Everything You Need to Know About Disney Festival of Holidays

The Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure is a seasonal celebration like no other, offering a unique blend of holiday festivities, cultural traditions, delicious food, and entertainment. Here's your ultimate guide to experiencing the magic of this festival!

Festival Entertainment

At the heart of the Festival of Holidays is a vibrant array of entertainment. From lively musical performances to spirited dance shows, the festival showcases a variety of cultures and traditions. Each performance is a window into the soulful expressions of different communities, making it a must-see for visitors. Be sure to check the daily schedule for showtimes and locations to catch these memorable performances. Here are some highlights:

  • Join in the fun with Mickey's Happy Holidays, where Mickey Mouse and friends groove along with the enchanting beats of the Holiday Toy Drummers.

  • Spot beloved Disney characters, including Mirabel from the animated movie Encanto.

  • Enjoy Mostly Kosher's unique tribute to Hanukkah, blending musical genres from klezmer and jazz to Latin and rock.

  • Experience the vibrant Blue13 Dance Company as they celebrate Diwali with traditional dances at a memorable Bollywood party.

  • Listen to Phat Cat Swinger's classy and brassy renditions of swinging holiday tunes with a modern twist.

  • Be captivated by The Mistletoes, an a cappella group that brings a rhythmic and soulful twist to Christmas and Kwanzaa classics.

  • Revel in the festive sounds of Tina and The Sounds of Celebration! Featuring Tina’s powerful vocals, the band performs an exhilarating mix of holiday songs, salsa, merengue, cumbia, and rock Latino.

  • Watch the Holiday Toy Drummers as they bring joy with their unique and rhythmic drumming parade.

Festive Foods Marketplace

No festival is complete without delectable treats, and the Festive Foods Marketplace is a foodie's paradise. This culinary journey features a variety of marketplaces offering traditional holiday dishes and beverages from around the world. Whether you crave sweet, savory, or spicy, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to try the unique holiday-themed dishes that are exclusive to the festival!

Get ready for a taste adventure with these festive offerings:

  • A Twist on Tradition: Indulge in unique holiday favorites like the savory Kugel Mac & Cheese and the refreshing Glacier Margarita.

  • Brews & Bites: Savor a delightful mix of frosty drinks and tasty treats, including the Churro Ale with Frozen Beer Slush and the mouth-watering Impossible™ Chorizo Queso Fundido.

  • Favorite Things: Enjoy dishes bursting with flavor, like the succulent Braised Pork Belly Adobo and the delectable Mad Santa Macaron, inspired by the Disney+ series "The Santa Clauses."

  • Grandma’s Recipes: Relish traditional family recipes with dishes like Barbacoa Tamal de Res and drinks like the Berry Pomegranate Paloma.

  • Holiday Duets: Discover perfect culinary pairings such as Esquites Carnitas Mac & Cheese, a Chocolate Tart with TWIX® cookie bar pieces, and the Cuban Parranda Cocktail.

  • Making Spirits Bright: Celebrate with festive offerings like the Chocolate Mint Stout Shake, Impossible™ Chicken Curry Bites, and Pumpkin Layered Cheesecake.

  • Merry Mashups: Experience a fun blend of seasonal flavors with Southern Mac & Cheese, Maple Hazelnut Hot Buttered Rum, and Santa’s Milk & Cookies Hot Cocoa inspired by "The Santa Clauses" on Disney+.

  • Winter Sliderland: Delight in mini holiday treats, including the Beef Brisket Slider, Togarashi Karaage Chicken Slider, and the festive Spiced Pear Mule.

These culinary delights offer a unique spin on traditional holiday fare, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds!

Disney ¡Viva Navidad!

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! is a lively celebration that brings the spirit of Latino culture to the forefront. This joyous event includes a street party with Disney characters, musicians, and dancers, all celebrating the traditions of Christmas, Navidad, and Three Kings' Day. The energy and color of this celebration are infectious and a highlight for many visitors. Here’s what to expect:
Disney ¡Viva Navidad! – A Vibrant Street Celebration

Join the lively street party with live music, folklórico and samba dancers, and Mickey and Minnie showing off their festive fiesta attire!

Three King’s Day

Circle January 6, 2024, in your calendars, as Disney Festival of Holidays and Disney ¡Viva Navidad! celebrate the magic of Three Kings’ Day.

Disney Character Encounters

Experience enchanting moments with beloved Disney characters dressed in their festive holiday attire!

Meet Encanto's Mirabel

Celebrate the magic of Disney’s musical comedy "Encanto" with special appearances by its brave young protagonist, Mirabel.

Vibrant Holiday Performances

Brighten your holiday spirit with dynamic live shows featuring a diverse array of musical talent.

Festive Decorations and Tasty Treats

Paradise Gardens transforms into a holiday wonderland adorned with colorful papel picado banners, piñatas, and a burst of seasonal excitement.

Feeling hungry? Paradise Garden Grill offers a taste of authentic Mexican dishes, perfect for holiday dining.

Visiting Santa Claus

For those looking to capture the timeless tradition of meeting Santa Claus, head over to Pooh’s Corner in Disneyland, the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at DCA or any of the 3 Disneyland Resort Hotels. These areas transform into a holiday wonderland where you can meet and take pictures with Santa himself. It's a magical experience for children and those young at heart, adding a classic touch to your holiday festivities.

Disney Eats: Foodie Guide to Holidays at the Disneyland Resort 2023

For an in-depth look at the culinary offerings during the holidays, the Disney Eats Foodie Guide is your go-to resource. It details the various holiday dishes available across the Disneyland Resort, including special treats and beverages that celebrate the season. Whether you're looking for a festive snack or a hearty meal, this guide will help you navigate the culinary delights of the festival.

The Disney Festival of Holidays is a celebration that brings together the magic of Disney with the warmth and joy of diverse holiday traditions. Whether it's through the universal language of music, the delight of seasonal flavors, or the excitement of cultural festivities, this event is a heartwarming and unforgettable experience. Make sure to visit and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at Disney California Adventure!

But wait, there's even more festive cheer to be had!

Witness the holidays come alive with the brilliant illumination of "it's a small world" Holiday and the Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty's Winter Castle. Be captivated by the mesmerizing array of entertainment, including A Christmas Fantasy Parade, the "Believe… In Holiday Magic" Fireworks, and the World of Color – Season of Light.

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