Happy holidays, Kristin, and welcome to planDisney! First of all, congratulations on your achievement. I can't think of a better place to celebrate than the Disneyland Resort. It is the Happiest Place on Earth, after all! I have lots of ideas that I'm excited to share with you.
First, if rides are a priority for you, the
Lightning Lane Multi Pass is a fantastic option. You'll be able to use it to access the Lightning Lane entrances for various attractions, which can lead to shorter wait times. On days when you have the multi pass, you can also receive unlimited digital downloads of
Disney PhotoPass photos.
Speaking of photos, you can't go wrong with any of the PhotoPass locations. Some of my favorite spots at Disneyland during the holiday season include the beautiful tree in Town Square, the Partners Statue, and Sleeping Beauty Castle. In California Adventure, don't miss the picture spot at the entrance of Cars Land. If you happen to see a PhotoPass photographer roaming various lands inside Disneyland, ask them if they're available for a photo excursion. If they are, you'll be able to spend around 10 minutes with them as they take you to a few great locations in the area. This is subject to availability.
Kristin, there's so much entertainment to enjoy during this time of year.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy, but my favorite is the
"Believe...In Holiday Magic" Fireworks Spectacular. There's a part in the show when "snow" falls from above, and it's simply magical. Make sure you watch from "it's a small world," parts of Main Street, U.S.A., or along the Rivers of America so you don't miss out on that.
Other things to add to your list include experiencing attractions with seasonal overlays, watching the façade of "it's a small world" and the castle illuminate in the evening, meeting Santa at
Fantasyland Theatre or the
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, greeting Mickey and his pals in their holiday attire, and
sampling festive menu options. I'm jolly just thinking about it!
Both parks will be
open later than usual on New Year's Eve, and there will likely be an extra celebratory atmosphere that night. Take a midday break so you can make the most of the late hours.
Now, let's highlight your accomplishment. Pick up a complimentary "I'm Celebrating" button from one of many retail locations or City Hall on Main Street, U.S.A. You can also make a reservation at a
table-service restaurant – there are select locations where you can even pre-order a
Mickey Mouse Celebration Cake. My last suggestion is to buy a nice souvenir at the park to remember this trip and treat yourself!
Kristin, on behalf of all of us at planDisney, congratulations on your graduation. I hope you have the best time celebrating. If you have any other questions, please reach out. We're always happy to help!
Sprinkling pixie dust for you,
Kriss