Hi Sarah,
Welcome to planDisney! Call me Lumière, and be our guest!
Disneyland does require some planning ahead, including reservations. You'll need to make park reservations, and if you're interested in sit-down dining, it's highly recommended that you make those reservations in advance. So fold your menu and grab a glass as I help clear up how reservations work at Disneyland!
Park reservations for regular tickets can be made about 6 months in advance (Magic Key holders can book about 3 months out).
Dining and Experience reservations open 60 days in advance. The
Daily Entertainment Schedule (including parades, fireworks, and shows) is released about 6 weeks in advance
Any planDisney panelist will tell you, it’s best to make your reservations as early as possible! You don’t want to miss out on a magical meal or the enchanting experience you've been dreaming of.
Popular Experiences to Book
* Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers
* Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
* Happiest Haunts Guided Tour (seasonal)
Popular Dining to Reserve
At Disneyland Park:
* Blue Bayou Restaurant
* Oga’s Cantina
* Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park
At Disney California Adventure Park:
* Lamplight Lounge
* Carthay Circle Restaurant
* Magic Key Terrace (Magic Key Holders only)
At Disneyland Resort Hotels:
* Goofy’s Kitchen (at Disneyland Hotel)
* Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (at Disneyland Hotel)
* Storytellers Café (at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
* Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures (at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
Dining with Reserved Entertainment. These experiences include food and reserved seating for nighttime spectaculars:
* World of Color Dessert Party
* World of Color Dining Packages
* Plaza Inn Parade Dining Package
* Fantasmic! Dining Packages
When booking dining around a parade or show, use the current schedule as a guide. You can adjust once the six-week entertainment calendar is released. Fireworks and World of Color are usually consistent with their showtimes.
Since you're visiting in September, be aware that
Oogie Boogie Bash takes place on select nights at Disney California Adventure. For 2025, some dates that may impact your vacation include September 14, 16, and 18. On party days, California Adventure will close at 6:00 PM for day guests. You might want to plan to visit Disneyland Park on those dates, or start your day at California Adventure if you have a Park Hopper ticket.
I hope this was helpful, Sarah! I know it’s a lot to consider, but I’m happy to help with any specific plans you’re making. If you have more questions, feel free to write back. You can also reach out to any of my fellow planDisney panelists. We’re always here to sprinkle a little extra magic on your Disney vacation.
Happy planning!
-Melinda