You know what they say about genies: once they’re out of the bottle, they’re very difficult to put back in. This week, Disneyland uncorked a major new resort planning service and it will change how guests approach the parks from this point forward. Let’s just say that it had a rocky start, but recovered quickly. And that’s not all the news this week. We’ll also take a look at the return of big entertainment at the resort next year, a coverup at Roger Rabbit, the better late than never return of a classic holiday attraction, the arrival of 2022 logo merchandise… plus construction updates around the parks and much more. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Genie and Lightning Lane Debut at Disneyland

The long-anticipated Genie and Genie+ with Lightning Lane made their debut at the Disneyland Resort this week. While Disney Genie initially rolled out at Walt Disney World nearly a month and a half ago, it took much longer to get the ball rolling at Disneyland. The reception of Genie at Florida was less than magical due to a number of problems, but Disney promised that the system would be improved before its launch in the California parks. So when Disney announced that Genie would be launching a week ago with just a few days’ short notice, we were hopeful but skeptical about the system’s expansion. On Wednesday, December 8, Disney Genie was unleashed at Disneyland and… immediately had a major meltdown.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

While some guests were able to purchase Genie+ on launch day, most were unable to use it as the system crashed before park opening and remained unavailable for most of the day. A long line developed at City Hall for guests demanding refunds, but Disney was unprepared and didn’t have enough staff on hand to meet the demand.

MiceChat’s Facebook group filled with complaints from folks who mentioned that not only did Genie take their money before going down, it also deleted their dining reservations (with some even saying they lost park reservations).

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

After all the problems with the WDW rollout, we were surprised the system wasn’t tested on small groups here, or offered for free for a few days to a limited number of guests to work all the bugs out without the need for refunds.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Genie Banners line the Disneyland Resort tram/walking path to the esplanade.

When we were there on Thursday and Friday to try again and this time the new service was actually up and running. The system works just like it does in Florida. You tell Genie what you are interested in and it lets you know what the current wait times are and if Lightning Lane (think MaxPass) is available.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

For a more in-depth guide to working Disney Genie, take a look at the article below:

Your Essential Guide to Disney Genie: Everything You Need to Know (Disneyland & Walt Disney World)

A new digital Disability Access Service (DAS) is also available for qualifying guests (You can now prequalify online before your trip). DAS is a bit like a virtual queue, allowing disabled guests to wait outside the physical line until it’s their time to ride. Instead of visiting with Guest Relations to schedule rides, the new enhanced DAS lets you do it in the Disneyland app (though Guest Relations is still available to help in person if needed).

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Over at Disney California Adventure, Wait times didn’t appear to be noticeably affected by the addition of Lightning Lane, which is surprising because of how standby times would balloon if too many FastPass returns took place at a single time.  But one thing we did notice was hastily applied stickers covering old FastPass signs.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

While we understand that stickers need to be used until permanent signs are made, it’s a shame that they weren’t able to apply these stickers without leaving creases or bubbles. After all, Genie+ is a paid service, so they should have been able to afford to hire professionals to do these sticker installations. It does make it feel as though the rollout of Genie was rushed.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

This was a long planned family trip on Thursday and Friday. Wait times throughout the resort seemed to be on par with our average experience over the last few months. The major exceptions were the attractions with Holiday overlays, like Haunted Mansion Holiday and It’s a Small World Holiday (especially since it just reopened this past week). But we do suspect that the park capacity was dialed back for the rollout of Genie and we’ll be keeping an eye on queue impacts in the coming weeks.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Over at Web Slingers, the standby queue was in use as was the new Lightning Lane system. The line to enter the Lightning Lane queue looked long, but it moved quickly with an approximately 10 to 15 minute wait time to enter the attraction once you returned.  

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On the Disneyland side, everything looked normal as the Genie+ and Lightning Lane system was finally in use. If anything, some of the attraction wait times were slightly shorter than listed. 

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While some lines were longer around the park, Splash Mountain was a walk-on experience for most of the weekend. The weather had been rainy on Thursday, and on Friday it was clear skies but with cooler temperatures.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
The tree which normally hangs out the barn window at Christmastime is missing this year.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Haunted Mansion Holiday is one of the most popular attractions at this time of year. Waits of over an hour are common. But you can shorten that wait to just 5 to 10 minutes if you are willing to pay for Genie+ and use Lightning Lane access. 

