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Moms Panel Monday: Tips for Making the Most of the Holidays at the Disneyland Resort with Preschoolers

Lisa Mendillo

by , Sr. Manager, Digital Integration

Lights are twinkling, “snow” is falling and reindeer can even be spotted dancing. This could mean only one thing—it’s time to celebrate the most magical time of the year at the Disneyland Resort. The entire family will enjoy the festive decorations, amazing food and holiday cheer that can be found at Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. And if this is your little one’s first trip to the Disneyland Resort during this most holiday season, they are in for a special experience!

To help little ones make the most of the merry magic that awaits them, members of the Disney Parks Moms Panel are here to share some of their favorite tips for enjoying the Disneyland Resort with your preschooler.

For Disney Parks Moms Panelist Linda, she loves nothing more than making magical memories with her family during the merriest of seasons. And one of her first tips? Taking a trip to see Santa Claus at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail area in Disney California Adventure park.

“If your preschooler has been good all year long, then definitely stop in to meet Santa so he/she can relay their holiday wish list to the jolly old man himself. He is available to meet guests until Christmas Eve, and then Santa Goofy will take over greeting guests through the end of the holidays on January 8.” There is nothing like seeing the magic of your preschooler meeting Santa for the first time!

“Another perfectly merry thing to do with your preschooler is watch “A Christmas Fantasy” parade as it marches down Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland park,” she recommends. “To make the day even more special and to secure your viewing spot ahead of time, book a Plaza Inn Dining Package!” The magic continues later on Main Street, U.S.A., as falling “snow” transforms the well-known street to a winter wonderland. For many little ones, this might be their very first glimpse at snow!

Fellow panelist Jennifer L., and mom of a preschooler, loves this magical season too and especially enjoys watching “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular with her little one. She also never misses a chance for her son to enjoy “it’s a small world” Holiday.

“One of the most iconic symbols of the season at the Disneyland Resort is the façade of “it’s a small world” Holiday with its thousands of dazzling lights. Little ones (and grown-ups!) will be amazed by this impressive light-up display,” Jennifer exclaims. “Inside you can see the classic attraction completely transformed with familiar music and adorable presentations of the holidays celebrated throughout the world. Since this is one of the most popular holiday offerings, I recommend grabbing a Disney FASTPASS so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities throughout the parks rather than waiting in line.”

Our panelists also remind Guest to take time to enjoy the splendor of the holiday décor that can be found throughout the resort, including the twinkling lights of Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle. And let’s not forget the festive feasting that only takes place this time of year… even little ones love tasty treats! “Many of the festive goodies this year are almost too cute to eat!” explains Jennifer. “We can’t wait to try the adorable Santa Hat Macaron and Holiday Brownie topped with chocolate presents and a gingerbread Christmas tree at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.”

For more information about traveling to Disneyland Resort with your preschooler, or planning your next Disney vacation, visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized answer from one of our knowledgeable panelists.