Hi there, Sally Sue. Welcome to
planDisney!
I love looking at the big picture, weighing all the options, and creating a plan that will check as many boxes as possible.
To recap, you want to do 3 park days across 4 to 5 nights, you want to see
Fantasmic, you want to avoid Grad Nites, and you’re curious about
Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite. Whew! I love a challenge. Let’s go!
First of all, I think considering Star Wars Nite first may be wise. I would make sure that the force is strong with your grandson before purchasing tickets. While the specifics about the nights have not been released yet, this ticketed event usually officially begins at 9:00 p.m. and concludes at 1:00 a.m. If you think it will be too late to enjoy, you might want to forego Star Wars Nite from your consideration.
If you do want to attend Star Wars Nite, then the dates you suggested at the beginning of May are your best bet, since May 4th (May the 4th be with you) and 6th are dates that Star Wars Nite is offered. Luckily, there are no Grad Nites scheduled around that time. Here is a breakdown of considerations for each day:
Sunday, May 3rd - Park day for sure! The parks should not be too busy, and Fantasmic typically takes place on Sunday nights.
Monday, May 4th - If you can get tickets to Star Wars Nite, go for it! It may be difficult to get tickets to this night, since fans everywhere recognize this as Star Wars Day, thanks to the humorous wordplay. If you can’t get tickets, however, I’d avoid this day since Disneyland closes at 8:00 p.m. for the event.
Tuesday, May 5th - This day is likely to be busy since Cinco de Mayo may bring extra crowds and a lot of energy to the parks. This could be a good day to spend at the pool, relax, and explore your resort.
Wednesday, May 6th - This day has similar considerations to the 4th. If you can’t get Star Wars Nite tickets for the 4th, this day would be best because it should be a slow day to enjoy the parks, and you’re set and ready to go when the event begins in the evening.
Sally Sue, I’d like to point out that Tuesday, May 5th, and Thursday, May 7th, may be busy days. Also, neither of those days will likely have fireworks at the end of the night. I’ll also point out that it’s difficult to see Fantasmic and get a good spot to see the
Fireworks on the same night. I’d suggest excluding the 5th and 7th, and consider adding Saturday, May 2nd, as an option. While it may be a busy day, you can at least see the fireworks one night and Fantasmic the next.
Here’s my final recommendation -
May 2nd - Park day with Fantasmic or Fireworks
May 3rd - Park day with Fantasmic or Fireworks
May 4th or 6th - Park day with Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite
May 5th - If you decide not to attend Star Wars Nite, I’d choose this date as your third date simply so you don’t have to leave at 8:00 p.m.
Good news! Whichever options you choose, you’ll be at the
Disneyland Resort! I love that you’re planning to make these magical memories with your grandson. It’s sure to be a blast! Don’t hesitate to bring more questions to us at planDisney. Have a magical day!
Corey