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The longest line that we came across this week was at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The Lightning Lane line had me a little nervous at first. It looked like the system was failing, but quickly found out that the line, while it looked long, was still moving fairly quickly. Of course, when this many guests are being expedited onto the ride from Lightning Lane, it slows the standby line to a crawl.  

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I personally used Genie on Thursday and Friday. The program is a little confusing at first, and it did result in my being on the phone all day. When using Lightning Lane, getting onto the attractions was fairly easy and I waited no more than 10 or so minutes in most of the Lightning Lanes. Mobile Ordering food was the same, but the program told me what my best options were for food wait times. So I avoided things with longer waits and used the suggestions. This may be one big reason why waits seemed moderate to me on Thursday and Friday.  

Here was one particularly confusing thing for me: The Lightning Lane reservations were mixed in with the rest of the Genie suggestions and made it difficult to find and redeem those reservations. I would personally like to see more organization in the system. It would be nice to see my Upcoming Plans in a different color to contrast between what is suggested and what is already planned. 

A member of my party uses the DAS (Disability Access Services) system, which is now part of the Genie program as well. For folks who use the DAS system, you no longer have to visit a Guest Relations Cast Member to set up a return time for your desired attractions. Once you have your DAS registration complete (either via the virtual system or after visiting a Guest Relations CM), you are able to make your attraction selection through the Disneyland app. You check in the same way you would with Lightning Lane, but how you access the attraction is dependant on the disability.

Roger Rabbit…Err, Jessica Rabbit’s Cartoon Spin?

The Toontown attraction “Roger Rabbit’s Cartoon Spin,” is the latest Disneyland attraction to be updated for modern times. Jessica Rabbit has been removed from the trunk of the Weasel’s car in the first major scene of the attraction and has now taken on a new leading role as a private investigator determined to stop the Toon Patrol weasels. Jessica’s slinky dress has now been exchanged for a fedora and trench coat. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

No longer tied up in the trunk of the car, Jessica Rabbit now stands awkwardly behind the leader of the Toon Patrol as he holds open the trunk that is now filled with large drums of the notoriously destructive “Dip”. The premise of the attraction’s change is that the weasels are running through Toontown dumping Dip on the streets and Jessica is determined to stop this crime spree. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

There are some changes in the queue as well. One of the more obvious is the addition of a fedora to Jessica Rabbit’s pacing shadow on her dressing room window. Another change in the queue is the audio dialogue that plays throughout. It sets the stage for what you are about to experience in the attraction. So if you don’t pay attention to this audio, much of the attraction won’t make sense as it has little to do with the storyline of the movie. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Making the story a bit sillier, is the Anti-Weasel Equipment that is sitting on a crate behind Jessica Rabbit as she holds the large mallet that she has just hit a weasel over the head with (“this is going to hurt you a lot more than it’s going to hurt me”). 

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Our pals, the Disneyland Insiders, filmed the ride on Wednesday with the brand new additions: 

Tell us what you think. Is this a welcome change to this old attraction, or does it deserve the full “Dip” treatment from the weasels, with a whole new theme needed? Are today’s kids out of touch with this movie from the 80s? Or, is this a classic that should have been left untouched?

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

It’s a Small World Holiday Re-opens After Major Damage

“it’s a small world” Holiday was originally scheduled to open for the season with the rest of the Christmas entertainment last month, but due to flood damage to some very old components, the re-opening was delayed until last Monday.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

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The exterior lighting and projections continued to awe guests even though the attraction itself was still closed. 

