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“It’s a small world after all, it’s a small world after all.” Love it or hate it, we all know that song. And it is one of the classic rides at both Disney World and Disneyland. But, when the Christmas season rolls around, Disneyland changes the classic ride by adding a holiday overlay to it. And thousands of people line up every Christmas to experience this twist. So, what’s so special about it? And, more importantly, will you love it? Keep reading to find out what all the fuss about It’s a Small World Holiday is.
The Music
In the original version of this iconic attraction, the same song plays throughout the entire ride. And, it has a way of getting stuck in your head for days afterwards.
But, during It’s a Small World Holiday, the original song is tweaked to better fit the holidays. During this time, traditional Christmas music is intertwined with the primary song.
About the time the classic song begins to get annoying, it switches to a festive holiday tune. And the switch in music is so seamless, that you don’t really even notice when it goes back and forth.
This addition of Christmas music makes the ride a much more pleasant experience because you don’t find it playing in your brain on an endless loop for a week afterwards the way you do with the original version.
I love the added holiday music. I find that it is a huge plus to the ride.
The Decorations
Like the music, the holiday decorations that are added during the It’s a Small World Holiday overlay are incorporated into the attraction in such a way that you don’t even remember what the ride was like when they aren’t there.
Some of the decorations are subtle, like a candy cane in a doll’s hand, while others are over-the-top, like the giant Christmas tree in the “white room”. But all of them feel timeless, just like the ride.
And all of the decorations work together to create the perfect blend of celebrating the season with the original message of the attraction.
The Lights
Probably the biggest over-the-top decoration in It’s a Small World Holiday is the light display on the outside facade. The traditionally white facade is transformed by thousands of colorful lights after the sun goes down during the holiday season.
Not only is this dazzling display of lights beautiful, but it also sets the tone for the festive celebration of the ride before you even step into the queue. The lights set the mood for not only the festivities inside the attraction, but also for the rest of your seasons celebrations.
While I definitely suggest riding this during the daytime, you should also come back a second time after dark to experience this holiday overlay in all its glory.
The Christmas Spirit
In all honesty, I love Christmas and find that it doesn’t take much for me to get into the spirit of the holidays. But, the It’s a Small World holiday overlay has a way of getting even the scrooges in the family (like my husband) into the Christmas spirit.
The lights, decorations, and music all work together to create a warm fuzzy feeling deep down in your core that makes you view the world in a more loving and giving way. The ride highlights the best of the season, which has a way of bringing out the best in people.
It also makes you want to spend time with those you love. When you get off of this ride, you just can’t help but be in the festive spirit. This ride is a great way to start off your holiday season or end it on a high note.
Conclusion
It’s a Small World Holiday at Disneyland is a unique way to celebrate the season with your family. This twist on the classic ride is a seamless blend that strengthens the attraction’s peace on Earth message. Kids and adults alike will love this special treat for the holidays.
If you are in southern California during the holiday season, take time to experience it with your family. You won’t regret it!
To book tickets or see operating hours, visit Disneyland’s website.
For more things to do at Disneyland, see my magical must-do’s at Disneyland and California Adventure, Disneyland’s Toontown, Carsland, and the unique quick-service restaurants at Disneyland.
Happy travels!
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