If you’re heading to Disneyland during the holidays, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss—A Christmas Fantasy Parade! This magical celebration has been bringing joy to guests for 30 years now, and honestly? It’s still one of the best ways to soak up all that Christmas magic at the Happiest Place on Earth!

Doesn’t matter if it’s your first time viewing, trying to figure out the best spot to watch or you’ve been before and you’re looking for insider tips, our guide’s got everything you need! We’re talking parade times, viewing locations, character lineup, dining packages, and all those little secrets that’ll make your experience totally unforgettable!

What Makes A Christmas Fantasy Parade So Special?

A Christmas Fantasy Parade isn’t just any old parade—it’s basically the heart and soul of Disneyland’s holiday season. Picture this: toy soldiers marching in perfect formation, snowmen dancing down Main Street, reindeer prancing alongside Santa’s sleigh, and all your favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday best!

The parade debuted way back on November 23, 1995—Thanksgiving Day, actually—replacing the Very Merry Christmas Parade that had run through the ’70s and ’80s. Fast forward to today, and we’re celebrating its 30th anniversary season. Talk about standing the test of time!

What really sets this parade apart is how it captures that warm, fuzzy Christmas feeling without going overboard. You’ve got classic holiday tunes mixed with Disney magic, spectacular floats that light up the street, and enough festive energy to make even the Grinch crack a smile!

When Can You Catch the Parade?

Here’s the rundown for the 2025-2026 holiday season:

Dates: November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026

Showtimes: Daily at 2:45 PM and 5:15 PM (note: times shifted slightly from previous years)

The parade runs twice every day it’s scheduled, which gives you some flexibility in planning your park day. But here’s the thing—and this is super important—always check the Disneyland app on the day of your visit because times can change, especially during the first weekend of December when Disneyland holds the Candlelight Processional!

First Showing vs. Second Showing: Which Should You Pick?

This is probably one of the most common questions, and honestly, both have their perks.

The 2:45 PM parade happens during daytime, so you’ll get bright, clear views of all the floats and characters! It’s perfect if you’ve got little ones who might crash early or if you want to catch it and still have time for other attractions later. Some folks say this one’s slightly less crowded since people take midday breaks.

The 5:15 PM parade is where the magic really happens though! By the time this one rolls around, the sun’s setting and all those twinkling lights on Main Street USA create this absolutely dreamy atmosphere! The Christmas tree at the end of Main Street is all lit up, the garlands are glowing, and everything just feels more festive! The trade-off? Bigger crowds.

Pro tip: If you’re watching near “it’s a small world” for the earlier show, sit on the west side so the sun’s not blinding you!

The Parade Route: Where Does It Go?

The parade follows the classic Disneyland parade route, stretching from “it’s a small world” all the way to Town Square on Main Street USA.

Here’s how it works:

• First parade (2:45 PM): Starts at “it’s a small world” (back of the park) and makes its way to Town Square (front of the park)

• Second parade (5:15 PM): Goes in reverse—starts at Town Square and heads back to “it’s a small world”

Keep in mind the parade takes about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. But here’s something a lot of people don’t realize: the start time is when the parade steps off from the gate, not when it reaches your viewing spot. Depending on where you’re standing, you might wait an extra 15-20 minutes before the parade reaches you.

Meet the Stars: Characters and Floats

One of the best parts about A Christmas Fantasy Parade is seeing who shows up. This isn’t just a quick character wave—it’s a full-on Christmas spectacular with seven different units.

Opening Act: Toys and Toy Soldiers

The parade kicks off with a gorgeous ballerina float featuring a teddy bear, books, and a giant wreath. Right behind comes the toy soldier marching band—these guys are seriously impressive with their synchronized moves!

Santa’s Mail Room

Mickey and Minnie take center stage here, dressed in adorable green and red holiday sweaters. They’re helping organize all those letters to Santa from their festive mailroom float, complete with a Christmas tree and presents. Donald’s up on the roof, and Chip ‘n Dale are sorting mail into “Naughty” and “Nice” piles (too cute)!

Winter Wonderland

Dancing snowmen glide down the street, followed by these amazing snowflake skaters on rollerblades. Then comes the Frozen float with Anna and Olaf at the front and Elsa standing tall on an elevated platform. If your kids are Frozen fans, this is their moment!

Sweet Treats

Clarabelle Cow shows up with dancing gingerbread bakers and the cutest gingerbread cookie dancers (they made a comeback after being absent for two years). Goofy’s dressed as a chef in a giant gingerbread house doorway, while Pluto waves from the roof!

