In December we celebrated both Walt Disney’s birth (December 5, 1901) and his passing (December 15, 1966). Little did he know that when he opened Disneyland Park on July 17, 1955, that this, together with his film studios, was only the beginning of a legacy we still celebrate today.
So why visit Disneyland in 2019? The answer seems easy. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the long-awaited expansion to Disneyland Park, is finally opening, but I recommend you go for different reasons, even though I am a huge fan of the galaxy far, far away.
Disneyland is so much more than Star Wars. It is home to classic rides, such as Snow White’s Adventures, The Storybook Land Canal Boats, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, The Disneyland Story Presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, and Indiana Jones Adventures, all attractions only available at Disneyland Park.
Even the Pirates of the Caribbean ride is not a complete replica of the one guests can experience in Orlando. And where else can you get inside the castle, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, that is, without paying for a meal?
And while It’s a Small World and the Haunted Mansion are also welcoming guests at the Magic Kingdom in Florida, nothing compares to the fabulous Christmas overlay both attractions receive for Halloween and Christmas.
But there is more. In 2019 Disney celebrates 90 years of the two heroes who Walt catapulted to fame: Mickey and Minnie. Get ready for Get Your Ears On, a celebration of Mickey and Minnie that brings new entertainment, decor, limited-time specialty food, and, of course, limited-edition merchandise to the park.
A new projection laser show with new music and fireworks, celebrating Mickey Mouse, debuts January 18th. And with the return of Mickey’s Soundsational Parade on January 25th, be on the lookout for Mickey’s brand-new float.
From January 22nd through February 18th, the park will celebrate Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on the occasion of Valentine’s month. Enjoy festive Valentine’s decor, including a new Mickey Mouse flower portrait on Main Street, U.SA. Find your own Valentine in a scavenger hunt around the park. A commemorative map and stickers are available for purchase at select merchandise locations, and guests can search for hidden valentines that Minnie has left behind for Mickey.
As for Star Wars Land: Galaxy’s Edge, no opening date has been announced. All we know is that it is opening Summer 2019. And if you still want more entertainment, Disney’s California Adventure is right across the street!
Where to Stay
Consider Disneyland Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond property within walking distance of both parks and adjacent to Downtown Disney. Disneyland Hotel pays homage to Walt Disney and Disneyland Park; it’s fun to visit for all Disney aficionados.
Prices for a standard room start at $418 plus tax. Disneyland Hotel offers daily early admission to one of the two theme parks.
For all there is to see and do at Disneyland, check out The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland by Seth Kubersky with Bob Sehlinger, Len Testa, and Guy Selga Jr. All Disneyland fans should also check out The Disneyland Story: The Unofficial Guide to the Evolution of Walt Disney’s Dream by Sam Gennawey.
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