Top 5 Things to do at Disneyland during Halloween

It’s that time of the year again…Halloween at Disneyland!! It is one of our favorite seasons at the resort that combines the charm of Disney with the thrills of Halloween. If you’re planning a visit, here are the top 5 things to do at Disneyland during Halloween:

1. Meeting Halloween-Themed Characters:

One of the most exciting aspects of Halloween at Disneyland is the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters decked out in their finest Halloween attire. From Mickey and Minnie in their adorable costumes to villains like Maleficent and the Evil Queen, encountering these characters adds an extra layer of delight to your visit. Be sure to have your camera ready for some unforgettable photo opportunities. To find them, open the Disneyland app, click on the map, then choose characters.

2. Indulging in Halloween-Themed Food:

A trip to Disneyland during Halloween is a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds. Throughout the park, you’ll find an array of delectable treats designed to capture the spirit of the season. From pumpkin-spiced churros to ghost-shaped macarons, these Halloween-themed delights are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. There are not as many gluten-free options, but usually macarons, Rice Krispie treats, some shakes and other items are gluten-free. Always make sure to check in with the manager at the restaurant.

3. Embarking on Halloween-Themed Rides:

For thrill-seekers and fans of spooky stories alike, Disneyland offers a range of Halloween-themed rides that are sure to give you chills and thrills. Don’t miss the chance to experience “Guardians of the Galaxy: Monsters After Dark,” a special Halloween overlay of the popular ride, only available from 3pm-10pm. Another must-visit attraction is the “Haunted Mansion Holiday,” where the classic Haunted Mansion ride receives a whimsical makeover inspired by Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” I highly suggest doing either a lightening lane for this ride, or getting there at park open and having this be your first stop! Other favorites include Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween and Tow Mater’s Graveyard Jamboree.

4. Immersing Yourself in Halloween Decor:

Disneyland is known for its elaborate and immersive decorations, and Halloween is no exception. As you stroll through the park, you’ll be greeted by a spellbinding array of pumpkins & fall decor that transforms the park into a Halloween wonderland. Main Street, U.S.A., is my personal favorite, with its iconic Winky the giant pumpkin and orange bunting flags lining the storefronts (Cars Land at DCA would have to be a close second).

5. Exploring the California Grand Hotel Halloween Display:

While you’re at the Disneyland Resort, be sure to take a detour to the California Grand Hotel. The lobby of this luxurious hotel comes alive with an astonishing Halloween display, made out of gingerbread, and is a fun game of hidden Mickey’s. This immersive display is a true feast for the eyes and an experience you won’t want to miss. Plus, we love sitting by the huge fireplace and listening to the live piano music.

Honorable Halloween MentionS:

Halloween Screams Firework Show:

For an unforgettable nighttime spectacle, catch the “Halloween Screams” firework show. This dazzling display combines Disney’s beloved characters, haunting music, and fun pyrotechnics. It only gets an honorable mention because it starts so late and most younger kids are melting down by 9:30, then you have to navigate through pretty large crowds to get out of the park after it is over.

Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit:

If you’re visiting with young children, don’t forget to explore Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit at Downtown Disney, a delightful scavenger hunt that’s perfect for little ones. This is a great activity if you don’t have a park ticket. Then you can head to the California Grand Hotel afterwards to see the lobby and finish off the night by grabbing a festive shake at Black Tap.

Watch “A Musical Celebration of Coco” Show at Plaza de Familia:

Located in the back of California Adventure near the Plaza de Familia is a super sweet and fun show. Based on the Pixar movie, Coco, street performers sing and dance throughout the day to the popular songs from the film. It is definitely worth a stop to watch. Check the Disneyland app for show times and get there about 10-15 minutes to get a good viewing spot.

Disneyland during Halloween offers a unique and fun experience that’s perfect for visitors of all ages. From meeting your favorite characters in their Halloween finery to indulging in delectable treats and enjoying specially themed rides, there’s no shortage of activities to make your visit memorable. So get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Halloween at the happiest place on Earth!

Have you ever been to Disneyland during the Halloween season? Want to know if Oogie Boogie tickets are worth the extra money? Check out that blog post HERE. Looking for tickets to Disneyland? Check out this affiliate link for discount tickets with Get Away Today!