It was cool and brisk…a rarity in Southern California…and the perfect weather to celebrate the Holidays. There were lights and the biggest Christmas tree I’ve ever seen. We saw saw Santa and his reindeer. We drank hot chocolate and ate cookies. And it even snowed! It was a magical day at Disneyland. And while every day is sheer magic at the Happiest Place On Earth, Saturday was extra special.
I’m always amazed at the transformation Disneyland undergoes for the holidays. And while tradition holds strong, there is always something new… Like Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee, a show inspired by Disney’s new movie The Princess and the Frog. It takes place on the Mark Twain Riverboat and features singing and dancing that’s “all that jazz.” The show includes songs from the newly released movie (which I am aiming to see before our baby is born). Be sure to catch the show before it leaves, January 3, 2010.
Last year my husband and I took our little boy to Santa’s Reindeer Round-Up. Located in Frontierland, this is where you’ll find Santa, his reindeer, and various characters. This is the perfect place to “wind down” for a bit if you and your children are tired from walking around the park. You’ll find holiday arts and crafts (although I could not find the cookie decorating this year) and a sleigh that’s perfect for family pictures.
Speaking of reindeer…
Other holiday highlights include It’s a Small World’s holiday transformation (which is simply spectacular), Haunted Mansion Holiday (which I opted out of this year for obvious reasons), and the Christmas Fantasy Parade. An evening at Disneyland must always conclude with flare! Be sure to catch the holiday lighting and special-effects show at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle which concludes with the “Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks and snowfall!
Photo Courtesy of Disneyland
Photo Courtesy of Disneyland
Photo Courtesy of Disneyland
Understandably, this time of year is busy for the Disneyland Resort. If your stay is limited, you’re from out of town, you have little ones, or you want the ultimate Disneyland experience, check out their guided holiday tour. Never mind waiting in line for it’s a small world holiday or Haunted Mansion Holiday…don’t worry about showing up early to get a good seat at A Christmas Fantasy parade…. Get a personal tour that will make the most of your stay at the Disneyland Resort this holiday season. More information can be obtained at Disneyland City Hall, Tour Gardens Kiosk in Disneyland Park, the Guest Relations Lobby at Disney’s California Adventure Park, or by calling 714/781-4400.
My son was so excited about our day that he never took a nap. So by dinner, he was fast asleep. Fortunately, he woke up in time to give big hugs to Mickey, Minnie and Goofy.
Last year my son ran away crying from these characters…
I always leave Disneyland with a sense of renewed anticipation for what’s to come. We never manage to “see it all,” and I think that’s perfectly ok, especially with a toddler. We have season passes (that we must hurry and use before they black out) and I think it’s the perfect way to go with little ones. Because we live so close, I prefer the half days taken at leisure. It’s much more enjoyable that way!
I could say a lot more about Disneyland (in fact, I have…just search my site!). But really, the best stories are told with photos…
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It looks like y’all had a lot of fun! Great pictures! I bet it would be cool to see the Haunted Mansion and It’s a Small Wold all decked out! I love Disney anytime, but you are right, it’s even more magical during the holidays.
Oh, it WAS magical! I almost want to go back again already!
Good to see you, by the way! You look healthy and vibrant – and that little boy of yours is as handsome as ever.
aww, love your post! I can’t wait to see the rest of the pictures. Glad that Josh woke up too! He is so stinking cute. Sam just adores him!!!
What a fantastic day you all seemed to have – the smile on your son’s face just made me smile, too. My “little” boy will be here in one week and we cannot wait to go to Disney World with him and his girlfriend. We have annual passes and love it during the holidays also… the lights the decorations, the happiness just seems to be everywhere!
We love the Osborne Family Lights at Hollywood Studios…
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/hollywood-studios/special-events/osborne-family-spectacle-of-dancing-lights/
If you are in Florida during this time of year, you need to go see them, they are outstanding.
Have a great holiday!