There is a very short list of perfect duos in this world. You have the haunting melancholy of Simon and Garfunkel, the timeless innocence of Calvin and Hobbes, and the crustless wonder of peanut butter and jelly—that’s about it (although one could make the argument for Montana and Rice). After that it is a slippery slope through the likes of Wham and the Smothers Brothers until you find yourself watching reruns of Franklin and Bash with a gallon of ice cream and a pound of regret. It is so much better at the top.
And yet there is something higher, just past Garfunkel’s head and the second star to the right, there is an echo of stirring and it sounds like a mouse. I’m talking about Christmas at the Disneyland Resort, folks, and it is as good as it gets.
Here’s a look at Cars Land:
It starts with the decorations (see above), the entire Disneyland Resort, from hotels to theme parks to the stretch of Downtown Disney that lies between, every corner is lit and wrapped in bells and holly. There are songs for the singing and joy for the sharing. It is Disney magic turned to 11 and it spreads on smiles and scents of peppermint.
There are attractions and rides transformed to fit the season, countless holiday-themed items that feature your favorite Disney characters in full holiday swing, and endless treats of festive food that will leave you stuffed with sweetness and wanting for more.
We were fortunate enough to stay in the Grand Californian Hotel and in addition to the majestic tree in the center of the lobby there was also an amazing giant handmade gingerbread creation—a replica of the very hotel we were standing in. Please note, we were not inside the gingerbread version (I looked).
It is hard to say which part of the Disneyland Resort is more festive during the holidays, there are so many choices; however, the Frozen-themed ice rink in Downtown Disney, the holiday fireworks (followed by snow!), the wonderful World of Color show, and the holiday parade are probably our family favorites.
The point is, if you think Hope and Crosby own the market on holiday magic then you haven’t seen the happiness created by Mickey and Santa—and you really should. You really, really should.
And soon.
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We were guests of Disneyland Resort, which included one night at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa as well as a great dinner at the Storytellers Cafe (our choice) and a private #DisneyHoliays party to experience all of the treats. All opinions are our own.
Photos by Whit and Tricia Honea.
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