Planning Your Visit to Disneyland in 2024: Pixar Fest, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and more!
Disneyland in 2024 is an exciting time to visit! runDisney returned to the parks back in January 2024 with the Disneyland Half Marathon, and Pixar Place Hotel (the refurbishment of Paradise Pier) is now open and taking guests. Pixar Fest is underway, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is also scheduled to open at some point in 2024!
With so many new things taking place, Disneyland in 2024 is sure to be an amazing time to venture into the parks!
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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.
February
- Weather: Overall, Disneyland in February will see cooler temperatures and rain. 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 mind 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’re wanting 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. Also, Easter falls on March 31, 2024. This will definitely bring crowds to the parks in the week leading up to it as well as the week after.
- 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. (No announcement has been made yet for 2024.) 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 March 31, 2024, which means Easter crowds will be present during at least the first week of the month. In fact, it’s safe to say the first two weeks of the month will be super busy as it is also spring break season. If crowds are an issue for you, it would be best to avoid these two weeks of the month. The end of the month should see fewer crowds, however, as many schools are finished with their spring breaks at this point.
- Other Considerations: The end of April 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’re looking 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 2024. 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 2024. 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 Thursday in 2024. 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 for fall. 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, however, 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 early September 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 early September 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, Veteran’s Day Weekend could also see an increase in crowds, 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 (prior to 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. That being said, 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
- Splash Mountain closed on March 31, 2023, for retheming. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is scheduled to debut on November 15, 2024.
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant will be closed on October 1, 2024, and it will reopen on October 2.
- “it’s a small world” will close on September 16 for refurbishment. Rumor has it that during this time, it will be receiving its popular holiday overlay and reopen on November 15. It is also rumored to be closing again on January 21 for further maintenance, and it will likely reopen in the spring of 2025.
- Jungle Cruise will be closed from September 16 through October 4, 2024.
- Sailing Ship Columbia will be closing September 23 and reopening on September 27.
- Indiana Jones Adventure will be closing on September 9 and reopening on September 14.
- The Disneyland Monorail closed on August 12, and it will be reopening on September 13, 2024.
- Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island will be closing on September 16, and it will be reopening on September 19.
- The Disney Gallery is now closed and will reopen on October 1, 2024.
- The Disneyland Railroad closed on August 5, 2024, and no reopening date has been announced yet.
- The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln closed on April 16, 2024. Disney recently announced that there will be a new show coming to the Main Street Opera House featuring the first-ever Walt Disney animatronic. This is expected to open in 2025.
California Adventure Park
- World of Color – ONE will be closing on September 9. This refurbishment will likely last for several weeks.
Everything Coming to Disneyland in 2024 (and beyond)
Disneyland Resort
*These festivities will be taking place throughout the entire Disneyland Resort!
January 11-14 – Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend
runDisney is making its return to the Disneyland Resort in 2024, and the weekend will feature a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and a challenge event (10K and half marathon). Beginning in 2024, Disney is offering its Coast to Coast Race Challenge. Those who complete any 10-mile race or longer at both Walt Disney World the Disneyland Resort in the same calendar year will receive a runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge medal.
April 26-August 4 – Pixar Fest
The highly anticipated Pixar Fest is making a comeback at the Disneyland Resort! Prepare to be immersed in a world of vibrant decorations, special menus, and unique merchandise, as the theme parks, hotels, and Downtown Disney District embrace the magic of Pixar for a limited time. This celebration of friendship will feature heartwarming entertainment centered around beloved Pixar stories.
Disney California Adventure park will introduce a brand-new daytime parade called “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!”, while Disneyland park will bring back the emotional “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” with exciting new scenes. Keep an eye out for new characters like Ember and Wade from “Elemental,” as well as Red Panda Mei from “Turning Red.” (More details will be announced soon!)
August 23-October 31 – 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.
September 5-8 – Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend
This newly announced race will take place at the Disneyland Resort for the Halloween season! Runners can choose from multiple race distances including a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and a Challenge event. The weekend will also feature kids’ races and yoga.
Begins November 15 – Holidays at the Disneyland Resort
During the holiday season at Disneyland, the entire resort comes alive with various festive offerings. Guests can immerse themselves in the Christmas Fantasy Parade, explore the holiday-themed version of “it’s a small world,” witness the dazzling “Believe…In Holiday Magic” fireworks, admire the enchanting Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, and experience the transformed Haunted Mansion Holiday, among other exciting attractions.
At California Adventure, visitors can immerse themselves in the Disney Festival of the Holidays, Watercolor – Season of Light, Mater’s Jingle Jamboree, Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl, and other exciting experiences. There is a multitude of options for everyone to enjoy and celebrate the holiday spirit.
