The holidays are the busiest time of the year for Disneyland Resort, and this season proved no different. With surging crowds flooding Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and Downtown Disney, Disneyland Resort took an unusual step—limiting guest access to manage the overwhelming demand. Here’s how it all unfolded during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
Restricted Drop-Offs at Disneyland Resort
As lines for security screening grew out of control, Disneyland Resort security decided to block guest drop-offs altogether, directing cars to other locations or paid parking areas—the measure aimed to manage crowd congestion as guests arrived in droves for the holiday festivities.
TikTok user @mandalodien shared a video of the chaos, which was taken near the Disneyland Resort entrance around 10:15 a.m. The footage revealed massive security lines spilling into the usual drop-off zones. “Drop off closed,” the TikTok user wrote.
@mandalodien How long you think the security line is? #disneyland #disneyparks
Disneyland Guests React to Holiday Crowds
For many visitors, the holiday chaos meant longer-than-usual waits just to get through security and into the parks. TikTok user @a_elias1212 shared, “I was there. Took us an hour and a half to get through security and in the park…[Arrived at] 8:30 and didn’t get in the park until 10:00.”
Another guest, @suzaloozinit, echoed: “Yesterday was insane and took 30-35 to get through security..”
Seasoned Disney Parks fans were quick to caution against visiting during the holidays. “The week between Christmas and New Year’s is the absolute worst time to go to Disney,” said @danieltopel8, a former Disney cast member. “…Just stay away.”
“This is not enjoyable,” @gay_amv replied.” Disney shouldn’t let their parks get this crowded.”
How Some Guests Beat the Crowds
While many found the crowd levels overwhelming, others shared tips for navigating Disneyland Resort during its busiest week. Careful planning, early arrivals, and tools like Lightning Lane helped some guests make the most of their day.
“It wasn’t that bad… it was OK and if you are going… try to get the Lightning Lane, it is worth it. We got on the Cars ride 3 times,” said @oli.sando.
“It really wasn’t that bad,” added @bgsu1972. “Had a hopper ticket and LL. Got on everything more than once. Security was fast to get through on the other side of Downtown Disney. Rope dropped too!”
Have you visited Disneyland Resort during the holiday season? In the comments, share your tips for beating the crowds with Disney Fanatic.
