Wellness

Get into the holiday spirit with Disneyland’s magic charm!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

– Andy Williams, Singer

Indeed, Christmas is one of the most festive times of the year. To celebrate the season, Shanghai Disneyland has announced its own Christmas seasonal celebrations to last from November 27, 2017 to January 1, 2018. The theme park introduces Disneytown’s Christmas markets, Christmas swings with Mickey, Meet Santa, and Olaf’s Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Disneyland carnival features Winnie the Pooh and his friends Photo courtesy of Jennifer Kwon

The main focus of the Christmas celebration is the 60-foot tall illuminated Christmas tree, next to the Enchanted Storybook Castle. Each evening, visitors can join Olaf for the “When We’re Together” Tree Lighting Ceremony, where each ornament magically brings the tree to life. Moreover, from Friday to Sunday, guests are greeted by Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Pluto, Duffy, and other Disney characters in their best Christmas outfits for a special photo.

Disneyland’s famous Tron ride Photo courtesy of Hannah Lee

In order to further encourage the Christmas spirit, Christmas songs, garlands, Mickey-shaped wreaths, and traditional red bows are sprinkled across the park. As for shopping, Christmas limited edition items such as stockings, sweaters, and light bulb necklaces are available in the stores along Mickey’s Avenue. “Christmas gift shopping was the best part of my day!” exclaimed Kate Yang (12C). On top of that, the Royal Banquet Hall holds seasonal dishes, such as Christmas log cakes and mulled wine, as well as Disney’s ongoing best-seller: turkey legs! Once you’ve finished your main course, sweet treats are also widely accessible at Remy’s Patisserie, which houses Christmas pastries, fruitcake, cupcakes, and Christmas edition drinks. And, as usual, TRON Realm, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Roaring Rapids, Marvel Universe, and many more venturesome rides offer you more entertainment.

People are having fun with the spinning honey pot ride Photo courtesy of Jennifer Kwon

As a bonus, Disneyland has readily made WeChat ticket sales available. With just your passport ID, date selection, and money ready, you no longer have to wait long lines at the ticket booth. “I personally found WeChat pay very convenient and time-efficient,” said Robin Jeon (12A). As another technological improvement, the new “Shanghai Disney Resort” App welcomes people to check the updated waiting lines available every moment, as well as the upcoming events in Mickey’s Avenue, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.

Moreover, Shanghai Disneyland has also officially announced that Toy Story Land would open on April 26th, 2018 with major reformations under way! Marking the first expansion since the theme park’s opening in June, Shanghai Disneyland’s addition of the seventh themed sector will definitely interest Disney fans. Attractions such as Slinky Dog Spin, Rex’s Racer, and Woody’s Round-Up will be ready to go by next spring. Besides, Shanghai Disney Resort has already opened the world’s first Toy-Story-themed hotel, revealing its concept art from Toy Story.

Christmas lights are all around the Disneyland for the holiday season Photo courtesy of Hannah Lee

Planning for a trip to Shanghai Disneyland before New Years? Visit the link in the first paragraph, and don’t forget to download the smartphone app for quick access to upcoming events!

Featured Image – Disneyland castle brightens up at night Courtesy of Jennifer Kwon