January 30-February 2, 2025 – runDisney Disneyland Half Marathon
runDisney is making its return to the Disneyland Resort in 2025, and the weekend will feature a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and a challenge event (10K and half marathon).
Disneyland Park
January 23-February 14 – Disney After Dark: Sweethearts’ Night
This ticketed event will take place on select nights in January and February 2024 in Disneyland park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM – 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 $139 per guest, and dates include January 23, 25, and 30 and February 1, 6, 8, 12, and 14.
February 17 & 24 – Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park
The 2024 “Celebrate Gospel” concerts will take place at the Fantasyland Theatre. Marvin Sapp will be headlining on Feb. 17, followed by Tasha Cobbs Leonard on Feb. 24. This annual event showcases Gospel music, featuring talented artists and community choirs from Southern California.
March 5 & 7 – Disney After Dark: Disney Channel Nite
This ticketed event will take place on March 5 & 7, 2024 in Disneyland Park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM – 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 will also be open after hours for the party! Prices start at $139 per guest.
April 5-June 2 – Season of the Force at Disneyland Park
Season of the Force is a limited-time event at Disneyland park, featuring the thrilling Hyperspace Mountain and a variety of specially-themed food, beverages, merchandise, and more. As part of the celebration, guests can embark on new adventures aboard Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, and witness a fresh perspective on the Disneyland park fireworks from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, accompanied by galactic music.
April 16-May 9 – Disney After Dark: Star Wars Nite
This ticketed event will take place on select nights in April and May 2024 in Disneyland Park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM – 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 $159 per guest, and dates include April 16, 18, 23, 25, & 30 and May 2, 7, & 9.
May 25 – Fantasmic!
Starting on May 24, “Fantasmic!” will once again light up the Rivers of America in Disneyland park. This mesmerizing nighttime spectacle will showcase novel special effects, an exhilarating confrontation between Sorcerer Mickey and Maleficent, and the iconic “Peter Pan” scene. With enchanting music, live performers, character cameos, and cutting-edge projections, this cherished show brings beloved Disney stories to life.
June 18 & 20 – Disney After Dark: Pride Nite
This ticketed event will take place on June 18 and 20, 2024, at Disneyland Park. Festivities begin with a 3-hour pre-party mix-in from 6:00 PM – 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 $159 per guest.
November 15, 2024 – Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
It was announced some time ago that Splash Mountain would be reimagined, and now we know that this rethemed water flume ride will open in late 2024! Called “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” this iconic ride will be welcoming Tiana and her friends for a brand new Princess and the Frog theme.
- There will be a brand-new cast of original Disney characters with distinct names and personalities.
- We can expect dozens of entirely new Audio-Animatronics figures.
- We will see cute critters throughout the attraction bringing the diverse flavors of musical gumbo found in New Orleans.
- There will be new, original music alongside some of your favorite songs from the film.
- The scent of beignets being prepared for the party will be part of the attraction queue. (Yay!)
- Many voice actors will be reprising their roles in the attraction including Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen, Michael Leon Wooley as Louis, and Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana.
- We will see familiar characters from the film such as Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Mama Odie, Louis, Eudora, Charlotte, “Big Daddy,” the King and Queen of Maldonia, and Prince Ralphie.
2026 – New scenes in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Din Djarin and Grogu will be featured in a new version of this iconic attraction. The mission will debut around the same time as the new movie “The Mandalorian and Grogu,” which will be released on May 22, 2026.
California Adventure
January 23-February 18 – Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park
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 22-23 – Anaheim Ducks Days at Disney California Adventure Park
To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Anaheim Ducks Hockey Club, Disneyland Resort and the team have organized a two-day event in Hollywood Land. Highlights include a festive parade, a fan zone with exciting activities, photo opportunities, and appearances by both current and past players.
March 1-April 22 – 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 10-June 14 – Grad Nites
Grad Nites is a special ticketed event that will be back in 2024! The parties take place on select dates in both May and June. There are three ticket options starting ranging in price from $109-$229. This year’s dates include May 10, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22, 23, 28 & 31 and June 2, 5, 7, 9, 12 & 14.
August 23-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.
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
Downtown Disney District
The Downtown Disney District is undergoing a transformation to become a top destination for unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences. Recent additions include popular spots like Din Tai Fung, Salt & Straw, and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. The former AMC Theatre site and surrounding area will be repurposed into a new lifestyle space with a blend of vibrant color palettes, multicultural design elements, and an expanded selection of dining and shopping options.
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!
