If you’re a dad planning a Disneyland trip for the holidays, you’re probably juggling a few things, like the kids’ excitement (if it’s not a surprise), the logistics, and the silent pressure of being the one who “makes the magic happen.” And honestly, this year is the perfect year to do it.
Between Disneyland’s 70th Celebration and the parks being fully decked out for the holidays, we can’t think of a better time to go.
But before the kids drag you through the park, before the first churro, and before you hear “Dad, can we do that again?” you need a game plan. Consider this your playbook for making the most of the season without losing your sanity (or your budget).
Preparation Is Key
The night before your trip, once the kids are finally asleep, you start packing the dad essentials: layers for chilly Anaheim nights, portable chargers, snacks you know they’ll actually eat, and that backpack that will be the go-to for storage.
You unlock the cheat code by downloading the Disneyland App: mobile ordering, a map of each park, Genie+ selections, and real-time ride wait times. The holidays get busy, and the parks are even busier, but mobile ordering has truly become a game-changer.
You don’t want to overschedule, but you also don’t want to wander aimlessly. So you choose one must-do ride for each kid. That way, everyone feels heard. Expectations are set.
What To Do When Inside the Park
As soon as you pass under the Disneyland Railroad and onto Main Street, the holidays hit you: garlands, lights, music, the works. But this year, there’s an even bigger moment: the 70th Anniversary décor, woven into the holiday theming.
Ride Moments That Feel Like Christmas Traditions
You start with rides that all the kids love: “it’s a small world” Holiday, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and Cars Land holiday overlays at California Adventure.
You’ll get a lot of the “Dad, look!” moments.
Holiday Entertainment
You wander into Mickey’s Happy Holidays, a cavalcade that has kids dancing in the street. A little later, you catch Mirabel’s Gifts of the Season, where the holidays get the Encanto treatment.
Then there’s Disney ¡Viva Navidad!, one of the most interesting celebrations in the resort, which has music, dancers, food, and just a bunch of joy!
And Then There’s the Food…
At Disney California Adventure, the Festival of Holidays turns the park into a global tasting festival. Nearly 30 new bites roll out this year, and if you’re the dad who’s a foodie and loves a good sample, this is for you. From the Philly Cheese Potato to the Yuletide Carnitas Torta, the new holiday offerings will keep your taste buds happy.
We would also add Holiday M&M’s Éclair, the Al Pastor Mac & Cheese, and the Sticky Toffee Pudding Macaron to your list. And that’s where the Sip and Savor Pass comes in handy. Six digital coupons you can redeem across participating festival marketplaces.
How to Save Without Killing the Vibe
Disney trips can get pricey fast, especially during the holidays, but smart dads know the hacks:
The Sip and Savor Pass: Instead of buying full-price treats at every booth, you use your pass and stretch your dollars while trying more of the festival’s offerings.
Mobile Order: You skip long lines (and avoid hungry kids begging for everything in sight).
Souvenir Rules: You tell them early: one special souvenir each. No negotiations. (We’re strict over here)
Park Hopping: If you’re doing a one-day trip, hopping between Disneyland and California Adventure feels like a full vacation in 12 hours.
End the Day With a Dad Moment
The fireworks are always a great way to end the night, but in this part of Southern California, you also get snowfall on Main Street.
Between the holiday cheer, the 70th celebration touches, the Festival of Holidays, and the small dad hacks that made the day smoother, you realize you didn’t just take the kids to Disneyland, you gave them a memory they will always remember.
And when your kids fall asleep in the backseat holding their new stuffed Mickey or their Festival of Holidays button, you know you did what needed to be done.
