Land (Monday, October 14, 2013)

Cars Land (Monday, October 21, 2013)

Holidays Gone By (a.k.a. Holiday Stuff That Is Not There Anymore) (Monday, October 28, 2013)

Candlelight Ceremony/Processional (Tuesday, October 29, 2013)

Holiday Flowers and Plants (Wednesday, October 30, 2013)

Critter Country/Grizzly Peak (Thursday, October 31, 2013)

A Bug's Land (Friday, November 1, 2013)

Pacific Wharf/Paradise Pier (Saturday, November 2, 2013)

Downtown Disney (Sunday, November 3, 2013)

Holiday Cornucopia (Monday, November 4, 2013)

(2012 Countdown -- Total: 18 themes)

Main Street (Monday, August 27, 2012)

California Adventure (Monday, September 3, 2012)

Santa's Reindeer Round-Up (Monday, September 10, 2012)

Haunted Mansion Holiday (Monday, September 17, 2012)

New Orleans Square (Monday, September 24, 2012)

It's a Small World Holiday (Monday, October 1, 2012)

A Christmas Fantasy Parade/Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks (Monday, October 8, 2012)

Mickey's Toontown (Monday, October 15, 2012)

Christmas Trees/Tree Quest (Monday, October 22, 2012)

Treats & Treasures (Monday, October 29, 2012)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort (Monday, November 5, 2012)

Flowers & Plants (Tuesday, November 6, 2012)

Frontierland and Critter Country (Wednesday, November 7, 2012)

PhotoPass (Thursday, November 8, 2012)

Character Holiday Photos (Friday, November 9, 2012)

Holiday Wreaths (Saturday, November 10, 2012)

Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle (Sunday, November 11, 2012)

Holiday Cornucopia (Monday, November 12, 2012)

(2011 Countdown -- Total: 18 themes)

Santa's Reindeer Round-Up (Monday, August 29, 2011)

Main Street (Monday, September 5, 2011)

New Orleans Square (Monday, September 12, 2011)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort (Monday, September 19, 2011)

It's a Small World Holiday (Monday, September 26, 2011)

Toontown (Monday, October 3, 2011)

Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks and A Christmas Fantasy Parade (Monday, October 10, 2011)

Holiday Treats and Treasures (Monday, October 17, 2011)

Frontierland and Critter Country (Monday, October 24, 2011)

Haunted Mansion Holiday/Nightmare Before Christmas (Monday, October 31, 2011)

California Adventure (Monday, November 7, 2011)

Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle (Tuesday, November 8, 2011)

Christmas Trees (Wednesday, November 9, 2011)

Wreaths (Thursday, November 10, 2011)

Character Holiday Photos (Friday, November 11, 2011)

Holiday Flowers and Plants (Saturday, November 12, 2011)

Holiday PhotoPass Pictures (Sunday, November 13, 2011)

Holiday Bonanza - Potpourri (Monday, November 14, 2011)

Gisele · Jan 2, 2014

Sherry E said:
12

Are these like page markers?

Sherry E · Jan 2, 2014

Gisele said:
Are these like page markers?

Post markers for me! I had to copy all of the existing info on page 1 from the previous Superthread over to this one, but sometimes, as the year goes along, I like to rework things, rearrange things or add in new categories -- some such thing -- and it helps to have a few extra empty posts on page 1 to use for that purpose. So I marked/reserved a few extra posts just in case I need them for something down the road!

Anyway -- you're the first person in the new thread, so...WELCOME! :cool1:

Gisele · Jan 2, 2014

Thank you.

It is a major undertaking for you to do all of the work that you do for this thread. And I, like countless numbers of other people, I am certain, appreciate and marvel at the time, effort and editing, that you spend, in order to have this super thread exist to begin with and thrive. It's almost as if this super thread becomes some kind of being, taking on a life all its own.

Thank you so very much!

dolphingirl47 · Jan 2, 2014

Checking in. I never thought that this thread would hit the page limit before the Halloween one did.

Corinna

tksbaskets · Jan 2, 2014

I've subbed in. Sherry I love the pictures with either black or holiday frames that you've started each section with. Just great. :thumbsup2

You've out done yourself on this new thread that is certain to become a favorite destination for many DISers! :santa:

KCmike · Jan 2, 2014

I'm here as well. Kudos to Sherry for all the hard work on this thread. It has to be a labor of love for sure!

Thanks again for all the kind words about our Christmas video from this past year. Wow crazy to say past year! In case you didn't see it here is the link one last time...I also put it in the trip reports thread as well.

http://youtu.be/sZFw_Z9BrH4

Happy New Year everybody.

DisneyJamieCA · Jan 2, 2014

I'm so excited to get to follow this thread again this year! And knowing we start the countdown the end of Aug/beginning of Sept (right?) makes it feel like the year won't be that long! Thanks again Sherry for putting this all together!

crystal1313 · Jan 2, 2014

Thanks Sherry! So excited to participate again!

Sherry E

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Sherry E

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Sherry E

Currently tag-less...

Sherry E

Currently tag-less...

Sherry E

Currently tag-less...

Sherry E

Currently tag-less...

Sherry E

Currently tag-less...

Sherry E

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Gisele

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Sherry E

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Gisele

The real LA bayou

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In Search of the Tag Fairy

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Never have fallen asleep on any

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