As winter approaches, families planning a visit to Disneyland in early 2026 should be cautious about their travel plans. The park is preparing for its annual refurbishment season, and this year it appears that many beloved attractions will be impacted, particularly just as attendance is expected to rise due to a new ticket promotion.
One of the most significant changes is the scheduled closure of the popular Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Set to go offline for routine maintenance starting January 20, 2026, this attraction has consistently been hailed as one of the resort’s highlights. Although Disney has yet to announce an official reopening date, insiders indicate that the ride may remain closed until shortly before the bustling President’s Day weekend in mid-February, potentially disappointing many fans eager to experience it.
The disruption isn’t confined to Galaxy’s Edge. Disneyland will see the Haunted Mansion close its doors on January 12, as it undergoes a transformation to remove its seasonal “Nightmare Before Christmas” overlay. This beloved fixture in New Orleans Square is expected to be shuttered for approximately two weeks.
Meanwhile, across the way at Disney California Adventure, guests will find two more attractions—Incredicoaster and the Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind—out of service, as both will enter refurbishment starting January 5. This area is likely to resemble a construction zone, further detracting from the park’s lively atmosphere.
Dining experiences at the parks are also affected, with the popular Lamplight Lounge set to close for enhancements on January 12, greatly limiting dining options for visitors. Additionally, the Grizzly River Run water ride will be out of commission as it enters its annual winter hibernation on January 5.
The current situation poses a challenge for families looking to enjoy a magical winter escape, especially given that Disney has recently introduced a significant ticket promotion, offering prices as low as $68 a day. This deal is meant to encourage visits during a typically slower season, but with several major attractions closed for maintenance, visitors may find their experiences curtailed.
Disney has not yet commented on these closures, leaving many wondering how best to plan their visits amid the impending changes.
