As the summer heat fades and autumn approaches, Disneyland brings back its highly anticipated Halloween Time festivities, running from September 2nd through October 31st.
Visitors to both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure (DCA) will experience the parks transformed with spooktacular decorations, seasonal food and drink, and special entertainment.
This blog provides a detailed breakdown of all the Halloween-time updates at Disneyland and DCA, covering park attractions, special events, seasonal snacks, and safety protocols. Here's everything you need to know before planning your magical (and spooky) trip.
1. Halloween at Disneyland: Classic Attractions with a Spooky Twist
Haunted Mansion Holiday
One of the highlights of Disneyland during Halloween Time is the Haunted Mansion Holiday. This beloved ride undergoes a spooky transformation, featuring characters from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Jack Skellington takes over the Haunted Mansion, offering a unique storyline that blends Christmas and Halloween.
Highlights:
- Special effects and decorations combining Halloween and Christmas themes.
- Appearances by The Nightmare Before Christmas characters like Jack, Sally, and Oogie Boogie.
- A stunning gingerbread house display that changes every year.
Pricing:
- Included with general admission to Disneyland. Ticket prices range from $104 to $179 depending on the day.
Space Mountain: Ghost Galaxy
By nightfall, Space Mountain turns into Space Mountain: Ghost Galaxy. The normally futuristic space ride is reimagined with spooky projections and ghostly apparitions that create an eerie experience for guests.
Highlights:
- High-speed space roller coaster with a haunting overlay.
- Creepy sound effects and visuals to enhance the thrill.
Pricing:
- Included with general admission to Disneyland.
Character Meet and Greets
Throughout the park, visitors can meet their favorite Disney characters dressed in festive Halloween costumes. For example, Rapunzel as a witch or Goofy as a pirate will make special appearances in character cavalcades and meet-and-greets.
Highlights:
- Fun photo opportunities with Disney characters in Halloween attire.
- Cavalcades featuring Mickey, Minnie, and more in their festive outfits.
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2. Disney California Adventure: Spooky Fun at DCA
Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween
Over at Cars Land in DCA, Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween adds a whimsical Halloween twist to the classic Luigi’s Rollickin' Roadsters ride. Luigi and Guido invite visitors to take part in their hauntingly delightful dance party with spooky decorations and festive music.
Highlights:
- Cars Land transformed with Halloween decorations like spider webs and ghostly décor.
- Fun, Halloween-themed music to accompany the ride.
Pricing:
- Included with general admission to Disney California Adventure.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Monsters After Dark
For thrill-seekers, the Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! ride becomes Monsters After Dark, featuring special Halloween-themed effects. Riders are tasked with helping Rocket save Groot while dodging monsters, spider webs, and other spine-chilling surprises.
Highlights:
- Dark and eerie special effects, including flashing lights and spooky soundscapes.
- Unique Halloween storyline starring Rocket and Groot.
Pricing:
- Included with general admission to Disney California Adventure.
Mickey's Trick & Treat Show
A brand-new offering this year is the Mickey's Trick & Treat show, premiering in Paradise Park. This interactive stage show is perfect for younger guests, featuring playful Halloween tricks and delightful treats with Mickey and friends.
Highlights:
- Family-friendly show with live performances and audience participation.
- Fun for younger children, with a non-scary Halloween atmosphere.
Pricing:
- Included with general admission to Disney California Adventure.
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3. Special Events: The Oogie Boogie Bash
For those looking for an extra dose of Halloween magic, Disney offers the Oogie Boogie Bash—a special after-hours event held on select nights in September and October. This separately ticketed event provides exclusive entertainment, character encounters, and trick-or-treat stations throughout the park.
Highlights:
- Themed entertainment, including a parade starring Oogie Boogie and other villains.
- Exclusive photo opportunities with rare Disney villains.
- Trick-or-treating for kids and adults alike.
Pricing:
- Tickets range from $134 to $189, depending on the date. Be sure to purchase early, as tickets sell out quickly.
4. Seasonal Treats: Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
No Halloween trip to Disneyland would be complete without indulging in the seasonal food offerings. From savory pumpkin dishes to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone.
Disneyland Treats
In Disneyland, a variety of pumpkin-spice-flavored treats will be available, including:
- Pumpkin Spice Churros: A fall twist on the classic churro, dusted with pumpkin spice and sugar.
- Pumpkin Spice Milkshakes and Soft-Serve Ice Cream: Creamy, pumpkin-infused delights perfect for cooling off during your park visit.
- Pumpkin Waffle Sandwiches: A hearty snack packed with autumn flavors.
Other notable offerings include pumpkin ravioli at Goofy’s Kitchen, pumpkin tart at Jolly Holiday Bakery, and pumpkin soup in a sourdough bread bowl.
Disney California Adventure Treats
At Disney California Adventure, the Cozy Cone Motel will serve up spooky treats like pumpkin cheesecake cones and chocolate mousse cones.
Exclusive treats during the Oogie Boogie Bash include:
- Candy Corn Funnel Cakes: A sugary delight that combines the flavors of classic funnel cakes with a candy corn twist.
- Caramel Apple Pops and Monster Pup Treats: Halloween-themed snacks perfect for kids.
Signature drinks include:
- Terror-Ritas: Available at Cocina Cucamonga, this spooky margarita comes with a ghoulish rim.
- Witch’s Brew Cocktails: Available at select locations around the parks.
Pricing for most seasonal treats ranges from $5 to $15, depending on the item.
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5. Health and Safety Protocols
Disneyland and Disney California Adventure continue to operate under enhanced safety measures to ensure the well-being of all guests. These include:
- Vaccination and Testing: Guests aged 2 and up must be fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID-19 test result.
- Masking: Face masks are optional outdoors but required in indoor spaces for all guests.
- Capacity Limits: Park attendance is managed via the reservation system to prevent overcrowding and maintain social distancing.
By maintaining these protocols, Disney ensures that visitors can enjoy the magic of Halloween Time while prioritizing safety.
A Spooky Season to Remember
With so much to offer during Halloween Time, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are the ultimate destinations for a magical and spooky celebration. From classic attractions like the Haunted Mansion Holiday to the exclusive Oogie Boogie Bash, there’s something for every Disney fan to enjoy. Don’t forget to indulge in delicious seasonal snacks, from pumpkin churros to candy corn funnel cakes, for a truly unforgettable Halloween experience.
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Plan Your Visit Today
Whether you're visiting for the attractions, entertainment, or delicious treats, Halloween Time at Disneyland promises to be a spellbinding experience. Be sure to check out park tickets, which range from $104 to $179 per person depending on the day, and grab your Oogie Boogie Bash tickets before they sell out!
Stay safe, enjoy the magic, and have a spooky good time at Disneyland this Halloween season!
