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How Busy is Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day? A Veteran’s Guide

The short, sharp answer: Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day is exceptionally busy. Expect some of the highest crowd levels of the entire year, rivaling peak summer days and Christmas week. This isn’t a day for leisurely strolls or racking up endless ride credits. Be prepared for long wait times, congested walkways, and a significant investment of patience. Now, let’s unpack why, and more importantly, how to navigate this challenging, yet potentially magical, day.

Understanding the Thanksgiving Day Disneyland Phenomenon

Thanksgiving is unique in the Disney calendar. Unlike Christmas, which is spread over multiple weeks, Thanksgiving offers a concentrated, four-day weekend. Many families seize this opportunity for a vacation, making Disneyland a prime destination. The combination of holiday cheer, cooler weather (relative to summer), and the allure of the Disney magic creates a perfect storm for massive crowds.

Furthermore, the Disneyland Resort decks itself out in holiday finery, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Think twinkling lights, holiday-themed parades, special menus, and seasonal ride overlays. These additions draw even more visitors seeking a quintessential holiday experience.

However, knowing it will be busy is one thing; preparing for it is another. Here are some essential tips:

Arrive Before Park Opening (Rope Drop): This is non-negotiable. Aim to be at the gates at least an hour before the officially published opening time.
Utilize Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane: While not a magic bullet, these services can significantly reduce wait times on select attractions. Understand the system inside and out before your visit.
Mobile Order Food: Skip the long lines at quick-service restaurants by placing your order through the Disneyland app.
Consider Single Rider Lines: If you’re willing to ride separately, single rider lines can drastically shorten your wait for certain popular attractions.
Focus on Shows and Entertainment: Parades, stage shows, and fireworks offer a welcome respite from the ride queues.
Embrace the Atmosphere: Don’t get bogged down by the crowds. Take time to soak in the holiday decorations, listen to the festive music, and enjoy the overall ambiance.

Thanksgiving Day at Disneyland: Is it Worth It?

Despite the anticipated crowds, many Disney aficionados argue that experiencing Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day is worth the effort. The holiday decorations are spectacular, the atmosphere is electric, and the memories created can last a lifetime. However, it is crucial to manage expectations and plan strategically.

If shorter wait times and a more relaxed experience are paramount, consider visiting Disneyland during a less crowded time of year. Mid-January, late February (excluding Presidents’ Day weekend), and early November often offer lower crowd levels.

If, however, the allure of a Thanksgiving Day Disney adventure is too strong to resist, prepare for a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on creating meaningful experiences rather than attempting to ride every attraction. Embrace the holiday spirit, be patient, and enjoy the magic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further help you prepare for your Thanksgiving Disneyland trip.

1. What are the expected wait times for popular rides on Thanksgiving Day?

Expect wait times for E-ticket attractions like Rise of the Resistance, Radiator Springs Racers, and Space Mountain to regularly exceed 2-3 hours. Even less popular rides can have waits of 45 minutes to an hour or more. Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane can help, but even those queues will be longer than usual.

2. Should I buy Park Hopper tickets for Thanksgiving Day?

Park Hopper tickets allow you to visit both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure on the same day. On a crowded day like Thanksgiving, Park Hopping becomes less effective. The time spent traveling between parks can eat into your day. Focus on one park if maximizing ride count is your goal. However, if you have specific dining reservations or experiences planned in both parks, Park Hopper might be worth it.

3. Are there special Thanksgiving Day meals available at Disneyland?

Yes! Many restaurants throughout both parks and the Downtown Disney District offer special Thanksgiving Day menus. These often include traditional Thanksgiving fare with a Disney twist. Reservations are absolutely essential and should be made well in advance (ideally 60 days out). Mobile ordering can also offer Thanksgiving specific meals.

4. Will there be special holiday entertainment on Thanksgiving Day?

Absolutely. Expect the regular holiday entertainment, such as the “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, the “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular, and special holiday-themed versions of rides like “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, to be running on Thanksgiving Day. Check the Disneyland app for showtimes and locations.

5. How early should I arrive at the parks on Thanksgiving Day?

As mentioned before, arrive at least one hour before the officially published park opening time. This will give you a head start and allow you to experience a few attractions with relatively shorter wait times before the crowds truly swell. If you’re aiming for Rise of the Resistance, even earlier is advisable.

6. Is Disney Genie+ worth the cost on Thanksgiving Day?

Disney Genie+ is highly recommended on Thanksgiving Day. While it won’t eliminate wait times entirely, it can significantly reduce them for select attractions. Familiarize yourself with how the system works before your visit to maximize its benefits. Remember that popular rides will run out of available Genie+ times quickly.

7. What is the best strategy for navigating Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day?

Plan ahead: Create a detailed itinerary and prioritize your must-do attractions.
Utilize mobile ordering: Skip the long lines at quick-service restaurants.
Take advantage of shows and entertainment: Escape the ride queues and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Be patient: Expect crowds and long wait times. Don’t let frustration ruin your day.
Stay hydrated and take breaks: The parks can be exhausting, especially on a crowded day.

8. What should I pack for Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day?

Comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Layers of clothing: The weather can be unpredictable.
Sunscreen and a hat: Even in November, the California sun can be strong.
Portable phone charger: You’ll be using your phone extensively for the Disneyland app.
Snacks and drinks: While food is readily available, having your own snacks and drinks can save time and money.

9. Are there any attractions I should avoid on Thanksgiving Day?

It’s less about avoiding specific attractions and more about being strategic. Be prepared to wait for popular rides, and consider focusing on less crowded experiences like shows, walk-through attractions, and character meet-and-greets. Single Rider lines are also a good option to shorten your wait.

10. What are the best times to ride popular attractions on Thanksgiving Day?

The first hour of park opening and the last two hours before closing typically offer the shortest wait times. However, even during these times, expect lines to be longer than usual. Watching parades and firework shows can also be a good opportunity to get in shorter lines.

11. How crowded is Downtown Disney on Thanksgiving Day?

Downtown Disney can also be quite crowded on Thanksgiving Day, especially in the evening. Many people who aren’t visiting the parks come to Downtown Disney for dining and shopping. Make reservations for dinner well in advance.

12. What if I decide Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day is too crowded?

If you arrive and find the crowds overwhelming, consider exploring other options such as visiting a nearby beach, going for a hike, or simply relaxing at your hotel. You could also try visiting Disneyland on another day of your trip, potentially a less crowded one, depending on the length of your stay. There’s no shame in adapting your plans!

Ultimately, experiencing Disneyland on Thanksgiving Day is a personal choice. By understanding the potential challenges and planning accordingly, you can still create a memorable and magical holiday experience. Remember, a little bit of pixie dust and a whole lot of patience go a long way. Happy Thanksgiving!