Disneyland In May

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Are you thinking about visiting Disneyland in May? I’ve got all the information you need to make it a great trip! May is a great time to visit because Spring Breaks are over, but the Summer crowds have not yet arrived. There’s lots of fun things taking place in May! In this article I talk about weather, crowd levels, events, what to expect and how to get a discount on your Disney park tickets. Genie Plus is up and running at Disneyland now! Click here for more information on the new system.

Crowds

For planning purposes only. Subject to change

Disneyland in May can be fairly crowded, but it’s not as bad as Spring Break or Summer crowds. Please don’t let crowds scare you away. You can still have an amazing time, even if it’s a little bit crowded. I’ve got lots of info for dealing with high crowd levels here. For lowest May crowds, stick to Tuesday – Friday and avoid weekends. Memorial Day and Grad Nite celebrations bring in higher crowds, so avoid those days(if possible). More info on Grad Nites below.

Weather

Disneyland in May usually has incredible weather. I love visiting this month for this very reason! Crowds may be higher, but the amazing weather makes up for it. You can expect lots of sunshine and pleasant temperatures!

The average high in May is 75 degrees F. The average low is 55 degrees F. I still like to bring a jacket with me for the evenings.

I have a full guide about what to wear to Disneyland in May. You can find it here.

Events

There is a lot going on at Disneyland in May!

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is popular at Disneyland! Each Mother is given a complimentary carnation when they arrive to pin to their shirts. Dining reservations are popular on Mother’s Day, so make sure you book yours at least 60 days in advance. You might spot some famous Disney Mother’s out and about around the parks! The wicked step mother and her daughters from Cinderella often make appearances.

Grad Nites

Disneyland host Grad Nites on select nights in May and June. Local graduating high school seniors come to the parks to celebrate their graduation. Grads need a special event ticket that school groups can purchase.  Some Grad Nite tickets give kids access to just California Adventure. Some give them access to both parks. California Adventure will close early on Grad Nites so that the teens can have the parks all to themselves. So, Disneyland will be come extra crowded in the evening. You can find out more about Grad Nites along with the dates here.

Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite

Calling all Star Wars fans! Get ready for an otherworldly adventure like none other! This separately ticketed after-hours events, will grant Guests of all ages special access to Disneyland Park—including Character experiences, fireworks, photo opportunities, dancing, event-themed menu selections, entertainment—including March of the First Order featuring Captain Phasma, Star Wars-themed merchandise, attractions, commemorative keepsakes, décor and more.

  • Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite at Disneyland Park
  • 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
  • Disneyland Park mix-in begins at 6:00 PM
  • Starting at $134 per person (Ages 3+)
  • Parking fees not included in ticket price

Event Highlights

  • Early Admission
    Enjoy Disneyland Park admission beginning at 6:00 PM, no theme park reservation required.
  • Star Wars Fireworks Spectacular
    Fan of the dark side or the light side? Watch an amazing pyrotechnical spectacle illuminate the skies!
  • Character Experiences
    Enjoy sightings of beloved Star Wars Characters throughout the evening.
  • Galactic Dance Party
    Bust a move at an epic event sure to make Star Wars history!
  • Strike a Pose
    Let Disney PhotoPass photographers capture shots—and incredible memories—against event-themed backdrops.
  • After-Hours Access to Attractions
    Ride some of the park’s most unforgettable Star Wars-themed attractions—including Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (subject to availability, which may vary and is not guaranteed) throughout the event, usually with shorter wait times.
  • Themed Eats
    Gobble goodies that are out of this galaxy—purchase unique dining experiences with sweet and savory menu options at select Disneyland Park locations.
  • Themed Merchandise
    Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase Star Wars-themed items, while supplies last.
  • Commemorative Keepsakes
    Receive a souvenir credential and event guide as well as unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass digital photos taken during the party.
  • Inspired Attire
    Dust off those lightsabers! Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character.

What To Expect

May in Disneyland has lots to offer! Realize that crowds will be higher, but not unmanageable. Arriving early to “rope drop” the day will make a huge difference. Those first two hours after the park opens have the lowest crowds! Take advantage of longer park hours to experience as much as you can!

What to Pack

Having a well packed bag is incredibly helpful anytime you’re on a Disney trip. Don’t get stuck paying a small fortune for something you easily could have brought from home or purchased at a much lower price at home. Here’s a list of Disney park bag essentials that I like to have with me while I’m inside the parks. I also save a ton of money by buying things on Amazon before my trip. Here’s my Disney trip Amazon list.

Discount Disneyland Tickets

Please be aware, that Disney theme parks all require park tickets and reservations. Make sure you have both! Please don’t pay full price for your Disney tickets or hotel. My partners at Get Away Today have the very best deals on tickets and hotels. Their customer service is top-notch and they even have layaway plans. You can find them using the link below or call 1-855-GET-AWAY. Make sure you tell them Melissa from Mix In Some Magic sent you for the best deal! If you book a package with park tickets and a hotel room you can use my code MSM10 to save an extra $10. That’s more churro money, friends!

I have a bunch of hotel reviews that might be helpful for you if you’re still trying to decide where you’d like to stay. 

I’ve got bunches of information on planning a Disneyland trip that will be so helpful for you! Start with my complete guide to visiting Disneyland. It’s a step-by-step guide for planning your vacation that will be helpful. Check out my top 10 Disneyland tips and my guide to when to visit Disneyland to help you pick the best time for your vacation! I’ve also got a post on rope dropping at Disneyland that’s very helpful.

Make sure you check out my downloadable touring plans if you’d like a step-by-step guide to the parks! 

Touring Plans

I have a planning phone call that’s super popular! In this phone call, I can answer all of your Disneyland vacation questions and give you lots of tips and info tailored just to you and your group!

Make sure to check out my podcast for lots of Disney planning information! You can find it on Apple PodcastsSpotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Just search for “Mix In Some Magic” Follow me on Instagram for more Disney tips and lots of Disney tips and fun!