Candlelight Ball

Lady Tremaine and her daughters flounce ahead of the Princess float like they own the place! Then you’ve got Snow White and her Prince, Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen, Aurora with Prince Phillip, Cinderella with Prince Charming, plus Belle and the Beast. It’s basically a royal Christmas ball on wheels!

Toy Story Gang

Buzz Lightyear rides his toy block float, followed by Jessie in a red vehicle driven by a Green Army Man. Woody shows up on his rocking horse, and toy factory elves dance alongside!

The Grand Finale

Here comes the moment everyone’s been waiting for—Santa Claus himself! His dancing reindeer (wearing red bows and jingle bells) lead the way. Santa rides high above the crowd in his iconic red sleigh, overflowing with toys, while enthusiastic elves wave from his North Pole toy factory!

Best Viewing Spots (The Secret Sauce)

Alright, this is where things get real. Your viewing spot can make or break your parade experience, so let’s break down the options.

Main Street USA (The Classic Choice)

There’s a reason most people flock here—watching the parade with Sleeping Beauty Castle in the background is absolutely iconic! Main Street is designed for parades, with straight stretches that give you long views of the floats.

Top spots on Main Street:

• In front of Main Street Cinema: You get loud music, great views, and a spot that’s slightly less competitive than right at the castle! Get there about 45-60 minutes early.

• Town Square behind the flagpole: This is one of those “secret spots” that doesn’t fill up quite as fast. Stand slightly off-center to the left for the best castle views. The parade curves around Town Square, so you’ll see floats coming and going.

• At the curves in Town Square: Position yourself on the outer perimeter at one of the curved sections. The parade curls around, giving you a longer viewing time!

Near “it’s a small world” (The Local’s Pick)

This is hands-down one of the best-kept secrets. Why? Way fewer crowds than Main Street, and you can often snag a spot just 30-45 minutes before showtime.

The area near “it’s a small world” Holiday and along the Matterhorn Bobsleds gives you excellent views! Plus, if you’re watching the second parade here, you can catch the “it’s a small world” Holiday lighting show around 5:15 PM, then stick around for the parade!

Along the Parade Route by Matterhorn

The stretch between “it’s a small world” and Fantasyland near the Matterhorn offers solid viewing without the Main Street madness. You won’t get that picture-perfect castle backdrop, but you’ll have more breathing room.

Reserved Viewing (Worth the Splurge?)

If you want guaranteed great seats without the wait, there’s the Plaza Inn Parade Dining Package! Here’s what you get:

• Cost: $58 per adult, $32 per child (ages 3-9), plus tax

• What’s included: A festive lunch (like beef bourguignon, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and black forest yule log for dessert) plus a voucher for reserved viewing at the second parade

• Dining time: 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM

• Parade viewing: Second showing only (5:15 PM)

The reserved area is mainly standing room or ground seating, and it’s separate from the restaurant. You’ll need to arrive no sooner than 10 minutes before your reservation time.

Is it worth it? If you hate waiting and value convenience, absolutely. You get a fantastic meal (seriously, people rave about it), and you don’t have to stake out a spot an hour early!

How to book: Make reservations through the Disneyland app or website 60 days in advance. These sell out fast, so set your alarm for 6 AM Pacific when reservations open.

How Early Should You Arrive?

This depends on how picky you are about your spot and which showing you’re catching.

For Main Street USA viewing:

• Prime curb spots (first row): 60-90 minutes early

• Decent viewing: 30-45 minutes early

• Last-minute “I’ll take anything”: 10-15 minutes early

For “it’s a small world” area:

• Good spots: 30-45 minutes early

• Casual viewing: 15-20 minutes early

The second parade (5:15 PM) tends to draw bigger crowds because it’s more magical at dusk. First parade watchers sometimes have an easier time finding spots.

What to Bring for Parade Viewing

Trust me on this—coming prepared makes all the difference!

Must-Have Items

Blanket or sheet: This is huge. Spread it out to claim your spot and give your family somewhere comfortable to sit. Go for something compact that folds up easily and fits in your bag.

Snacks and water: You’re going to be waiting, especially if you arrive early. Pack granola bars, fruit, crackers—whatever keeps everyone happy. Refillable water bottles are clutch.

Portable phone charger: You’ll be using the Disneyland app to check wait times, mobile order food, and snap photos.

Light jacket or layers: Even Southern California gets chilly in the evening during winter. Dress in layers you can peel off if needed.

Entertainment for kids: If you’re waiting with little ones, bring something to keep them occupied—coloring books, small toys, tablets with downloaded shows.

Pro Tips

• Mobile order your food beforehand: Use the Disneyland app to order from nearby restaurants (like Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe or Plaza Inn) and pick it up to eat during your wait. Game changer!

• Send a scout: Have one or two people claim the spot with a blanket while others in your party ride attractions or shop. Just don’t leave your spot unattended—someone should always stay with your blanket.

