Hi Rachel! Thanks for bringing your question to planDisney.
While wholly unused
admission tickets retain their face value and can be applied to the purchase of a new admission ticket even after their expiration date, you are correct that once you use a day on a multi-day ticket, you must return in a set number of days. A partially used multi-day ticket must be used within 13 days of its first use. It sounds like the gap in your two trips might extend beyond that window of use. If so, there is no one multi-day ticket option you can use over the course of your two trips. And while
Magic Keys offer Guests more access to the magic, the sale of Magic Keys is currently paused and their blockout dates might make their use during your trips impossible.
I wish there was a secret option I could reveal for you, but depending on how long your January visit will be, my suggestion is to purchase a multi-day ticket for your December trip and a one-day or multi-day ticket for the January trip. Given that the
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are a very popular time to visit, I'd suggest you make your plans and purchase your tickets as soon as you are able. Dates and parks often fill up, and admission tickets with
theme park reservations in December are already available for purchase.
I can't think of a better place to celebrate the season. From the festive decorations to the entertainment, you're bound to be surrounded by the magical joy of the holidays. There will be yummy treats too! Keep your eye on
Disney Eats for the official Foodie Guide to drop for all the details on the treats and sips you can enjoy during your visit. Last year, the IMPOSSIBLE Chorizo Queso Fundido at the
Festive Foods Marketplace, Brews & Bites in Disney California Adventure, was a popular choice with many. I loved the Mistletoe Mule at Sonoma Terrace, which I was able to
Mobile Order using the
Disneyland mobile app, so I could quickly get back to the fun with the rest of my group. I'm excited to see what favorites will be returning and what new delicious options will debut.
Have your must-eat and must-do list ready to go before your visit, so you're sure not to miss anything! The holiday overlays are my can't-miss, especially
"it's a small world" Holiday in Fantasyland at Disneyland Park. This iconic attraction also features in the magical entertainment at night. It lights up at night in a charming
display of holiday lights and is the focus of projections during the nighttime entertainment.
I hope this helps! Have a magical day.
Elizabeth