Disneyland Update: Construction Tricks and Halloween Treats

🎃 Halloween Time has crept into the Disneyland Resort, and your fearless MiceChat crew was there to witness the wickedly early arrival of the spooky season. But beware, foolish mortals, that’s not all! We’ve got sinister construction updates, devilish news bites, and eerie encounters with things that go bump in the night. Ready to join the dark side? Let’s get this villainous party started… 😈

Be sure to read all the way to the bottom because we have some STUNNING park photography to share with you.  It’s a Halloween treat. 

Now Screaming: Halloween Time

Yes, we hear you, it’s summer, and the parks are hot and sweaty. But that hasn’t stopped Disneyland from delivering its earliest-ever Halloween time. Pumpkins are on Main Street, the Haunted Mansion is in holiday mode, Oogie Boogie is hosting his big party, and Halloween treats and merchandise are everywhere. Let’s take a look at this year’s festivities, which are very much like the last few years. 

Disneyland Pumpkin Fun

Halloween Time at Disneyland is all about not-so-scary pumpkins, orange decor, and cute details. It’s the less scary of the two parks for the season. While the look of Halloween hasn’t changed at Disneyland for well over a decade, the character costumes, food, and merchandise do get updated from year to year. 

Walt and Mickey and ringed by pumpkins again.

But the pumpkin display in the central hub, representing each of the lands in the park, is getting a bit out of date. Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge isn’t represented, the Tarzan Treehouse is no more, and by next year there will be no Critter Country (more on that below).  Time to scare up some new pumpkins or come up with a fun new display idea for the hub. 

Haunted Mansion Holiday remains the big hit of the season, but due to construction in the queue, it requires a virtual queue this year.  

Sadly, Halloween also brought the end of the Magic Happens Parade (for now). In its place is a cute little Halloween Cavalcade: 

And Halloween Screams fireworks returns on weekends (with projections-only on most weeknights)

I was there are opening night and share this video of the Halloween Screams with Fireworks. This is one of my all-time favorite Disney fireworks shows: 

Disney California Adventure Halloween

If Disneyland is orange and silly, California Adventure is purple and a bit scary (but in a very good way).  Purple bunting, bats, and the headless horseman rule Buena Vista Street. But Cars Land offers a whimsical alternative to the darker theme at the park’s entry. 

But perhaps our favorite Halloween offering at the Disneyland Resort is Cars Land’s Honking Halloween. The whimsy, creativity, and attention to detail here has us wishing that the Imagineers would turn their seasonal attention to Pixar Pier and San Fransokyo as well. 

The Cars characters even get into the act in their amazing Halloween costumes. 

At Tow Mater’s, the Junkyard has become an auto parts graveyard! Spooky…

If the spider car in front of Flo’s Diner looks familiar, it’s because it was a Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride vehicle before it was converted into a Cars Land Halloween prop. Simply charming. 

Paradise Garden is once again the Plaza de la Familia with a Dia del los Muertos look inspired by the movie Coco. 

In the evening, Disney performs an amazing switcharoo… Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout changes its story to “Monsters After Dark.” It’s a darker and scarier version of the ride that we look forward to every year. 

And, at night, twinkly lights and moody ambiance pushes DCA Halloween over the top… especially if you have a ticket to the extra cost after-hours event, Oogie Boogie Bash. 

Oogie Boogie Bash Villain Reveals

Speaking of Oogie’s big party… A few weeks ago, Disney teased that two villains would join this year’s Immersive Treat Trails at Oogie Boogie Bash. Most fans guessed them to be Dr. Doofenshmirtz from “Phineas and Ferb” and Hades from “Hercules.” We can now confirm that they were correct. Dr. Doofenshmirtz will be appearing as a face character at this year’s Halloween party, much to the delight of the show’s cult following.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks)

Hades from Hercules will also appear. We’re still trying to decide whether we like him as a face character or prefer the older version used in the parks. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks)

Which do you like better, the face character above or the previous theme park masked character below? 

