It may be mid-October, but Disneyland Resort has already started transforming one of its most iconic attractions for the Most Wonderful Time of the Year at the Happiest Place on Earth. Let's take a look at what's changed on the exterior of “it's a small world” in Fantasyland at Disneyland Park.
Holiday Transformation Begins at “it's a small world”
Each year, “it's a small world” comes alive for the holiday season with thousands of colorful Christmas lights, international holiday-themed outfits on the doll animatronics, a modified soundtrack featuring holiday classics interwoven with the ride's iconic theme song, and other festive touches.
“it's a small world” will close for its annual holiday overlay on October 30 and reopen on November 13, 2026. But even as Southern California Disney Park guests enjoy the peak of the Halloween and fall season, Disneyland Resort is already preparing for “it's a small world” Holiday.
On October 13, WDWNT reported that Christmas lights had already appeared on the exterior of the iconic Fantasyland attraction. The outlet shared a photo on social media:
The string lights blend into most of the ride's white exterior, but are most obvious draped over the gold details around the facade. Though Disney cast members have already installed the lights on “it's a small world,” the park won't turn them on until the overlay opens on November 13.
After “it's a small world” closes on October 30, Disneyland Resort will also install a bright red Santa Claus hat on the spinning clock face on the Fantasyland ride facade. Guests are unlikely to see any more traces of the Christmas attraction overlay for a few more weeks.
Have you ever been on “it's a small world” Holiday at Disneyland Park? In the comments, share your thoughts on the attraction overlay with Disney Fanatic!
