A Disneyland Christmas

[Coaster Cow]

Ok, before I ask these questions, some disclaimers:

-I have been to Disney World over Christmas to New Years, so I would like an answer a bit better than "crowded"

-I have been to Disney World probably about 10 times and Disneyland once, so getting in all the rides is not super important. we enjoy the atmosphere much more.

-All of those times in Florida have been during either Christmas Break or President's Day Break, so again, we are used to mobs

 

SO:

I was wondering exactly how crazy Disneyland is on Christmas Day/days surrounding Christmas compared to Disney World? I understand that Disneyland is more urban and so it can draw on a much larger local crowd, while people going to Disney World for Christmas are usually crazily committed or foreign (as we found out last year). Any real advice would be fantastic.

 

Also, what is the weather like for a SoCalChristmas?

 

Thanks in advance!

[jray21]

I'm not Robb, but I was at Disneyland this last weekend. It was absolute hell, and I bet Christmas Day will be as well. The longest lines were for Indiana Jones, Space Mountain, It's a Small World, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Finding Nemo had a small line at night. You are correct about the Urban environment. The greater Orlando area has approximately 2 million people, while LA has about 17 million! Add that two only having two parks and you can only imagine how horrible it can be. However, most of that time will be blackout days. Blackout days come with four levels (I think) SoCal select, SoCal Annual, Deluxe, and employees. For the most part, during the time you are there all the above will be blacked out. This will definitely put a limit on some of the locals, but for some it's a tradition so they will pay to go in, and all the hotels will be sold out. They do have magic morning at Disneyland, so if you are stating on property or at a good neighbor hotel, make sure you use it. But in all, it shouldn't be too different than Orlando. Fast passes will sell out extremely early, if you want to see a parade get there hours early, people will line up to get into the park extremely early, and do not eat at normal times. One thing I have noticed is that Disneyland likes to keep people in line behind about 6 turnstiles (they have a lot more), but at the very last second, they will open up a ton more. I've even heard cast members say they weren't opening them, only to see them open at the last minute. I always stand in front of the 'closed' lines, and they have always opened. Of course if it says 'cast entrance' or it's the exit, don't stand there. That's my two cents, but I have never been that close to christmas. Hopefully this bump will get some more expert responses.

[Coaster Cow]

Thanks!

I figured that it would be at least as bad as Orlando. I guess its a good thing I don't have the need to get on every single ride when I'm there, or I'd probably kill myself. The Blackout idea is neat, though.