1. New parade and fireworks (though I have no idea the best plan for this in September (12-16)
HalloweenTime kicks-off on Friday, September 11. So high(ish) crowds are likely that first weekend (12 & 13) to see what's new and how they've incorporated Halloween into the 60th anniversary celebration. The Parks Blog confirmed that
Disneyland Forever Fireworks and PtN will be presented nightly during HalloweenTime (except on nights with a MHP, but those don't start until after your trip). WoC is also new (should be presented daily) and there is the Diamond Mad T Party (Fri, Sat, and Sun only it seems at this point). Given that fireworks can be cancelled do to weather (most commonly winds at higher elevations), I would aim to see them early in the trip so that if they are cancelled, you have other nights to try and see them.
2. FP windows are now being enforced
Yes, FP return times are being enforced. There is no set grace period, so make sure to return within the time printed on your FP. Most all attractions are now linked, but Buzz Lightyear is disconnected. WoC, F!, Frozen at Fantasy Faire, and the character M&G FPs are also disconnected. Likewise, the two parks are disconnected from each other.
3. RSR maybe isn't quite so hard to ride as it was in 2012 (though I still have no details on how early RSR FP "sell out"
FPs are lasting a lot longer now. I'd still aim to get one within the first 90 minutes of the day, but it seems not uncommon to hear that they're lasting for a few hours at least. Note that if RSR goes down, they suspend distributing FPs.
What else has changed? Anything that I might not know about (new or changed) since 2012? What do I really need to plan well for so I make sure I get to experience it? I'd love a quick rundown so I've got a starting point for planning.
You'll be there right at the start of HalloweenTime! So HMH and SMGG should both be up and running. You may want to check-out the
HalloweenTime SuperThread for more HalloweenTime discussion/speculation.
Recent things that have been added or changed to DLR:
- Matterhorn - Re-opened with new effects. Still very bumpy and jerky.
- Haunted Mansion - Added the Hatbox Ghost back to the attraction. The Parks Blog said he would be incorporated into HMH, so he should still be there in September when you go.
- Peter Pan - Recently re-opened with new effects.
- Frozen - A&E and Olaf meet and greet, Frozen mini-show at Princess Fantasy Faire
- Mickey and the Magical Map - show at Fantasyland Theatre
- Mad T Party - Replaced Electronica, currently presenting a Diamond Celebration version (very fun!)
- Grizzly Peak Airfield - The Condor Flats area around Soarin' and GRR has been re-themed as Grizzly Peaks Airfield.
- Soarin' - Upgraded equipment, same show
- FPs for F! - F! began using FPs in December
- Selfie Stick Ban - Disney Parks have now banned the use of selfie sticks.
I'm sure there are a lot more things, but these are the ones that quickly came to mind.