 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

After weeks of emergency refurbishment, the attraction is ready for guests once again. It reopened exactly a week ago today.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

I’ve got to say that I was delighted to see the holiday version of this attraction again after such a long absence.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Ariel and her sisters can be heard singing “Jingle Shells” as you pass through.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The bright lights and colors really make this attraction come to life.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

While enjoying the attraction, you couldn’t tell there was ever any damage or flooding throughout the ride. In the end, I loved seeing the oversized postcards as you exit the show building. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The popularity of this attraction could not be overstated. While wait times got as low as 20 minutes, there were also times when waits swelled to well over an hour. Using the Lightning Lane option, I was on the attraction within 5 minutes after returning at my designated return time. (I won’t be able to afford to do Genie+ often, but it sure was fast for this special family trip)

DCA: Paradise Bay Refilling

There has been an incredible amount of work happening at Paradise Bay in Disney California Adventure. The entire bay was drained so crews could complete a major refurbishment of the World of Color equipment after sitting idol during the park shutdowns. It appears that the refurbishment is moving along well and the bay is now starting to refill. There have not been any dates released for the return of the World of Color, except for a general timeframe of 2022. We’ll keep you up to date when more information becomes available. Just seeing water in the bay is exciting to me!

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
No, that’s not rain run-off that you see in the bay! They are actually refilling the lagoon!

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

You can see the blue dye in the bay. It must have just been added before my trip because there were a few areas that the dye hadn’t reached yet. When we were there on Friday, there was a noticeable increase in the water depth than the day before.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

While it was chilly and breezy at the top of the Pixar Pal-a-Round, we got a great view of the overall progress. On both days, we observed Cast Members working on the platforms checking equipment.

Crowds Around the Resort

With the reservation system in place, the crowds don’t feel as out of control as they were before park shutdowns. The biggest challenge has been getting food within a reasonable amount of time. The lack of sufficient standby lines at the walk-up counters has made wait times very long and annoying for guests who don’t want to mobile order. Meals need to be planned out in advance unless you’re willing to eat during the off-peak dining times. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

By far, the longest wait time has been at the standby queue for “Rise of the Resistance.” I remember when “Radiator Springs Racers” had queue times of 240 minutes in the early years. We have not seen wait times like that since the parks reopened, but “Rise” has been one of the highest wait times in the resort with waits up to 120 minutes at times, but that fluctuates, greatly… often averaging just 90 minutes.

In other parts of the resort, wait times of 20 minutes to 45 minutes seems to have been the average at many attractions. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

New Orleans Square has always been one of those pinch points, especially when you are trying to navigate between the queue of Pirates and the stroller parking along the Rivers of America.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla  

Now that a parade has returned, the parade routes are packed with guests hoping to get that perfect view of this classic Disneyland spectacle… and Santa of course! Fairly shortly after the parade, the crowding spreads out to the rest of the park and navigating walkways is no longer as big of a challenge. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

AND… let me just share a little magic with you. No, it’s not news. It’s just something that makes me feel good. Wintertime Enchantment at Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street is not to be missed. The Castle is lit up and snow falls on guests as they watch lights, projections, and listen to music. During this heartwarming show, the area just in front of the castle is pretty crowded as is all of Main Street. But this is one time when the crowds don’t take away from the wonder of this beautiful spectacle for me. Kids are amazed by the projections and snow, while couples take the moment to gaze into each other’s eyes as if it is just the two of them in this magical moment. 

2022 Merchandise Available Now!

To help welcome the upcoming new year, Disney has released a number of 2022-dated items at the Disneyland Resort. We found merchandise from this collection at World of Disney in Downtown Disney. MiceChat’s merchandise maven, Natalie Kipper, fills us in on what’s new…

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
The 2022 merchandise currently shares a small section in World of Disney with the remaining 2021 items.

This acid wash shirt has the simplest design of the whole collection, featuring only attractions with no accompanying characters (Tinker Bell notwithstanding).

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The adult hoodie incorporates screen-printed art, embroidery, and even a patch into its design.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Mickey Mouse’s smiling face is embroidered on the chest.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
On the back, Mickey Mouse and “2022” are surrounded by fireworks in a screen-printed graphic. “Disneyland” is embroidered down one of the sleeves.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
This patch is on a corner of the Hoodie’s pocket.

As much detail as the adult hoodie has, it is outdone by the different touches found on the girl’s zippered hoodie.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Minnie and Daisy, along with “2022,” are on the front.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
A large dated graphic that features the whole gang is included on the back.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
“Disneyland” is printed down one of the sleeves.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
The topper is the colorful, character-laden lining in the hood.