• Mark your stroller: If you’re bringing a stroller, decorate it with bright ribbon, a balloon, or unique markers. Cast members move strollers constantly to clear areas for parades, and you’ll want to find yours easily.

Parade Day Strategy

Here’s how to maximize your day while working in the parade.

Sample Itinerary (Second Parade Viewing)

• Morning: Rope drop and hit major attractions early when lines are short

• 12:30-2:30 PM: If you have the dining package, enjoy lunch at Plaza Inn

• 3:00-4:30 PM: Ride more attractions or explore shops

• 4:30 PM: Head to your viewing spot (adjust timing based on location)

• 5:15 PM: Watch the parade

• 5:40 PM: After the parade, head to “it’s a small world” Holiday or grab dinner

• 7:30 PM: Catch Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty Castle with snowfall

• 9:30 PM: End the night with Believe…In Holiday Magic fireworks

Crossing the Parade Route

Once the parade route is blocked off (usually 30-45 minutes before showtime), you can’t cross it. Plan your day accordingly—if you need to get from one side of the park to the other, do it before the route closes!

Accessibility and Special Needs

Disneyland provides designated wheelchair and ECV viewing areas for the parade. These are first-come, first-served, so arrive early. The person with mobility needs can typically bring one or two companions into the ADA viewing area.

Ask a cast member for directions to the accessible viewing location. They’ll point you to the designated spot, which is usually along Main Street USA near the firehouse or in other areas along the route.

Bad Weather Policy

Southern California doesn’t get much rain, but when it does, parades with live performers typically get canceled. A Christmas Fantasy Parade involves dancers and performers on the ground, so if it’s raining, it’s usually called off for safety reasons.

If the parade is canceled, Disneyland sometimes runs a Holiday Cavalcade instead—a shorter, weather-friendly alternative featuring characters in vehicles.

Always check the Disneyland app for updates on the day of your visit. Weather can change quickly, and Disneyland will post cancellations there.

Photography Tips

Want to capture those magical moments? Here’s what the pros do!

Camera Settings

For daytime parade (2:45 PM):

• Shutter speed: 1/125th second minimum

• Aperture: f/2.8 to f/5.6

• ISO: 400-800

For evening parade (5:15 PM):

• Shutter speed: 1/125th second (to freeze motion)

• Aperture: f/1.4 to f/2.8 (wide open for more light)

• ISO: Auto, maxed at 3200-6400

Other Tips

• Use fast lenses (f/1.4 to f/2.8 range) for low-light situations

• Shoot in burst mode to capture crisp shots

• Position yourself strategically for castle backgrounds

• Arrive early to scope out lighting conditions

Soundtrack and Music

The parade features a mix of classic Christmas songs and original Disney music. The main theme, “A Christmas Fantasy,” weaves throughout with lyrics about caroling, bells ringing, and Santa Claus making dreams come true!

You’ll hear familiar tunes like “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and various holiday standards blended with Disney’s magical orchestrations. The music’s catchy enough that you’ll probably be humming it for days afterward!

Cost and Admission

Here’s the best part—A Christmas Fantasy Parade is included with your regular Disneyland Park admission. You don’t need a special ticket or extra payment to watch it (unless you opt for the dining package)!

Just make sure you have valid park admission and a park reservation for Disneyland Park on the day you plan to visit.

Insider Tips and Secrets

Ready for some next-level advice? Here’s what most people don’t know!

Little-Known Facts

• The parade features 113 characters total, including 15 elves, 12 toy soldiers, 8 reindeer, 8 snowmen, and 4 gingerbread cookies

• The parade has been running for 30 years as of the 2025 season—one of the longest-running Christmas parades in Disneyland history

• Some floats were carried over from the Very Merry Christmas Parade that it replaced

• The parade direction alternates, so the viewing experience is different depending on which showing you catch

Crowd-Beating Strategies

• Weekdays are always less crowded than weekends for both the parks and parade viewing

• The first two weeks of the holiday season (mid-November through early December) are moderate crowd levels before the Christmas rush

• December 20-31 is absolute madness—peak crowds everywhere

• If you’re visiting during peak times, consider the dining package to skip the wait

Make It Extra Special

• Watch the parade, then immediately hop on “it’s a small world” Holiday

• Coordinate your parade viewing with other holiday experiences like the “it’s a small world” lighting show or castle snowfall

• Bring hot cocoa or festive snacks to enjoy while you wait

• If you’re celebrating something special, ask a cast member if you can get a celebration button—characters sometimes give extra attention during the parade

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is A Christmas Fantasy Parade?

