Disneyland in 2026: Events, New Experiences, and What to Expect
Planning to visit Disneyland in 2026? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney veteran, there’s never been a better time to start preparing for the fun. This year will be extra special as the Disneyland Resort continues to celebrate its 70th anniversary! The celebration began on May 16, 2025, and it will continue through the summer of 2026.
Another big change coming in 2026 is the end of early entry for resort guests. Those staying on property will instead receive one Lightning Lane entry during their resort stay.
We will keep you posted throughout the year as Disney makes additional announcements about all they have planned for 2026!
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Disneyland in 2026: News and Updates
Disneyland will be celebrating its 70th anniversary through the summer of 2026! The celebration includes new entertainment, food, and limited-time merchandise.- Disney has announced that early entry will be ending for those staying on Disney property beginning January 5, 2026. Instead, Disneyland Resort hotel guests can take advantage of one Lightning Lane entry to a Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction during their resort stay.
Offers and Deals for 2026
Disneyland Ticket Deals
- California Resident Ticket Offer: California residents can purchase a 3-Day Park Hopper ticket for $249 (over 50% savings), valid January 1–May 21, 2026, subject to restrictions and park reservations.
- Kids Summer Ticket Deal: Children ages 3–9 can visit for just $50 with a special 1-Day Park Hopper ticket, valid May 22–September 7, 2026, with park reservations required.
Disneyland Resort Hotel Discounts
- Winter & Spring Hotel Savings: Guests can save up to 25% on select Disneyland Resort hotel stays of 3 or more nights from January 1–May 21, 2026 (book by May 7, 2026).
- Summer Hotel Savings: Guests can also save up to 25% on select stays of 4 or more nights from May 22–September 7, 2026, subject to availability.
Magic Key Holder Deals
- Disneyland Resort Hotel Discounts: Magic Key passholders can save up to 20% on select hotel stays on Sunday–Thursday nights during select dates in 2026.
- Aulani Resort Offer: Magic Key holders can save up to 30% on select stays at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaiʻi, valid April 10–June 12, 2026 for 5-night stays (other savings available for 4 nights).
Military Discounts
- Military Ticket Offer: Eligible U.S. military members can purchase specially priced Disneyland theme park tickets valid January 1–December 31, 2026, subject to restrictions and park reservations.
- Military Hotel Offer: Military members can also receive discounted rates on select Disneyland Resort hotel rooms on most nights throughout 2026.
Other Disney Deals
- Disney Visa Offer: New Disney Visa cardmembers may receive a $300 Disney Gift Card plus a $300 statement credit after approval (terms apply).
- Disney Store Shipping Deal: Free ground shipping is available on Disney Store orders of $75 or more when purchasing Disneyland Resort merchandise online.
Year At-A-Glance
January
- Weather: Overall, Disneyland in January is a bit cooler with an increased risk of rain. The average high is 66 degrees, and the low is typically around 48 degrees. As January is one of the rainiest months of the year, coming prepared with rain ponchos and warmer clothing would be a smart idea.
- Crowds: Crowds in January tend to be some of the lowest of the year. That being said, you may want to avoid the first week of January as holiday festivities are still taking place, as well as Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, which is known for being a bit crowded.
- Other Considerations: Since crowds are fewer, be prepared for shortened park hours and a few ride closures. Water rides almost always close for yearly maintenance around this time of year as the temperatures cool off, and holiday overlays get removed from the Haunted Mansion and it’s a small world, causing short closures for these attractions.
February
- Weather: Overall, Disneyland will see cooler temperatures and rain in February. The average high is 69 degrees, and the low is typically around 48 degrees. As February is one of the rainiest months of the year, coming prepared with rain ponchos and warmer clothing would be a smart idea.
- Crowds: Crowds in February will be mild as it’s considered part of the “off-season.” Weekends will probably be busier with locals, and Presidents’ Day Weekend will see an increase in crowds as well. So if you want to avoid crowds, be sure to plan some weekdays in the parks.
- Other Considerations: Similar to January, crowds are fewer. So be prepared for shortened park hours and a few ride closures. Water rides almost always close for yearly maintenance around this time of year as the temperatures cool off.
March
- Weather: Overall, Disneyland in March can be a bit unpredictable. Temperatures will be a bit cooler, and rain is definitely possible. Of course, it isn’t quite as rainy and cool as during the winter months. The average high is 72 degrees, and the low is typically around 50 degrees. Be sure to check the weather before your vacation, and be prepared for variable springtime weather.
