Disney knows how to make magic feel attainable.
That’s probably the most obvious statement in the world, but it’s the truth. Whether it’s through their movies , television shows, or their parks, they know what to do to make sure that every single person feels the magic and wonder of their world come to life. Their parks really are the most magical, and happiest places on Earth.
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Now, that happiness can certainly be achieved at any time of the year, but I will say, as someone who was gone to the parks during the summer, I have to hand it to Disney: the parks during the fall and Halloween season is absolutely worth seeing.
If you’ve always wondered whether it’s worth going to Disneyland California during their Halloween season, I’m here to tell you to GO.
The season takes place from September 2nd to October 31st , and I had my first experience there. It was everything I hoped it would be, and so much more. Before you even get in into the park, you’re already greeted at the gates by pumpkin display heads of Mickey and the gang, and surrounded by Halloween music.
When you walk into Disneyland Park , Main Street U.S.A is over the top inviting. There are amazing carved pumpkins all around for you to take in and take pictures of. While none are as impressive (or as large) as the massive Mickey pumpkin, they are certainly worth keeping an eye out for! As are your favorite Disney characters, who are all dressed up in fall and Halloween – appropriate clothes, including some Cars characters in Disney California Adventure!
The decor alone is worth seeing, but of course, Disney didn’t stop there.
There are a ton of seasonal cocktails, desserts, and afternoon treats that you will absolutely want to try. I have never eaten so many sweets in my life. They just made everything look so enticing.
Sweet wise, most of the creations are Halloween-themed or villain themed, full of bright oranges and deep purples. The drinks vary between looking Halloween-themed and tasting like fall (a lot of Pumpkin flavors for all the hardcore fans out there). I would have to say that my favorite sweet was the Micky Mummy Macaron at ‘Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe’ and my favorite drink was the Pumpkin Cold Brew at ‘Red Rose Taverne’.
Will you get a stomach ache from all the sugar? It’s possible. But will you regret it if you don’t try as many of these delicious sweets and drinks as you can? Absolutely.
But it’s not just decor and food that change, they even have some seasonal shows for you to catch.
Disney pays tribute to those who have passed during a tribute to Día de Los Muertos in Frontierland. At Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure Park, you can also catch a celebration of Coco , where you can meet some of the characters, and sing along to popular songs, all while celebrating Mexican culture.
As this isn’t a year-long event, it’s worth catching it at least once in your lifetime, especially if you loved the movie as much as I did.
But of course, my favorite part is Halloween Screams.
The seasonal fireworks occur on select nights, and they are, unsurprisingly, magnificent. Disney is able to tell a haunting story as the fireworks take place, and in this case, it’s with the focus on some of our classic Disney villains. So if you’re in the mood to get a little spooky, sing some songs, and have Jack Skellington hype your night up, then this is the perfect way to end your evening.
Here’s a hot tip: instead of sitting in front of the castle, walk to the ride “It’s A Small World”, there are way fewer people, so your view will be a lot better.
Overall, I’d say if you want to avoid the heat of summer and have a slightly less busy park, going during the Halloween season might be the perfect (and spookiest) time for you!
