Welcome to planDisney, Sarah! Thank you for submitting your question! I would be delighted to answer!
Two days is the perfect amount of time to explore all that the
Disneyland Resort has to offer! Deciding which day to visit each park is an important decision. While it is ultimately up to you, there are a few factors you may want to consider when making your decision.
When traveling with friends and family who do not visit the Theme Parks often, I like to start our trip at
Disneyland Park. Stepping on to Main Street U.S.A. where Walt once walked sets the tone for the entire trip. However, I do recommend checking the
Entertainment Schedule for your arrival date. You'll want to wait until closer to your trip to do this. The calendar is typically released a couple of months in advance. During certain times of the year, fireworks are offered nightly. Other times, they are only offered on the weekends. With a Thursday arrival, you’ll want to make sure fireworks are scheduled. A day at Disneyland Park is not complete if you do not end with a fireworks viewing. If fireworks are not offered on Thursday, I recommend making your Disneyland Park
Theme Park Reservation for Friday instead.
Whichever day you visit
Disney California Adventure Park, you’ll have a lovely time. And, you’ll be at the park during the height of
Disney Festival of the Holidays. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of cherished holidays including Christmas, Navidad, Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa and Three Kings Day. Plus, feast on tasty treats and libations from
Marketplace Kiosks. And, for a chance to sample a bit of everything at a discount, purchase a Sip and Savor Pass. It will allow you to use tabs to enjoy cuisine throughout the festival.
I hope this information helps you make a decision. If you have additional questions, please bring them our way!
Tiffanie