Updated April 12, 2026
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Here we go!
Before we browse calendars, please know that the park is truly crowded year round now. “Off season” is a thing of the past, as Disney implemented tiered pricing and theme park reservations to balance out crowds. And, it’s working. The old crowd calendars with red, yellow and green days don’t mean anything anymore. Anyone still using them in 2026 is providing you with a false sense of security with these color charts. Disregard them. You just need to know the days to avoid and I’ve listed them below.
Here’s your best approach – Expect Disneyland to be busy. Rather than hoping to go during a slow time, I encourage you to do a little research so that you can enjoy your visit, regardless of the crowds:
- Start with this post for a basic overview of the parks with many links that will educate you on so many important parts of planning a Disneyland trip. Having some essential tools in place will make your visit a successful one, regardless of the crowds you encounter.
- Use this post to know how to start each day at each park, regardless of which days you visit. These strategies will help you get on every attraction in 20 minutes or less. It’s entirely possible! I test my plans once a month and edit them as needed to ensure you have the best strategy to avoid the crowds.
2026 Dates to Avoid if Possible
**Look for additional dates added to this list not yet announced including Dapper Day, etc. I’ll update as info is shared.
- January: 1-7 (Holidays at Disneyland wrap up); 16-19 (MLK); 20-24 (NAMM conference); 29-31 (Half Marathon); 22, 25, and 27 (Sweethearts Nite)
- February: 1 (Half Marathon); 13-16 (President’s Day weekend); 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, and 17 (Sweethearts Nite); 28 (News)
- March: 3 and 5 (70 Years of Favorites); 26 (Savannah Bananas); 22 (Bluey); 27-31 (SoCal Spring Break)
- April: 1-5 (SoCal Spring Break & Easter); 12, 14, and 16 (Disney Channel Nite); 18 and 19 (Dapper Day); 28 and 30 (Star Wars Nite)
- May: 4 & 6 (Star Wars Nites); 8, 12, 13, 15, 17, 20, 21, 28, 29 and 31 (Grad Nites); 22-25 (Memorial Day weekend); 10 (Mother’s Day)
- June: 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12 (Grad Nites); 16 and 18 (Pride Nite)
- July: 2 (Soarin’ Across America opening); 3-6 (4th of July weekend)
- August: 2 (CHOC Walk); 14-16 (D23 Expo); 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30 (OBB)
- September: 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15 (OBB); 4-7 (Labor Day weekend); 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29 (OBB)
- October: 1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31 (OBB); 9-12 (Columbus Day weekend)
- November: 11 (Veterans); 18 (start of Holidays) 21-29 (Dapper Day & Thanksgiving)
- December: 5-6 (Candelight); 18-31 (Holidays & NYE)
2026 Seasons
Lunar New Year at DCA – 1.23.2026 – 2.22.2026
Celebrate Gospel – February 20, 21, 27 and 28, 2026
Food & Wine Festival at DCA – 3.6.2026 – 4.27.2026
Mother’s Day – May 10, 2026
Disneyland’s 70th – ends August 9, 2026
Halloween Time – 8.21.2026 – 10.31.2026
Oogie Boogie Bash – varied dates Aug-Oct 2026
Thanksgiving – November 26, 2026
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort – 11.18.2026 –
Hotels
Looking for a place to stay? Check out these posts that include links for discounts:
- Disneyland Hotel review – 50+ photos
- Grand Californian Hotel review – 40+ photos
- Off-site Hotels
- Anaheim Westin review
- Hidden Gem Hotels
How Do I Predict Crowds?
I visit the Disneyland Resort once a week on average, sometimes more. I make notes from each visit regarding crowds and then compile that info when I create my calendars.
In addition to that, I use local school info, Disneyland’s Magic Key calendars, and previous years’ info. My experience in the parks is my most effective tool, of course.
Tips on Choosing a Date
- Weekdays are typically less crowded. If you have to schedule during the peak months, go during the week.
- Holidays, California Spring Break (the most frequently scheduled of the SoCal spring breaks), Summer Break, Halloween and Christmas through New Years are most crowded.
- If sunny days are important to you, know that May and June can often be gloomy. September is usually our warmest month.
- With park reservations in place, the crowds are pretty even these days. But, there are no guarantees. Go prepared.
My Best Advice
I recommend booking with Get Away Today for Disneyland, Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line. They offer the best discounts and service in the industry.
Find them here. Need specific, detailed assistance booking your trip? Email me at casey@disneylanddaily.com and I’ll connect you with someone who can help.