“it’s a small world” Holiday

by | Aug 8, 2024 | Disneyland, Disneyland Attractions, Disneyland Park, Fantasyland

Sure, you might’ve experienced “it’s a small world” before – but when the holiday season arrives at Disneyland Park, you simply can’t skip the most festive version of this attraction. From November through January, the ride transforms into “it’s a small world” Holiday, featuring thousands of glittering lights, festive decorations, and even some fresh new tunes.

“it’s a small world” Fast Facts

  • Location: Fantasyland
  • Height Requirement: None
  • Attraction Length: About 15 minutes
  • Lightning Lane Multi Pass: Yes
  • Ride Type: Boat ride
  • Early Theme Park Entry Eligible: No
  • Extended Evening Hours Eligible: N/A
  • Ride Switch Available: No

Queue

The queue for “it’s a small world” Holiday is entirely outdoors. While there are no hidden details or much to see in the way of theming, it offers a great opportunity to watch the Disneyland Railroad’s trains pass by. Plus, every 15 minutes, the festively bedecked 30-foot-tall clock tower at the front of the attraction opens and displays a parade of dolls.

When the “it’s a small world” Holiday overlay is in place, the queue is particularly cool once the sun sets. At night, you’ll get an up-close look at all of the sparkling, shining holiday lights covering the attraction’s exterior.

Accessibility 

Guests must transfer from wheelchairs and ECVs to ride; however, a wheelchair access vehicle is available. Handheld captioning and audio description are also available if needed.

On-Ride Photo

There is no on-ride photo for this attraction.

Is “it’s a small world” Holiday Kid-Friendly?

Slow-moving and filled with plenty to see along its cruise, “it’s a small world” is an attraction the whole family can enjoy. It’s also incredibly kid-friendly and suits little ones of all ages.

The holiday overlay makes for an extra-special sailing experience. Not only is the exterior of the attraction decorated for the season, but the interior is also updated with holiday-inspired touches (and yes, that includes holiday songs!). Kids of all ages will love seeing wreaths, gifts, and other seasonal tweaks added throughout the ride’s scenes.

Sure, your tweens and teens might get bored on this doll-filled boat ride, but it’s a perfect pick for anyone who loves iconic Disney attractions and characters, and it offers a chance to chill out in air conditioning on hot days, too. With a relatively fast-moving line, it’s always a popular choice among guests.

Best For: Guests of all ages – including infants and toddlers – who love classic Disney attractions.

Will “it’s a small world” Holiday Cause Motion Sickness?

“it’s a small world” shouldn’t cause motion sickness for most guests. Do keep in mind, however, that boats can bump into one another if the loading dock gets a little backed up.

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Authored by
Heather Adams

Heather Adams, Disneyland Expert and Mom | A lifelong Disneyland enthusiast who's familiar with every square inch of the Anaheim theme parks, Heather has spent over 30 years becoming an expert in all things Disney. A Disney Adult turned Disney Mom, she's now quickly becoming a pro at taking her little one to the theme parks and familiarizing herself with navigating crowds with diaper bags, strollers, and plenty of baby gear. If you're planning a Disney vacation with kids under age 3, she's got all of the advice you need.