Hi Melinda!
I just had to answer your question. It's not every day I get to support another Melinda with their Disney planning!
As you mentioned, there’s a brief gap between the Halloween and holiday seasons at the Disneyland Resort.
Halloween Time runs from August 22 through October 31, and over at Disney California Adventure, Plaza de la Familia will also be in full swing from August 22 through November 2. The
Holidays Begin at Disneyland on November 14, 2025, and run through January 7, 2026. The Festival of Holidays will also be taking place during that same time at California Adventure.
Originally, the
70th Anniversary entertainment was going to pause during the holiday season. However, we received
exciting updates in June! Several elements of the celebration will continue during Halloween Time:
*
Paint the Night*
World of Color – Happiness!*
Tapestry of Happiness* 70th Anniversary overlay on
Toy Story Midway Mania!
*
Interactive MagicBand+ locations* “
Key to Disneyland” lock stations
* Colorful castle photo op in the Esplanade
* Select 70th Anniversary decorative accents
We don’t yet have confirmation if these offerings will continue through the holiday transition or into the winter festivities. I recommend keeping a close eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates. You can also check the
Hours and Events calendar on the Disneyland website (usually available 40 days in advance) to see if parades or nighttime shows will be running during that in-between time. Keep in mind that entertainment schedules are subject to change, so it’s best to check regularly.
You also asked about
“it’s a small world” and when it will close for the installation of the
holiday overlay. Typically, it shuts down in mid to late October and reopens in early November, just in time for the start of the holiday season. I recommend checking the Daily Events Schedule and switching to Day View, then scrolling to the “Closed for Refurbishment” section to see attraction updates.
I hope this was helpful, Melinda! It’s such a rare and fun thing to meet another Melinda, especially one who shares a love for Disneyland! If you have any more questions or want more planning tips, feel free to reach out again. I’d be honored to help add a little extra magic to your trip.
Have a truly wonderful vacation!
—Melinda