Disneyland Resort Mickey and Minnie Holidays parade; Christmas tree; Christmas apparel
  • On Jun 20, 2026
    Amy from TX Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are planning a trip to Disneyland Dec 23-27 and want to book character dining. Which is generally more crowded, breakfast or dinner?

    Hi there, Amy! Welcome back to planDisney. I am over the moon excited for your upcoming holiday visit. I love how we’re using the summer months to get straight into planning. It’s going to be a jolly time with all the holiday cheer in the air.

    You’re in the right spot to be thinking of reservations, as the holidays can draw in the crowds to the parks. With this in mind, I find that breakfast is more crowded, in my opinion. However, character dining around the parks is typically buffet style, so there will be plenty of delicious food to go around. Many Guests like to start their park day with characters, so those morning reservations tend to fill up quickly as Guests are eager to secure dates closer to Christmas.

    Breakfast also tends to feel a bit more energetic and structured since Guests are eager to get into the parks afterward, while dinner can be a more relaxed way to wind down after a full day of holiday fun.

    I dined at Storytellers Cafe for breakfast last December, and while the restaurant was packed with energy and excitement, I never felt like it took away from our experience of the meal or the character meet-and-greets. There were so many fun and silly interactions that created such wonderful core memories for our group.

    Since you are visiting during one of the busiest weeks of the year, I would recommend booking as early as your 60-day window opens, regardless of meal time, which is around October 24. Set alarms beforehand, flexibility will be your best friend, and even looking at slightly earlier or later dining times can make a big difference in availability. Don't forget to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for information and updates on the holiday season to come! 

    Amy, thank you so much for visiting planDisney. With the scents of peppermint and gingerbread wafting through the air as you walk down Main Street, U.S.A. to the snow-capped turrets of Sleeping Beauty Castle, I just know you’re in for a real treat this December. If you have any more questions until then, planDisney is here for you!

    With a Sprinkle of Pixie Dust,

    Bev
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Meet the Panelist: Bev, Nevada

Hi there! My name is Beverly, but you can call me Bev. I’m a wife, teacher, and mother to a sweet little boy. Disney has been woven into every season of my life; from childhood trips to Disneyland to splashing in the waters of Castaway Cay with my family as an adult. No matter what season you’re in, I’m happy to help you plan a Disney vacation that feels just right for you!
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