Greetings, Alondra, and welcome to planDisney! December is my favorite time of year to visit the Disneyland Resort. I can already picture the towering tree, hear the merry soundtrack of the parade, and taste the peppermint treats. Let's make sure you and your kids are set up for a successful trip!
The
MagicBand+ is convenient for certain aspects of a Disneyland Resort visit, such as entering the park, checking in at Lightning Lane entrances, and linking
Disney PhotoPass photos. However, at this time, it cannot be used to pay for food or merchandise inside the parks, at the hotels, or at the Downtown Disney District. Instead, I would suggest giving each of your kids a
Disney Gift Card. You can load it up with any amount you'd like (up to $1,000 per card), and the kids can use them at locations throughout the park. Buy the cards online in advance to choose from a collection of fun designs.
There are
interactive MagicBand+ locations throughout Disneyland, and they will remain during the holiday season,
according to the Disney Parks Blog. At each spot, you'll be able to use your MagicBand+ to unlock special effects – some even provide a printed souvenir!
As someone who visits the parks often, I find the
Disneyland mobile app to be extremely useful. Through the app, you can
mobile order food from select dining locations to skip the lines at mealtime. Just order in advance and head to the ticket window when you receive a notification that the order is ready. You can also use it to check wait times and Character greeting locations, view entertainment schedules, make dining reservations, get in-app chat support from a Cast Member, and much more. You can also use the
Disney Genie Service in the app to create an itinerary based on your priorities. If you don't have the app already, I suggest downloading it, signing in, ensuring your tickets are all linked, and getting familiar with its features before you arrive.
I'm excited that you will be at Disneyland during the
holiday season. Don't miss the tree and Sleeping Beauty Castle
illuminate each evening. It's magical! "it's a small world" also has a special moment when the façade lights up, and there is a light projection show multiple times after dark. Head to any of these areas to watch the
"Believe...In Holiday Magic" Fireworks Spectacular – some locations even have a "snowfall" as part of the show. It's quintessential holiday fun.
Alondra, I hope you and your family have the most magical visit to the Disneyland Resort. I'm sprinkling some pixie dust for you! If you think of any other questions, please reach out – we're always happy to help here at planDisney!
Your pal,
Kriss