- Crowds: March will be busy. With the Food and Wine Festival (which is popular with the locals) and spring break season… There will no doubt be crowds this March.
- Other Considerations: One upside to the parks seeing an increase in Spring Break crowds is that Disney makes an effort to make sure attractions are open to accommodate guests. (That means fewer refurbishments should be scheduled for this time of year.) The Food and Wine Festival will likely return to Disney’s California Adventure in March. This event is a local favorite, and it will bring some local crowds into the park.
April
- Weather: Overall, the weather in Anaheim is quite pleasant in April. So if you’re looking to visit Disneyland without the summer heat or winter rain, this may be the perfect time to go. The average high is 71 degrees, and the low is typically around 52 degrees. It is also typically a dryer month in terms of rain. Overall, April is an excellent time to visit in terms of weather!
- Crowds: Easter falls on April 5, which will likely affect crowds during the first week of April. With Easter landing earlier in the month than last year, the end of the month could potentially be a great time to visit when it comes to crowds.
- Other Considerations: The end of April (and early May) can be a great time to visit the parks, as there tends to be a lull between the spring break season and summer break.
May
- Weather: Overall, the weather in Anaheim is still quite pleasant in May. So if you want to visit Disneyland without the summer heat or winter rain, this may be the perfect time to go. The average high is 74 degrees, and the low is typically around 54 degrees. It is also typically a dryer month in terms of rain.
- Crowds: May can be a popular month to visit the Disneyland Resort. With Star Wars Day on May 4th, Cinco de Mayo on May 5th, Memorial Day Weekend, and Grad Nites… there are certainly days that get very crowded with the locals. So keep these dates in mind if you are trying to avoid the crowds in May.
- Other Considerations: Grad Nites will likely be back in 2026. While this is a fun opportunity for graduating seniors, the parks can get a bit crowded for the rest of us. So keep this in mind when selecting your vacation dates.
June
- Weather: Overall, the weather in Anaheim is starting to feel more “summer-like” in the month of June. The average high is 81 degrees, and the low is typically around 61 degrees. June can also be a bit humid, especially in the morning hours.
- Crowds: June is a very popular month to visit the Disneyland Resort. Be prepared for summer crowds throughout the month!
- Other Considerations: Like May, the month of June will likely offer ticketed Grad Nites in 2026. While this is a fun opportunity for graduating seniors, the parks can get a bit crowded for the rest of us. So keep this in mind when selecting your vacation dates.
July
- Weather: Overall, the weather in Anaheim is starting to feel more “summer-like” in the month of July. The average high is 84 degrees, and the low is typically around 66 degrees.
- Crowds: July is a very popular month to visit the Disneyland Resort. Be prepared for summer crowds throughout the month!
- Other Considerations: The Fourth of July falls on a Saturday in 2026, so it will likely be busy. Featuring Patriotic music, Disneyland will light up the night sky with an inspirational fireworks display.
August
- Weather: Disneyland in August can be quite hot. The average high is 86 degrees, and the low is typically around 66 degrees. The heat will feel hotter as well due to the crowds and the concrete throughout the parks. Be prepared to hydrate!
- Crowds: The beginning of August is definitely considered a “peak” time at the Disneyland Resort. Many will take advantage of this time at the end of summer to take a vacation prior to school beginning again. The second half of the month will see fewer crowds as schools start across the country. But keep in mind that Disney will most likely adjust their park hours during this time, giving you a bit less time in the parks.
- Other Considerations: You may see more locals during the second half of August. Magic Key holders (those with annual passes) will see a decrease in block-out dates as August crowds lessen. If you are a Magic Key holder, this is great news as you will have more opportunities to visit the parks! It could also mean a slight increase in crowds, as those with passes will want to take advantage of this time.
September
- Weather: When it comes to temperature, September will likely feel a lot like summer. The average high is 84 degrees, and the low is typically around 63 degrees. So while the parks will be decorated for fall, be prepared to dress for the summer heat.
- Crowds: School is back in session in September, so weekdays will definitely see a decrease in crowds. Weekends, however, could still be busy as Halloween festivities are quite popular. Labor Day weekend will be especially busy, as nearly all holiday weekends are.
- Other Considerations: Halloween begins in late August at the Disneyland Resort. So if you enjoy Halloween festivities, September could be a great time to visit… especially since Halloween crowds will likely increase as we get closer to Halloween.