The boy’s zippered hoodie is tie-dyed to create an ombré fade. It has a similar graphic to that on the girl’s style on the back. However, Daisy and Minnie are absent on this one.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The colors on this kid’s T-shirt would match well with the zippered hoodie seen above.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Yes, even baby clothes are included in this collection in the form of this onesie.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

This picture frame has figures of Mickey and Minnie at its base, joined by Sleeping Beauty Castle and the date “2022.” At the top, it says “Disneyland Resort.”

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

This reusable silicone straw comes with a “D” logo straw charm attached and is packaged with a straw brush, all contained within a little portable pod.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

These toothpick holders make use of the same image used on the girl’s hoodie. The slight blue tint at the base is a nice touch.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The 2022 calendar has actually been on shelves for a while. But we felt it was worth mentioning again now that it is joined by other related products.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

In other merchandise news…

This Happy New Year 2022 shirt is not from the 2022-dated collection but it is a festive offering commemorating a moment in time. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

We also noticed that Disneyland’s Emporium stocked the two shirts from Disneyland’s after-hours holiday event, Merriest Nites, even though it was during the day on a non-party night… they must have a lot of inventory left to get rid of.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Thanks Natalie! 

Big Entertainment Returns for 2022

Just this past week, we shared the news that many entertainment productions would be returning to the Disneyland Resort starting in 2022. While not many solid dates were given, it’s great to hear that more entertainment is returning to the parks. 

Here’s what’s Returning…

  • Main Street Electrical Parade

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

  • Disneyland Forever fireworks

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

  • World of Color
World of Color, 2010.
World of Color, 2010. ©Disney
  • Fantasmic!
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Fantasmic Dragon breathing fire
  • Gospel Celebration will be moving from DCA to Disneyland’s Fantasyland Theater in February in honor of Black History Month on select days

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

  • Tale of the Lion King will also be finding a new home in the Fantasyland Theater beginning next Spring (It was offered in the summer of 2019 in DCA’s Paradise Park).
     

    , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

    While we are eagerly awaiting the return of these shows that create so much magic for Disneyland’s guests, there is still no word on the return of any shows in the Royal Theatre (storytelling shows or swing dancing nights), Mickey and the Magical Map, Frozen, or the short-lived Magic Happens parade. While we think there’s a good shot that Magic Happens and storytelling will return, the sets for Magical Map were being removed over the weekend and Frozen’s cast was told that there show was canceled.  

    , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

And then there’s the big Disneyland nighttime parade that just disappeared and we haven’t heard much about since… What’s happening with Paint The Night? We’d really love to see that return to DCA while Electrical Parade heads back for yet another run at Disneyland.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Take a look at Nathan’s article from this past week with more information about what’s returning… and what hasn’t been announced yet:

Big Disneyland Entertainment Returns for 2022!

Current Projects Around the Resort:

While one project is wrapping up, others are continuing to make progress around the resort. Let’s take a look at what is currently under construction and what’s coming up in the near future!

ToonTown Entry Walkway

One of the projects we’ve been keeping a close eye on has been the walkway into Toontown. It’s been boarded up on one side or the other for several months. We are happy to report that this major pinch point for foot traffic has finally been opened up. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

The section along the path closest to “it’s a small world” is a disabled access ramp. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

It has been quite some time since we have had the magical side view of Small World. This is one of my favorite vantage points to take photos from (more of that in a future article). 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Tarzan’s Treehouse: (September 1st-TBA). Still no return date on Tarzan’s Treehouse. Looks like it will extend into next year.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage: (July 12th-Winter 2022). This attraction appears to be making some good progress. The vibrant colors are returning to the lagoon.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway:

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

This attraction has come a long way, but we’ll soon lose our view as all of ToonTown will close in March of 2022 in preparation for the transformation of the land and the opening of the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

In the photo below, you can see the steel support structure for the facade that will cover the building that does not exist.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Here’s what’s planned for ToonTown:  

Disneyland’s ToonTown Closing in 2022 for Enhancements

World of Color:

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

While the Bay is currently filling with water (as I mentioned above), the scaffolding is still up and it appears that they are just about ready to install the projectors onto their new concrete footings. It was previously a steel structure supporting the huge boxes. Hopefully the concrete will last much longer. 

