I have been to Disney Land in Anaheim, California several times, but the last time was just two weeks ago when it was decorated for Christmas. I took my three teenaged daughters and we had the most amazing time. The Christmas decorations were absolutely incredible, with a huge Christmas tree at Main Street. This tree had all sorts of beautiful ornaments and lights and set up the day. As we walked around and rode the rides, we enjoyed this trip far more than any other. Even the castle had snow on it!

The most lovely and decorated theme area was New Orleans square. There were garlands and lights everywhere and the Haunted Mansion was decorated in a Nightmare Before Christmas theme with Jack Skelington out front. We couldn’t believe it when we heard that the decorations are actually put up overnight when the park is closed. One night and they completely change the park into a winter wonderland. Even the It’s a Small World boat ride was changed with Christmas decorations everywhere.

For my children and I, our absolutely favorite part of the park is the Pirates of the Carribean ride. Every since the Pirates of the Carribean movies came out, the ride now has a theme with Jack Sparrow throughout. This ride is appropriate for children and adults with just enough excitement to satisfy both and not terrify small children.

As usual, the parade and dancing water display were outstanding, but what made the evening complete was when a gentle snowfall fell down from the sky, over the crowds. There wasn’t a tremendous amount of snow, but the lights around the Main Street area made the snow look fabulous as it drifted down from the snow machines. Even though my children are teenagers, they found this finish to the day a small thrill.

Crowds and long lines are a part of Disney Land, but spending the day in such a joyful theme park definitely brings a family closer together. My kids told me that going to Disney Land every Christmas is now our new family tradition!