It seems like only yesterday that we were carving pumpkins…baking pies…remembering all that we have to be thankful for.  With less than a month before Christmas, we’re getting festive…trimming the tree…shopping for friends and family…exploring the foodie within…and immersing ourselves in the magic of Disney.

The Disneyland Resort has been transformed into a Holiday Wonderland, and while we enjoy visits to the parks throughout the year, this is perhaps my favorite season.  Both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are infused with holiday magic, including festive decor, real reindeer, Santa Claus and nightly snowfall.

Along with traditional favorites such as the Haunted Mansion’s holiday transformation, Santa’s Reindeer Round-up, and Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, you’ll find a variety of new activities and attractions, including a new favorite: Phineas and Ferb’s Rockin’ Rollin’ Dance Party at Disney California Adventure Park.  The wildly popular duo invites guests to dance along to classic songs and holiday favorites at Paradise Pier. This upbeat show with a holiday twist is perfectly suited for tots of all ages.  While you are at Disney California Adventure Park, be sure to stick around for World of Color, which includes a special holiday prelude sequence from Prep & Landing.  The spectacular nighttime show, which combines water, color, fire, and light, brings your favorite characters to life on a shimmering misty canvas.

It goes without saying that my son is thrilled by the number of rides featuring his favorite Disney characters.  Topping his list of favorite activities are the parades that march down Main Street through Disneyland.  “A Christmas Fantasy” parade has become a tradition, and really captures the heart of the season.  This lively celebration features notable Disney characters singing and dancing in preparation for the arrival of Santa Claus.

While you’re at the resort, be sure to plan time to stay through the evening.  Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle and “it’s a small world” Holiday are stunning at night and definitely not to be missed.  If you’ll be spending your evening at Disneyland, be sure to plan on seeing Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks show which concludes with a magical snowfall down Main Street.

As someone who grew up at the park, I still find that each visit is uniquely memorable.  If you’re visiting with small children be sure to take note of the following tips to make the most of your time.

1. Plan enough time to visit both parks. As you can imagine, the resort gets busy during the holiday season. Rather than rushing to see everything, plan at least one day in each park to truly soak in all there is to see and do.

2.  Utilize the FASTPASS system.  This becomes particularly important when you are visiting the park with small children, who may not be capable of standing in longer lines.

3. Arrive early for shows, parades, etc. In order to secure an optimal viewing spot, you’ll want to arrive early.  Alternatively, you can book a guided holiday tour which includes entry into “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, reserved seating for “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, and a keepsake remembrance, as well as information surrounding the history of holiday traditions and celebrations at the resort.

4.  Take note of the the Baby Care Center. Here is where you’ll find comfortable facilities for diaper changing, nursing and feeding small children.

5. “Schedule” rest and meal times. It’s very easy to lost track of time at the park. You can avoid fatigue and meltdowns by simply anticipating your family’s need for food and rest.

6. Capture those memories. There are a number of incredibly scenic photo locations, many of which would make a beautiful holiday card.

I recently wrote, in depth, about what you can expect this season at the Disneyland Resort on CBS Los Angeles.  Stay tuned for a tasty post on holiday treats you can only find during this season at the resort.

No compensation was received for this post. We were invited to a media event which helped facilitate this review.

Photo Credit: Rockin’ Mama. All rights reserved.