October
- Weather: Overall, Disneyland in October will see cooler temperatures. The average high is 76 degrees, and the low is typically around 63 degrees. Layers will be important as you plan your days in the parks, especially if staying in the evening for Halloween events and festivities.
- Crowds: Many are surprised to discover that October can be very busy. Halloween in Disneyland is very popular. Also, many schools in California, Utah, and Nevada have week-long fall breaks spread out throughout the month. That being said, prepare for holiday crowds as you enjoy the Halloween festivities!
- Other Considerations: Halloween begins in late August at the Disneyland Resort and will continue through October 31st. The Disneyland Resort goes all out for Halloween with attraction overlays, festive decor, themed dining, ticketed events, and more!
November
- Weather: Disneyland in November will be cooler, but pleasant. The average high is 70 degrees, and the low is typically around 53 degrees. Layers are an excellent way to be prepared for warmer afternoons and cooler evenings. It is also worth noting that this month marks the beginning of the rainy season. Ponchos are a great way to be prepared!
- Crowds: The holidays at the Disneyland Resort are very popular, and crowds should be expected. That being said, November should be less crowded than December. Weekends will be busier with locals, and Thanksgiving week will be very busy.
- Other Considerations: Disney typically begins the festivities during the second week of November. So if you want to enjoy the holidays without the crazy Christmas crowds, November (before Thanksgiving) can be a wonderful time to visit.
December
- Weather: The weather in December is definitely a bit cooler. The average high is 67 degrees, and the low is typically around 48 degrees. Evenings will almost definitely require some layering as they can be quite chilly. Rain will also be a factor, as this is considered a rainy month for California.
- Crowds: December is one of the busiest months of the year. So if you’re planning on visiting the Disneyland Resort to enjoy the holidays, be prepared for crowds. Weekdays during the first two weeks of the month will be less busy when compared to later in the month.
- Other Considerations: The holidays are such a fun time to visit the Disneyland Resort. With that being said, you will want to visit with a plan due to the crowds, and be sure to make dining reservations early!
Ride Closures and Refurbishments
*Please note that this list could change at a moment’s notice.
Disneyland Park
- Jungle Cruise is currently closed for refurbishment. No opening date has been announced.
- Disneyland Monorail will be temporarily closed beginning March 30, 2026.
- Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin will be temporarily closed beginning March 30, 2026.
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters will be temporarily closed beginning April 13, 2026.
California Adventure Park
- Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration! has permanently ended.
- Grizzly River Run is closed for refurbishment. A reopening date has yet to be announced (likely spring as the weather warms up).
- Toy Story Midway Main will be closed beginning April 6, 2026. An opening date has yet to be announced.
- Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! will be permanently closing in 2027 to make room for a new Avatar-themed area.
Everything Coming to Disneyland in 2026 (and beyond)
Disneyland Resort
*These festivities will be taking place throughout the entire Disneyland Resort!
January 29-February 1 – runDisney Disneyland Half Marathon
runDisney is making its return to the Disneyland Resort in 2026, and the weekend will feature a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and a challenge event (10K and half marathon).
August 13 – D23 Day at Disneyland Resort
D23 Day at Disneyland Resort launches the lead-up to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event with a special day dedicated to Disney fans. Guests visiting the resort can look forward to exclusive entertainment, themed touches throughout the parks, and memorable experiences celebrating Disney’s many stories and characters.
August 13-16 – Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party
The Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party will return with a special celebration designed especially for families with young children. The festivities begin with a one-day event at Disney California Adventure featuring Disney Jr. characters, live entertainment, activities, and photo opportunities, followed by a three-day celebration at Downtown Disney District.
August 21 through Halloween – Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort
During the autumn season, the entire resort at Disneyland undergoes a delightful transformation. Guests are treated to an array of Halloween-themed attractions and decor, along with characters adorned in spooky costumes. Notable highlights at Disneyland include the Haunted Mansion Holiday, Halloween Screams nighttime spectacular, the Main Street Pumpkin Festival, and a variety of festive snacks.
Be amused by the attractions at California Adventure, such as Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, Cars Land showcasing costumed Cars, Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween, Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree, and don’t miss the highly sought-after ticketed event, Oogie Boogie Bash.
November 28 through Early January – Holidays at Disneyland Resort
Throughout the season, the entire resort is transformed into a winter wonderland. Guests can enjoy the Christmas Fantasy Parade, take a holiday-themed ride through “it’s a small world,” watch the stunning “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks show, admire the magical Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, and check out the spooky-but-festive Haunted Mansion Holiday, along with many other Disney holiday experiences.