We also know that Agatha will be back this year, sporting a new, very professional, and somewhat odd new look. We get that Disney wants to promote her upcoming series, “Agatha All Along,” but we prefer her more Halloween-appropriate witch costume from last year, and so do the fans. The comment section was rife with jabs at her outfit and phony-looking wig. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disneyland (@disneyland)

Downtown Disney

Halloween carries out into Downtown Disney as well (particularly the stores), with decor throughout the shopping district and window displays in the shops. 

Decorations that had previously been seen on the tram route are now in Downtown Disney. 

And if you want to know what’s in the stores, take a look at our comprehensive guide. I really like the items inspired by the Silly Symphony Skeleton Dance as well as the Hocus Pocus collection. 

UPDATED! Disneyland Halloween 2024 Merchandise Puts a Spell… On Our Wallets!

Constructionland

It feels like we’ve already covered a whole update and we haven’t even made our way to the construction in the resort. While there’s nothing major at Disney California Adventure at the moment, Disneyland has two big projects and a number of refurbishments. But by early next year, a number of bigger projects may break ground (See: Disneyland Resort Expansions). 

Avengers Campus Expansion Prep

After years and years of waiting for the new Avengers ride in Avengers Campus to finally start construction, we’ve received word that work will begin early next year. That means that some clearing needs to begin backstage behind the Avengers HQ building… which currently also houses the maintenance barn for the Red Car Trolley. As a result, Red Car Trolly cast were notified today that their attraction will cease operation early next year. 

That’s not really news, we’ve previously shared that the Red Car would need to be rerouted if it was to continue operation in the park. What we don’t know is if Disney has committed to saving the Red Cars or not. 

While few guests ever ride the Red Cars, they are an important kinetic element to the park and provide color and movement. But they are also a traffic impediment and a moderate expense for the low capacity. We’ll keep our eyes on this one and let you know what we hear. We’d also like to hear from you. Should the Trolley be saved?

Keep track of projects at the Disneyland Resort in our project tracker: 

Disneyland Resort Project & Rumor Tracker

Haunted Mansion Expansion

The Haunted Mansion queue and garden re-make are starting to take shape. We can now see the perimeter of the new queue-garden. 

The walls below will contain the mansion queue on the right and the expanded Tiana’s Palace seating area on the right. 

Here’s what the two sides of that wall will end up looking like: 

Meanwhile, the gift shop at the exit of the Mansion is finally going vertical. We’re a long way off from this one being done…

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Bayou Country

We’re almost there… Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially opens November 15th, but you can expect a long period of testing and previews well before that date. We caught the ride in motion during our live video on Friday (you can catch that video further below). 

Many of the logs had weights in the front. They are probably testing the splash dynamics of heavy front loaded logs.  

At the side of the salt mine, light posts are already going in. And there’s a lot of them… for good reason… shade sails will be strung between the lights to make queuing more comfortable for guests. That’s a very welcome development. 

Critter (Bayou) Country

While Critter Country remains closed, the pathway to Galaxy’s Edge has reopened, and Winnie the Pooh and the Pooh Corner shop and candy kitchen are set to reopen on August 29th.

The churro and lemonade cart in Critter Country reopened on August 30, with pretzels added to the lineup.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disney Eats (@disneyeats)

Critter Country is in the process of becoming “Bayou Country” as Tiana’s approaches opening. We still aren’t sure how The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh fits in with the Bayou theme, but it tells you a lot about how Disneyland has given up on Pooh. We wouldn’t be surprised at all if the Pooh ride and shop are eventually rethemed. 

Meanwhile, the Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree complex is preparing for opening as well.
The restrooms under the Hungry Bear Restaurant have reopened. Tables and chairs are back in place, a new mural has been painted, signs are in place, and construction walls and scrims are down. We hope to hear some good news soon and try that new BBQ menu! 

Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree menu items include dishes inspired by regional bbq favorites, including: 

• New Smoked Barbecue Combo Platter: A selection of house-smoked meats, served with baked beans, house slaw, white bread, and pickles with a choice of two of the following: Pork Spareribs, Pulled Pork, Sausage Link, or Beef Brisket (Also available on Mobile Order)
• New Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwich: Tangy BBQ sauce, house slaw, bread and butter, and pickles served with beer-battered fries  
• New Smoked Beef Brisket Sandwich with tangy BBQ sauce, pickled red onions, and pickled jalapeños served with beer-battered fries 
• New Smoked Angus Beef Burger and Pulled Pork with American cheese, golden aïoli, pickled red onions, bread and butter pickles, and crispy onions served with beer-battered fries 

For those who just can’t eat unless it’s a burger… burgers and chicken tenders will remain on the menu. And if you’ve never had a corn rib, you’re missing out! 

