Full Breakdown
Disneyland's Major Refurbishment Season in Early 2026
12/11/2025, 6:26:04 AM
Upcoming Closures and Maintenance
Disneyland is preparing for its annual refurbishment season, which will significantly impact visitor experiences in early 2026. Notably, the highly acclaimed attraction, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, will close for routine maintenance starting January 20, 2026. This closure follows the busy Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend and is expected to last several weeks, with speculation that it may reopen just before the Presidents' Day weekend rush, which begins on February 13, 2026. The ride has faced technical issues since its debut, and this refurbishment aims to enhance its performance and reliability.
In addition to the Star Wars attraction, the Haunted Mansion will also undergo maintenance, closing on January 12, 2026, to remove its seasonal "Nightmare Before Christmas" overlay. This closure typically lasts about two weeks, meaning the Haunted Mansion is likely to reopen around the end of January 2026. Other attractions at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, including the Incredicoaster, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, and Grizzly River Run, will also be temporarily closed for routine maintenance starting January 5, 2026.
Historical Context of Refurbishment Season
Winter has historically been known as refurbishment season at Disneyland, a trend that has persisted for decades. This period allows Disney to perform necessary maintenance during a time when attendance is typically lower. However, recent years have seen an increase in visitor numbers during this season, partly due to aggressive ticket promotions, such as the current offer that reduces Park Hopper prices to as low as $68 per day. This promotion is expected to attract larger crowds, potentially complicating the impact of the ride closures.
Implications for Visitors
The simultaneous closures of major attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and the Haunted Mansion are likely to affect visitor attendance and experience. Many guests may choose to alter their travel plans to avoid visiting during this downtime. The closures could lead to a decrease in overall park attendance, similar to the impact seen during the closure of Radiator Springs Racers in the previous fall.
Official Statements & Responses
Disneyland has not yet provided specific details regarding the duration or scope of the refurbishments for the affected attractions. However, the park's operational calendar indicates these closures are planned to ensure that attractions are in optimal condition for peak attendance periods.
Criticism & Opposition
Some critics argue that maintaining a winter refurbishment season is outdated, given the increasing popularity of Disneyland during this time. They suggest that Disney should consider scheduling maintenance during the summer months when attendance is traditionally lower. This perspective highlights the tension between operational needs and guest expectations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our expectation is that the downtime of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will have a similar impact on Disneyland attendance as did the Radiator Springs Racers closure this past fall, which caused many guests to avoid the park as a result.” — Disney Tourist Blog
- “However, it’s also a gut-punch for guests planning a visit in late January through the first half of February 2026.” — Disney Tourist Blog
- “This closure is to remove The Nightmare Before Christmas seasonal overlay and restore the traditional attraction until the next Halloween celebration.” — Mickey Visit
As Disneyland approaches this busy refurbishment season, visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly, keeping in mind the temporary closures of some of the park's most beloved attractions.