California Adventure embraces the holiday season as well with festive decorations, including a 50-foot Christmas tree on Buena Vista Street. Cars Land gets a holiday makeover with special overlays like Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl, where cars dance to holiday tunes, and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, complete with festive decor and music.
Disneyland Park
May 16-Summer 2026 – Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration
This year-long event will include exclusive entertainment, merchandise, food, and experiences! Highlights include a new cavalcade, a new verse added to the classic song from “it’s a small world,” and Walt Disney himself brought to life through Audio-Animatronics at the Main Street Opera House.
January 22-February 17 – Disney After Dark: Sweethearts’ Night
This ticketed event will take place on select nights in January and February 2026 in the Disneyland park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Disneyland Park, followed by a private party from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Parties feature Disney characters, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, special foods and drinks, and collectible merchandise. Select attractions were also open after hours for the party! Prices start at $149 per guest, and dates include January 22, 25, and 27 and February 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 17.
March 3 & 5 – Disney After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites
This brand-new ticketed event will take place on just two nights in March 2026 at Disneyland. Guests can enjoy nostalgic entertainment throughout the park, including the “Sounds of Magic” riverfront serenade featuring songs from classic Disneyland shows. The celebration also includes themed dance parties, line dancing, throwback photo spots, and appearances from rare “Long Lost Friends” Disney characters.
March 22 – Debut of Bluey’s Best Day Ever!
Beginning March 22, 2026, Bluey and her sister Bingo will make their Disneyland Resort debut in “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park as part of the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. This lively interactive experience brings the beloved series to life with music, games, dance-alongs, character appearances, themed food, merchandise, and playful photo opportunities for families.
April 12, 14, & 16 – Disney After Dark: Disney Channel Nite
Returning for another year at Disneyland, this popular Disney After Dark event will take place on three select nights in April. New this year, Penny Proud from The Proud Family makes her Disneyland Resort debut alongside Disney Channel favorites like Kim Possible, Lilo & Stitch, and more. Guests can also enjoy high-energy shows, sing-alongs, dance parties, and themed photo opportunities celebrating hit Disney Channel movies and series like High School Musical, ZOMBIES, Camp Rock, Hannah Montana, and Lizzie McGuire.
Late April through Late-May – Star Wars: Season of the Force at Disneyland Park
While “Season of the Force” is not officially listed as a celebration in 2026, the Disneyland Resort is still celebrating all things Star Wars in the weeks surrounding May 4. This includes a Hyperspace Mountain overlay beginning April 28, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite (April 28 & 30 and May 4 & 6), and a new Mandalorian and Grogu mission debuting on the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run attraction on May 22. Also announced this season is a timeline expansion at Galaxy’s Edge. Beginning April 29, guests may encounter characters such as Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo.
May 22, 2026 – New scenes in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
As mentioned above, Din Djarin and Grogu will be featured in a new version of this iconic attraction. The mission will debut at the same time as the new movie “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” which will be released on May 22, 2026.
June 16 & 18 – Disney After Dark: Pride Nite
This ticketed event will take place on June 16 and 18, 2026, at Disneyland Park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Disneyland Park, followed by a private party from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Parties feature Disney characters, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, special foods and drinks, and collectible merchandise. Select attractions were also open after hours for the party!
California Adventure
January 23 through February 22, 2026 – Lunar New Year Celebration
This annual celebration pays tribute to the customs and cultures of China, Vietnam, and Korea. In celebration of the Year of the Dragon, attendees can indulge in Asian-inspired cuisine and drinks, immerse themselves in lively decorations, and enjoy the vibrant “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession,” led by the beloved character Mushu.
February 22 – Anaheim Ducks Day
Anaheim Ducks Day returns to Disney California Adventure on February 22 for a special one-day celebration. Guests can enjoy hockey-themed entertainment, appearances from select Anaheim Ducks players and the team’s mascot Wild Wing, along with themed activities and photo opportunities throughout the park.
March 6 through April 27, 2026 – Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival
Indulge in wine, savor delectable food, and groove to captivating live music. The festival is a feast for the entire family, offering a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re a foodie or a cooking novice, the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival guarantees a tasty and fun experience.