• New Corn Ribs Plate: Chile-lime aioli, parmesan, crispy onions, cilantro, and scallions with house slaw and beer-battered fries (Plant-based) 
• New Loaded Fries topped with smoked pulled pork, queso sauce, pickled red onions, and pickled jalapeños, cilantro, and scallions 
• Classic Cheeseburger served with beer-battered fries
• Chicken Tenders Plate served with house slaw and beer-battered fries

Disneyland Hotel Security Gate

 In Downtown Disney, a number of new restaurants and shops under construction. But one project is popping up rapidly on the far west side of the district next to the Disneyland Hotel. The old security gate here was closed when the a permenant gate was opened behind the new Din Tai Fung. Now there’s a tent-like structure going up in the old security location. 

The new gate is likely for Disneyland Hotel guests only as they wouldn’t want to siphon guests away from those expensive rent locations being built just steps away by the new Downtown Disney stage and security gates. 

And the fountain has been removed from between Splitsville and the old Tortilla Jo’s.  

Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar

Hang on to your hats and glasses; there’s an explosion of refurbishments on the calendar! 

Currently Under Refurbishment:

• Splash Mountain – Conversion to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: (May 31st, 2023-November 15th, 2024)
• The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln – adding “Walt Disney — A Magical Life” show to theater (April 16th, 2024-2025)
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: (May 1st-TBA)
• The Briar Patch – Remodel to Ray’s Berets: (May 1st-TBA)
• Pooh Corner – Remodel to add Critter Club: (May 1st-TBA)
• Hungry Bear Restaurant – Remodel to Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree: (July 8th-TBA)
• Critter Country Fruit Cart: (July 8th-TBA)
• Disneyland Railroad: (August 5th-TBA)
• Space Mountain: (August 5th-September 5th)

• Animation Academy: (August 5th-29th)
• Disneyland Monorail: (August 12th-TBA)

Upcoming Refurbishments:

• Indiana Jones Adventure: (September 9th-13th)
• World of Color – One (September 9th-TBA)
• Jungle Cruise: (September 16th-October 3rd)
• it’s a small world – Holiday install: (September 16th-November 15th; January 21st-Spring 2025)
• Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island: (September 16th-18th)
• Sailing Ship Columbia: (September 23rd-26th)

This & That

Just a little bit more news, and then we’ll share some STUNNING photos from the park you won’t want to miss! 

MiceChat Live From Halloween Time

Suzanne, Scott Solo, and myself took a walk through the parks on the first day of Halloween. We think you’ll enjoy this stroll. We even catch Tiana’s Bayou Adventure testing! And we start our adventure on a ride…

Earl’s Seasonal Sandwiches

In addition to signature favorites, Downtown Disney’s Earl of Sandwich pop-up (on the west side next to the shuttered ESPN Zone building) is offering a couple of seasonal options:

• Carolina Pulled Pork Crunch – Pulled pork, tangy Carolina BBQ, dill pickles, crunchy potato sticks
• Montagu – Roasted beef, turkey, swiss, cheddar, lettuce, Roma tomatoes, Earls mustard sauce
• Caprese – Fresh mozzarella, Roma tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar Italian – salami, capicola, ham, pepperoni, mozzarella, Roma tomatoes, italian seasoning, italian dressing

New in Batuu

Starting August 23rd, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge will also debut seasonal offerings:

• Endorian Roasted Chicken Salad: Marinated chicken with mixed greens, roasted seasonal vegetables, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and green curry ranch
• Surabat Valley Harvest Board: Torched sourdough bread with aji verde-infused pork spread, and spicy salsa criolla
• Jogan Seed Oi-Oi Puff: Green cream puff, green crunch, and ube creme

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disney Eats (@disneyeats)

Magic Key Glee

Last week, we shared that a Villains tumbler materialized at Disneyland on August 20, but that isn’t the only Magic Key perk to look forward to during Halloween. Here are some other offerings to take advantage of:

