Disneyland in December

[tapdancemom]

I'm new to these boards but have been to Disneyland 6 times, all during the summer months. My husband, daughter and 2 1/2 yearold grandson will be going this December 15th through the 19th.

I've heard the crowds are huge between Christmas and New Year's but I'm wondering what they're like when we'll be going.
Also, since we'll be there on week days what we'll see in the way of parades and after dark activities. I have read that the snow and fireworks are beautiful. Anyone out there been to Disneyland at that time of the year?

Also, we have booked The new Residence Inn marriott in Garden Grove. Does anyone have any feedback on it?

Thanks,
Marilynne

 

[CalGal]

Lucky you! This should be a wonderful time to visit DLR. I've gone 3-4 times at this time, and even when the schools let out early, it's not nearly as crowded as after Christmas. I think most of the schools will still be in session while you are there, so that will keep the crowds light and the hours a little short (parks will probably close by around 8PM weekdays). I would also expect that the crowds would increase a little as you get nearer to Christmas, especially for that Friday. You should be able to enjoy the Christmas decorations and spirit and the Christmas Parade and Fireworks. I don't know if you'll be able to catch the ELP unless you stay through the 19th. In December, the weather is generally pretty nice. It will be a bit cool, but it's been warm enough for my DS to swim a couple of times. There's always a chance for some rain.
You'll have a great time!

 

[daannzzz]

Bewteen 1965 and 1998 I had only been to Disneyland in the Spring, summer and early fall except for one rainy trip in January. In 1998 we finally tried it in early December. It is a great time to go, particularly since they have been adding all the special Christmas stuff. On nights when they do the fireworks and snow be prepared for it to be fairly busy. Annual Passholders flood in after work so the park gets crowded. Make sure you do special Christmas versions of anything ( Haunted Mansion Holiday and it's a small world Holiday) first thing in the morning as the lines can get really long late in the day and are huge after dark. It says on the Disneyland website that Fantasmic will be playing on weekends in early December. If it is still going when you are there and happen to be there on a Friday that area of the park will be gridlocked.
Be prepared for a viriety of weather. Last year I could have worn shorts until sundown and then only required a light jacket later. One year though it was clear but very cool during the day and absolutely freezing in the evening for the parade and fireworks. We had to purchase extra sweatshirts. Make sure you are prepared for the cold.

 

[jiminy579]

and LOVE this time of year. We are usually there the first week of December and always on weekdays. The park does close a bit earlier, but the decorations completely make up for it!! You can check out their direct site for a calendar of events. Have an awesome time!!!!!

 

[IandGsmom]

Summer and winter both have their advantages. Christmas time there is so so so so beautiful!!! Bring your own raingear just in case. The one they sell there did not help much and was more expensive than most stores. Have fun