Comments on: 2026 Disneyland Planning Guide

By: Jordan B

Jordan B — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 03:37:58 +0000

My sister and I will be visiting in March for the 70th anniversary party and the opening of Food & Wine Fest. It will be my second trip to DL and her first (we are WDW people), along with our first ticketed event and her first ever Food & Wine (I’ve done WDW Food & Wine). To say we are excited is an understatement!! I thought there could be a chance you all might there that weekend to get all the info for an updated guide for this year’s fest. It would be so fun to run into you! I’ve followed your blog since 2012 (or earlier…) and appreciate the exhaustive research you do, fantastic photography, and funny humor.

One blog post idea: my first trip to DL, I had just one day and wanted to “cross off the list” rides that were identical or nearly identical to their WDW counterparts. This seemed like the exact type of list you would make, but I couldn’t find it on your blog. I ended up doing my own research, piece-mealing together info from other blogs, ride reviews/videos, etc. but do think you would do a fantastic write up! Thinking about the day this way really helped me maximize my time so I could focus on unique DL experiences vs. spending time on rides I had, essentially, been on before.

Thanks again for all you do,
Jordan

By: Tom Bricker

Tom Bricker — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 20:09:49 +0000

In reply to Steve.

“Is it right to assume California Adventure Park on the Oogie Boogie days would be quieter earlier in the day (just like Disneyworld in Orlando when MNSSHP is on?).”

Yes, this is correct.

The second part–about Disneyland being quieter in the evening for entertainment–is definitely not the case, though.

By: Steve

Steve — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 18:22:51 +0000

Love reading your in depth analysis Tom, thanks for everything you do! I plan everything to the finest detail and drive my wife crazy…he he
QQ – Is it right to assume California Adventure Park on the Oogie Boogie days would be quieter earlier in the day (just like Disneyworld in Orlando when MNSSHP is on?). We were thinking to do this and then park hop to Disneyland for the evening entertainment if it’s usually quieter. Thanks for the insight.

By: Melissa

Melissa — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 20:34:02 +0000

fireworks question. Is there any time in April that fireworks go every night? we have been to DL twice in the last 2 years, April and March, and have yet been able to see the fireworks. that is my main disappointment. Or would may be netter for a chance to see fireworks. TIA

By: Matt

Matt — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 05:36:46 +0000

Hi Tom!
I am bringing my family to DL for fall break this year. Oct5-9 and we will be staying at Disneys Grand Californian. I have a few questions, as this will most likely be a once in a lifetime trip for all 5 of us.
I know that DL has more characters roaming the parks than the FL parks offer. Are autographs and pics available with “roamers?” Or is it just snap a pic as they walk by?
I know CA weather is typically warm by day, cool by night. Will the pools remain open all year?
You mention high crowds beginning Columbus Day and beyond- which would occur right after we leave. Based on your research and historical patterns, do you see our week as heavy crowds, moderate?

Thanks in advance for all of your help!

By: Cyndie

Cyndie — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:34:38 +0000

Awesome article! Even though we’re locals, we still get a lot of great tips for DL (and California) from you guys, thanks. Love the adorable Megatron “sub” with the bears…that’s the exact same expression I have in the park when they run out of my favorite handmade treat at Candy Palace 🙂