• Villains Trading Cards – Pick up 4 collectible Villains trading cards (new card each week) available Monday through Thursday, August 26 through September 19 at Disneyana (DL) and Kingswell Shop (DCA)

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disneyland Magic Key (@disneylandmagickey)

• Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot – Featuring Yzma from “Emperor’s New Groove” (complimentary digital download) available noon to 9pm daily, August 19 through September 14 near the Guest Relations kiosk across from Matterhorn Bobsleds.
• Villains Stainless Steel Tumbler – Available at select Disneyland Resort quick-service locations starting August 20. 
• Oogie Boogie Bash – Photo Op/Candy/Commemorative Patch featuring Hades from “Hercules” available at Magic Key destination under Silly Symphony Swings + OBB-themed Magic Key t-shirt and Magic Key pin Available at select retail locations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disneyland Magic Key (@disneylandmagickey)

• Halloween Themed Merchandise – Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Patch Pin available starting August 23 

Bengal Barbecue Beverage

From August 23 through November 13, a new Thai Tea Slushy with honey boba and cold foam will be available at Bengal Barbecue in Adventureland. Looking forward to trying this one! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Disney Eats (@disneyeats)

MiceShots

You’re in for a treat. We have lots of beautiful photos from the Disneyland Resort to share…

We’ll start with the Magic Happens parade, which glowed away on Thursday. We expect it to return next year during Disneyland’s 70’s anniversary celebration. 

Of course, there’s Halloween decorations galore throughout the resort…

In addition to the gorgeous photos from Mike, we are joined again today by Sara Anne, who always blows us away with her stunning visuals…

The roses in Redwood Creek have returned for Ooogie Boogie’s Bash…

Ray Bradbury, the famed author of the amazing book The Halloween Tree, was a personal friend of Walt Disney and had a deep connection to Disneyland. His love for Halloween was honored in 2007 with the dedication of a Halloween Tree in Frontierland, a tribute to his beloved novel. At the ceremony, Bradbury declared, “I belong here in Disneyland,” celebrating his permanent place in the park and the spirit of Halloween. The tree has returned every Halloween since.  

AND… WAIT FOR IT… We ALSO have incredible Adam Kent photos today. Consider this a Halloween treat from all of us at MiceChat…

Follow MiceChat on social: MiceChat Facebook Page, MiceChat Facebook Group, MiceChat Instagram, MiceChat Threads, MiceChat X, MiceChat YouTube

Let’s Hear From You!

What a packed Disneyland Update! 🎃 From the early arrival of Halloween Time to the latest construction updates and some sinister new villains at Oogie Boogie Bash, there’s a lot to unwrap. How do you feel about Halloween starting in August? Excited to try the new BBQ offerings in Bayou Country? What do you think the future holds for Winnie the Pooh? And did any of our Halloween videos give you chills? And should the Red Car Trolley be saved? Let us know which tricks and treats at Disneyland caught your eye this season!

Related Reading Not To Miss

Don’t miss our INCREDIBLE look at the untold stories of Knott’s Ghost Town Alive. Not only will you learn some fun details about the characters and stories, but our vintage-style photos using an old film camera put this article in our list of MiceChat stories to bookmark for the ages…

The Untold Stories of Knott’s Ghost Town Alive – Calico Revealed!

Don’t miss our guide to Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. With two full months still ahead, you’ll want to track the eats, treats, merchandise, and attractions not to miss…

UPDATED! Disneyland Halloween Time Arrives: All the Not-So-Scary Details

And for all of our latest Halloween coverage for theme parks everywhere, check out our dedicated landing page for the season…

Halloween Time

And finally, you won’t want to miss our world-famous Gumball Rally coming up in February. it’s a race through Disney California Adventure to see who can ride the most attractions in the quickest time. But this year there’s a thrilling twist. As you ride the attractions, you’ll also need to solve a murder mystery! Who did it? Can you solve the mystery? 

Gumball Rally

It takes a village… My sincere thanks to Mike Kindrich, Christy Weinberg, Samantha Davis Friedman, Suzane Lee, Adam Kent and Sarah Anne for their help with today’s Update. We have a lot of exciting things coming up, check back daily! 🎃