Since we were kids, we've always been taught this mindset that Disneyland is "the happiest place on Earth," and being the little kids we were, we believed it! Our parents take us through the park, buying adorable Mickey Mouse ears to adorn our heads, or the latest princess and superhero outfits to date. And if that weren't enough, the mouthwatering food that we receive is just the cherry on top of a great day in childhood memories.
I remember when I was younger, my parents would spoil my brothers and me with "extravagant" trips to Disneyland Parks all over the world, hence it is safe to say, I am an avid Disney fan. I have been to every Disneyland you can think of--Anaheim, Orlando, Tokyo, Paris, and Hong Kong! Needless to say, each better than the last with their own cultural and thematic twist.
Living in Los Angeles, it's great to have an annual pass because we can visit the park almost any time we desire! After class? Sure thing! After dinner to watch the fireworks? Yes, please! The whole day? Why the heck not?! Every time I step into that park, I seem to forget worries and just think about having a good time, and of course, eating lots and lots of great food. Plus, the themes that happen every season? Halloween and Christmas? Talk about some lively spirits! The food and decorations are all tailored to the specific season.
Come Halloween time almost everything is pumpkin flavored, and there's a huge Mickey-shaped pumpkin that greats you from the park. Not to mention, the incredible Mickey-shaped pumpkin beignets from the Mint Julep Bar!
Then comes Christmas, which is probably the best thing ever in Disneyland. The weather is not too hot, but it's also not too cold, but it's perfect for you to dress up comfortably for a Californian winter! The colossal Christmas tree is dashing, and all the ornaments as well as Christmas-themed pastries and cookies are to-die-for.
During the day we're reminded of all the Disney fairytale classics we loved as a child, and reminiscing about them leaves us nothing but a smile. From "Peter Pan" to "Finding Nemo," Disney never fails to bring out your inner child.
At night the entire place lights up a Christmas tree that stays up all year long, with beautiful lights in every corner. And if we thought it couldn't get better than that, there are firework shows that happen several times starting from 9 p.m. If you're lucky, perhaps you'll witness a marriage proposal (or two), because who wouldn't want to be proposed to in Disneyland? After all, Holly Madison closed the entire park to celebrate her wedding festivities there!
Sure, the long wait times for rides are a drag, but if you go with the right people, you could be cruising your way to your seat in no time! So, is Disneyland the happiest place on Earth? That statement may be pushing it a little, but it sure is a happy place.