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Upcoming Refurbishments:

  • Haunted Mansion: (January 10th-20th) holiday overlay removal.  They’ve got this down to just 10 days. 
  • Splash Mountain: (January 10th-TBD). This is expected to be just a 6 week routine refurbishment. The Princess and the Frog overlay is still coming, but not ready to be installed yet. In fact, the Disneyland project will run behind the Walt Disney World version, which is expected to come first.  
  • Mickey’s Toontown: (March 2022-TBD in 2023). This is more of a retheme than a refurbishment. 

Downtown Disney:

The Downtown Disney District is as busy as ever (no park reservation required). It’s a free bit of Christmas magic at Disney.  

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

There are bands performing on the Downtown Disney Stage, adjacent to the Star Wars Trading Post. There are two new photo opportunities as well, from the new series ” Star Wars, The Book of Boba Fett.”

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

Photos from Around the Parks:

One of my favorite things to do at the end of my articles is to share some of my recent photos with y’all. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoy taking them.

At the end of our evening on Thursday, we stopped and enjoyed some 4 part harmony from the Dapper Dans as they were singing from the steps of the Main Street Depot. Christmas at Disneyland would not be as magical without this group. Wherever they are performing, you’ll see a crowd gathered to watch them sing.

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
I have missed this reflection! I am so glad to see water going back into Paradise Bay! It makes for a truly magical Golden Hour.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Grizzly Peak viewed from the Pixar Pal-A-Round, on a cool rainy day.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Matterhorn Mountain is a beautiful sight from up high, through the trees. The rain cleared the air and helped make this beautiful photo.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Hustle and Bustle on the main drag in Radiator Springs. Just as the sun goes down, the Christmas lights are turning on, along with the neon, adding to the magic of this land. 
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Disneyland Entrance in the rain. I love this look. Don’t be fooled by the lack of people in this photo. Disneyland was still very busy on Thursday afternoon.
, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
The Haunted Mansion pet cemetery gets a few holiday enhancements this time of year

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla , Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla

As we wrap up this week’s update, I want to take the time to thank Natalie Kipper for her help with the merchandise section of this update. She is truly our merchandise expert and I appreciate her help. I also wish to thank the rest of our MiceChat crew members who help with the weekly updates. These updates are no small feat, and I couldn’t do it without the help of my MiceChat family. Seeing as this will be my last update before Christmas, I want to wish you ALL a very happy holidays, whatever it is that you are celebrating this holiday season, and a very happy and prosperous New Year! Stay safe, and stay healthy!


(MiceChat has worked with Get Away Today to provide you with the best theme park travel deals and we may make a small commission on any sales made through our links)

Merry and Bright Theme Park Ticket and Travel Deals

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday HooplaOur travel partners at Get Away Today are here to help you make new family memories with discounted theme park tickets and hotels. Extra days, big savings, travel packages and more. Snap up those deals to Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line and other family travel destinations while you still can, with your MiceChat partners at

Get Away Today- HERE

 


The World-Famous MiceChat Gumball Rally Returns!

, Disneyland Update: Genie’s Dramatic Debut, Entertainment Excitement, and Holiday Hoopla
Event Information

After a long hiatus, it’s time for the big return of the MiceChat Gumball Rally at Disneyland. The event is a competition to see who can ride the most attractions at Disneyland in a single day. Guests compete in small groups of 2 to 4 members and spend the day doing what Disney fans love most… riding the attractions!

So, say goodby to those nice people on the dock… because the Gumball Rally is rolling your way on February 12th.  

Book your theme park reservations NOW and then sign up for the Rally! We are also offering discounted theme park admission and discounted hotel rooms this year via our partners at Get Away Today.  Don’t miss out! 

Gumball Rally Event information * HERE *


Let’s Hear From You

That certainly was a lot to cover from the parks this week. Between the launch of Disney Genie and getting used to working with that system on top of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s made for an interesting week. What are your thoughts on the implementation of Genie and Genie+? Are you surprised by the outage on the first day? Is it a service you’ll use? Any guesses on return dates to the major entertainment coming in 2022? We always love hearing from you in the comments. 

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Mike Kindrich
Mike is a Southern California Native and a professional photographer who loves everything Disney and combining two of his favorite past times to share with the world. He is often found in the Disney parks with his family enjoying time together and finding new perspectives to photograph while looking out for new things to report on in the parks.