Hi Morgan! Welcome to planDisney! There’s nothing quite like having a
Disneyland trip sparkling on the horizon, and I’m delighted to help you prepare for your magical adventure in 2026. With cooler temperatures and festive touches around every corner, December is truly one of the merriest times to visit the Happiest Place on Earth.
Morgan, vacation packages and hotel rates for 2026 are typically released around August of the previous year. While a specific date hasn’t been announced yet, these timelines can vary, so I recommend keeping a close eye on the
Disney Parks Blog. It’s the best source for updates on when 2026 vacation packages will become available, along with announcements about upcoming holiday offerings and magical extras.
Historically, theme park tickets are released up to 180 days in advance, though that timeline can shift. Since you're aiming for a December 2026 visit, it’s a good idea to begin checking for availability starting around June. Keep an eye on the
Theme Park Tickets page on the Disneyland website for the latest updates. Booking early gives you a better chance of securing your ideal dates and more time to dream about twinkling lights, festive parades, and Mickey-shaped peppermint treats!
December at Disneyland is brimming with holiday magic. From the transformation of “it’s a small world” into a dazzling celebration of global traditions, to the jolly fun of Haunted Mansion Holiday, the seasonal overlays are not to be missed. Don’t forget to catch “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” and the evening fireworks spectacular, often complete with snowfall on Main Street. It’s a truly unforgettable moment.
As you plan your itinerary, I highly recommend looking into the
Lightning Lane Multi Pass. This time-saving tool lets you reserve return times for select attractions, which is especially helpful during the popular holiday season. You can purchase Multi Pass in advance or the day of your visit. Once you’ve entered the park, just open the
Disneyland app to start reserving return times. This is perfect for maximizing the festive fun without spending extra time in standby lines.
My family and I love pairing thrills with seasonal treats. For example, riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad before sitting down to enjoy gumbo and beignets at Café Orleans is a tradition we look forward to every year. And during the holidays, even the churros wear their festive best!
Morgan, I hope this helps you get a joyful head start on your 2026 Disneyland adventure! If you have more questions or want help planning around the seasonal festivities, we hope you’ll stop by again at planDisney.
Wishing you a visit full of cozy moments, twinkling lights, and pure Disney magic,
David