The parade lasts approximately 20-25 minutes from start to finish. However, depending on where you’re viewing along the route, you might see it pass by for 10-15 minutes at your specific location.

Is A Christmas Fantasy Parade every day?

During the holiday season (November 14, 2025 – January 7, 2026), the parade runs twice daily at 2:45 PM and 5:15 PM. Always check the Disneyland app for the most current schedule, as times can change.

Do I need a reservation to watch the parade?

Nope! Viewing along the parade route is first-come, first-served. However, you can purchase the Plaza Inn Parade Dining Package for reserved viewing of the second showing.

Can I save a spot for my family with a blanket?

Yes, you can use a blanket to hold your spot, but someone from your group should stay with it. Don’t leave blankets unattended to save spots while your whole party goes off—that’s not cool and cast members may remove them.

What’s the best parade viewing spot for families with young kids?

Near “it’s a small world” is fantastic for families. Less crowded, easier to navigate with strollers, and you can enjoy the holiday decorations on the attraction before or after the parade. Plus, there’s more room for kids to sit comfortably.

Where does the Christmas parade start at Disneyland?

It depends on which showing. The first parade (2:45 PM) starts at “it’s a small world” and ends at Town Square. The second parade (5:15 PM) goes in reverse—starting at Town Square and ending at “it’s a small world”.

Can I bring food and drinks to watch the parade?

Absolutely! Disneyland allows you to bring food and non-alcoholic drinks into the park (no glass containers). This is perfect for snacking while you wait for the parade to start.

Is the parade canceled if it rains?

Usually, yes. A Christmas Fantasy Parade features live performers dancing on the ground, so it’s typically canceled during rain for safety reasons. Disneyland may run a Holiday Cavalcade instead.

What time should I arrive to get a good spot?

For Main Street USA, aim for 45-90 minutes early depending on how prime you want your spot. For “it’s a small world” area, 30-45 minutes is usually enough. The second parade tends to be more crowded.

Are strollers allowed in parade viewing areas?

Yes, but you’ll likely need to park your stroller in designated areas and walk to your viewing spot. Cast members move strollers around frequently, especially near parade routes, so mark yours with something distinctive.

How much does the parade dining package cost?

The Plaza Inn Parade Dining Package costs $58 per adult and $32 per child (ages 3-9), plus tax. It includes lunch and reserved viewing for the 5:15 PM parade.

When should I book the parade dining package?

Book exactly 60 days in advance at 6 AM Pacific time. These packages are limited and sell out quickly, especially for peak dates.

Is there a free viewing area for the parade?

Yes! The entire parade route is free to view with your park admission. Just find a spot along the route from “it’s a small world” to Main Street USA.

Can I watch the parade from a restaurant on Main Street?

Some restaurants have outdoor seating along the parade route, but reservations for those specific tables are extremely competitive. Your best bet is the official dining package.

Does the parade run during Disneyland’s Candlelight Processional weekend?

The parade schedule may change during Candlelight Processional (usually first weekend of December). Check the Disneyland app for specific times that weekend.

Making the Most of Your Holiday Visit

A Christmas Fantasy Parade is just one piece of the amazing holiday experience at Disneyland! The whole park transforms into a winter wonderland with decorations, special food, seasonal overlays on attractions, and magical entertainment!

Don’t forget to check out:

• “it’s a small world” Holiday with hundreds of sparkling lights

• Haunted Mansion Holiday (if it’s still running into January)

• Holiday-themed treats and snacks throughout the park

• Wintertime Enchantment castle lighting show with snowfall

• Believe…In Holiday Magic fireworks

The holidays at Disneyland run November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026, giving you plenty of time to plan your visit!

Why This Parade Is Pure Magic

After 30 years, A Christmas Fantasy Parade still captures something special that newer, flashier entertainment sometimes misses—that warm, nostalgic feeling of Christmas mixed with classic Disney magic!

Whether you’re watching Mickey and Minnie sort Santa’s mail, dancing along with the gingerbread cookies, or waving to Santa himself as he rolls by in his sleigh, there’s something about this parade that just hits different. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are!

So here’s my advice: Don’t skip it. Don’t think “oh, it’s just a parade, we can catch it next time.” Make it a priority! Grab your spot early, bring some snacks, get comfy on your blanket, and just soak it all in. These are the moments you’ll remember long after you’ve forgotten which rides you went on!

The magic of Christmas at Disneyland isn’t just about the decorations or the special events—it’s about moments like this, watching snowflakes dance down Main Street while classic holiday music fills the air and your favorite characters wave from glittering floats. That’s the stuff memories are made of!

Have the most magical holiday season at Disneyland, and enjoy every second of A Christmas Fantasy Parade! Trust me, it’ll be the highlight of your trip!