A Christmas Fantasy Parade
Are you dreaming of a magical and festive holiday experience? Look no further than the Christmas Fantasy Parade at Disneyland! Step into a world of life-size gingerbread men, festive ice skaters, gorgeous Christmas trees, and of course all the classic Disney characters dressed in their holiday best! This parade typically has two showtimes each day (an afternoon and an evening performance), and is a must-see when visiting the parks during the holiday season.
From the classic favorites to the latest stars, this parade has something for everyone. Keep your eyes peeled for Mickey and Friends, Belle and Beast, Clarabelle Cow (our personal favorite!), Toy Story characters, Santa and his reindeer, Mrs. Claus and her elves, and so much more! The festive holiday music and lively performances add an extra dose of magic to the parade.
As the parade nears its end, Santa Claus himself makes a special appearance, spreading holiday cheer to all as he wishes everyone a merry Christmas in several different languages from around the world. This is one of our favorite parades at the Disneyland Resort, and if you have never had a chance to see it, you are going to want to make it a priority during your holiday visit to Disneyland.
Tips for an Unforgettable Parade Experience
Arrive Early for the Best Viewing Spots: Securing a good spot along the parade route is essential for the best viewing experience. Plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled parade time to find a prime spot along Main Street, U.S.A. or near the "it's a small world" area.
Snag a Gingerbread Cookie & Hot Chocolate: We getting a gingerbread cookie from Candy Palace and a hot chocolate from Jolly Holiday to eat while we enjoy the parade. You can mobile order both items from their dining locations and send a runner to pick up while the rest of your party saves your spot. (The best gingerbread cookies are the ones in the Candy Palace bakery cases, and the best hot chocolate is from Jolly Holiday.)
Daytime vs. Evening Parade: Disneyland offers two parade times - a daytime and an evening parade. Each provides a unique viewing experience. The daytime parade is vibrant and cheerful, perfect for capturing the colorful floats and lively performances. On the other hand, the evening parade enhances the twinkling lights, creating a cozier Christmas vibe that will leave you remembering your own childhood Christmases of years passed. Consider catching both parades to fully embrace the magic of A Christmas Fantasy Parade.