The Disneyland Resort in California really does the Spooky season right in my opinion. Starting September 1st both parks and Downtown Disney transform into a fall and spooky paradise. There is décor galore, special food to try and seasonal overlays and entertainment. While Oogie Boogie Bash is a separately ticketed event, you can still get plenty of Halloween festivities without attending the party.
Let’s start with Disneyland Park. A giant Mickey pumpkin greets you as you enter the park, bunting and florals are all oranges and fall tones, and the fireworks and projection show are the Halloween version every night, no separate party necessary. There’s seasonal treats at numerous locations to try, but that’s not all. My personal favorite thing (and the queue length suggests it is a favorite for many) is the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay which inserts The Nightmare Before Christmas into the classic attraction.
Disney California Adventure Park gets even more into spooky season, with Oogie Boogie greeting you as you enter, purple lights throughout the park at night, and characters out in their Halloween Costumes. Additionally, multiple rides have overlays with Guardian's of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout converting to Guardian's of the Galaxy: Monsters After Dark at 3pm each day. Cars Land gets a total makeover and there are so many fun details to see along with overlays on two of the rides all day. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the park for fun Halloween details.
Oogie Boogie Bash deserves its own special mention. It is a separately ticketed event occurring select nights at California Adventure. It has sold out every night before they even start in September, so if you are interested, be sure to secure those tickets early! It has a special parade, show, and characters galore! You can meet rare characters for meet and greet photos or the villains have treat trails where you can grab candy and snacks while observing their interactions. The show is absolutely a highlight for any Halloween or character fans out there.
The Downtown Disney District gets in on the fun as well. there are an abundance of pumpkins all around and you can even participate in Pluto's Pumpkin Hunt. There’s plenty of Halloween merchandise to purchase and more spooky treats to enjoy at various locations. There’s even more great food to try with special items celebrating Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month as well.
Even the Disney Resorts get in on the action. Goofy’s Kitchen transforms into a Halloween celebration at the Disneyland Hotel while The Grand Californian celebrated Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month with a gorgeous Coco confection display, a holiday shop with sweet treats and live music select nights.
What is your favorite way to celebrate spooky season at the parks? Let us know in the comments!
Maci SchauMaci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks. You can email Maci at
[email protected].
