Disneyland Halloween Guide 2024
- 5 min reading time
Welcome, ghouls and goblins, to the ultimate guide for experiencing Halloween at Disneyland in 2024! Whether you’re a seasoned Disney enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you navigate the spooktacular festivities, attractions, and treats that make Disneyland the happiest haunt on Earth during the Halloween season.
When to Visit
Halloween Time at Disneyland typically runs from early September through October 31st. For 2024, the festivities are expected to kick off on September 6th and continue until Halloween night. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, so if you can swing a mid-week visit, you’ll likely enjoy shorter lines and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Must-See Attractions
Haunted Mansion Holiday
One of the crown jewels of Disneyland’s Halloween transformation is the Haunted Mansion Holiday. This beloved attraction gets a spooky makeover inspired by Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Jack Skellington and his friends from Halloween Town take over the mansion, blending Christmas and Halloween in a delightfully eerie way. This is a must-see for fans of the film and anyone who loves a good scare with a festive twist.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark
During Halloween Time, the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction undergoes a nighttime transformation into Monsters After Dark. This thrilling ride features a new storyline where you help Rocket rescue Groot from the clutches of terrifying creatures. The ride’s soundtrack and special effects are amped up for an even more exhilarating experience.
Main Street Pumpkin Festival
As you enter Disneyland, you’ll be greeted by the Main Street Pumpkin Festival. Hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins line the streets, each with its own unique design. The centerpiece is the giant Mickey Mouse pumpkin, perfect for a photo op. The festive decorations extend throughout the park, creating a magical and spooky atmosphere.
Special Events
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party
One of the highlights of Halloween Time at Disneyland is the Oogie Boogie Bash, held at Disney California Adventure Park. This separately ticketed event features exclusive entertainment, trick-or-treating, and character meet-and-greets. Highlights include:
- Villains Grove: A walk-through experience in the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, transformed into a hauntingly beautiful world of Disney villains.
- Frightfully Fun Parade: A spooktacular parade featuring Mickey and friends in their Halloween costumes, along with Disney villains and other spooky characters.
- Treat Trails: Trick-or-treat stations throughout the park where you can collect candy and healthy treats.
Tickets for the Oogie Boogie Bash sell out quickly, so be sure to purchase yours as soon as they go on sale.
Plaza de la Familia
Over in Disney California Adventure, Plaza de la Familia celebrates the spirit of Día de los Muertos with vibrant decorations, live entertainment, and interactive activities. Inspired by Disney-Pixar’s “Coco,” this area features a musical celebration, arts and crafts, and a photo opportunity with Miguel.
Halloween Treats and Eats
No visit to Disneyland during Halloween Time is complete without indulging in some seasonal treats. Here are a few must-try items:
Pumpkin Spice Churros
These delicious churros are dusted with pumpkin spice sugar and served with a side of cream cheese frosting. You can find them at various churro carts throughout the park.
Halloween-Themed Mickey Beignets
Head to the Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square for Mickey-shaped beignets dusted with orange and black sugar. Pair them with a refreshing mint julep for the perfect snack.
Spooky Sundaes
At Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street, you can enjoy a spooky sundae featuring scoops of your favorite ice cream topped with Halloween-themed sprinkles, gummy worms, and a chocolate bat.
Specialty Drinks
Throughout the park, you’ll find a variety of specialty drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to quench your thirst. Look for the Poison Apple-tini, a green apple martini with a sinister twist, or the non-alcoholic Pumpkin Spice Milkshake.
Costumes and Merchandise
Costume Guidelines
Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes, but there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
- Costumes should be family-friendly and not obstructive, offensive, or violent.
- Masks are allowed for guests under 14, but they must not cover the entire face and eyes must be visible.
- Costumes should not drag on the ground or contain sharp objects.
Halloween Merchandise
Disneyland offers a wide range of Halloween-themed merchandise, from apparel and accessories to home décor and collectibles. Be sure to check out the Emporium on Main Street and World of Disney in Downtown Disney for the latest spooky swag. Limited-edition items tend to sell out quickly, so grab your favorites early in the season.
Tips for a Spooktacular Visit
Arrive Early: To make the most of your day, arrive at the park before it opens. This will give you a head start on popular attractions and allow you to experience the park with fewer crowds.
- Use the Disneyland App: The official Disneyland app is a valuable tool for checking wait times, finding character meet-and-greets, and mobile ordering food. You can also use it to secure Genie+ and Lightning Lane reservations for quicker access to popular rides.
- Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget to drink water and rest. Be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks throughout the day to keep your energy levels up.
- Plan Your Day: Prioritize the attractions and events you most want to experience. Make a rough itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see experiences.
- Capture the Memories: Bring a good camera or smartphone to capture all the magical moments. There are plenty of photo opportunities, from character meet-and-greets to beautifully decorated areas of the park.
Conclusion
Halloween Time at Disneyland is a truly magical experience that combines the enchantment of Disney with the thrills and chills of the Halloween season. From the festive decorations and special events to the delicious treats and spooky attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, this guide will help you make the most of your Halloween adventure at Disneyland in 2024. So don your favorite costume, grab your trick-or-treat bag, and get ready for a hauntingly good time!