May 8-June 12 – Grad Nites
Grad Nites is a special ticketed event that will be back in 2026! The parties take place on select dates in both May and June. There are three ticket options ranging in price from $129-$259. This year’s dates include May 9, 12, 18, 21, 22, 27, 28, & 30 and June 3, 5, 7, 10 & 12.
July 2 – Debut of Soarin’ Across America
Soarin’ Across America is part of a new campaign called “Disney Celebrates America,” which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. As part of the celebration, the fan-favorite attraction will return with a new bi-coastal adventure across the United States, highlighting the nation’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.
August 21 through November 2 – Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park
Experience a celebration of family and Mexican traditions during Día de los Muertos with the enchanting storytelling and captivating music of Pixar’s “Coco.” Immerse yourself in this cultural event that pays homage to the enduring bonds of family.
August 18 through Halloween – Oogie Boogie Bash Parties at Disney California Adventure
This very popular Halloween party will return to Disney California Adventure on select nights from August 18 through October 31, 2026. This separately ticketed after-hours event invites guests to dress in costume and enjoy a festive evening of trick-or-treating, themed entertainment, and spooky Disney fun throughout the park.
November 18 through Early January – Disney California Adventure Festival of the Holidays
Celebrate the holiday season at California Adventure with seasonal overlays, food booths, and international flavors.
TBD – Avengers Infinity Defense
The Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is set to introduce a third attraction, Avengers Infinity Defense, which promises to immerse guests in an exciting new story alongside their favorite Marvel superheroes. The attraction will allow guests to team up with the Avengers and their allies in an epic battle against King Thanos. Construction is slated to begin in early 2025 and will likely take a few years to complete.
TBD – Stark Flight Lab
Avengers Campus is set to expand with the addition of two new attractions: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. The latter, a simpler attraction, may open as soon as 2026, but it is likely that Disney will wait to open both attractions simultaneously in 2027 or 2028. This expansion is anticipated to provide a significant boost to Disney California Adventure.
TBD – Coco Boat Ride
Embark on a journey to the Land of the Dead with Miguel and his skeletal family from Pixar’s “Coco” at the upcoming attraction in Disney California Adventure. Construction is set to commence in 2026 and is expected to span over a few years. Walt Disney Imagineering will incorporate elements from iconic attractions such as Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean to inspire the creation of this new experience.
TBD – Pandora: World of Avatar
Experience the magic of Pandora like never before with the upcoming “Avatar: The Way of Water” expansion at Disney California Adventure. Set to transport guests to the wide-open seas of Pandora, this thrilling excursion promises to deliver action, excitement, and wonder on a grand scale. Guests can look forward to discovering majestic natural wonders and dense forests, immersing themselves in the world of Avatar. No official timeline has been announced for this highly anticipated expansion.
Beyond the Parks
February 20-21 & 27-28 – Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park
This popular celebration is moving to Downtown Disney for 2026! The annual event showcases Gospel music, featuring talented artists and community choirs from Southern California. This year’s artists include Hezekiah Walker (February 21) and Yolanda Adams (February 28). The celebration also includes specialty food, family crafts, and history panels.
June 19 – Disney On the Yard – Yardfest: Powered by Celebrate Soulfully
On June 19, Downtown Disney District will once again host Disney On the Yard – Yardfest, a community celebration powered by Celebrate Soulfully. Now in its second year, the daytime event highlights the traditions and energy of historically Black colleges and universities, featuring drum majors, a lively drumline, and special appearances by Drum Major Mickey Mouse.
Downtown Disney District
The transformation of the Downtown Disney District continues into 2026 with several new additions, including Earl of Sandwich, Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby, and the athletic apparel retailer Lululemon. These upcoming openings follow a wave of new locations introduced in 2025, such as Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, Parkside Market, Disney Storyland Boutique, and Nectar Life.
DisneylandForward
The approval of DisneylandForward by Anaheim sets the stage for a decade of development from 2025 to 2035. While the possibilities are exciting, the main goal is to provide Disney with more autonomy over land use by relaxing the DRSP. This essentially allows Disney to request authorization to build without specifying their plans. It’s unlikely that any major construction (aside from a parking structure) will occur until the 2030s.
Disneyland Planning Guides
Magic in the Planning offers numerous guides to help you get started in your Disneyland vacation planning! Here are some to get you started!
Here are some resources to help you get started!
Disneyland Dining Guides:
Disneyland Attraction Guides:
Planning your first Disneyland vacation? Be sure to visit my step-by-step guide to get started!
