Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch

During Halloween Time at Disneyland, Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree hosts a Halloween Carnival! Fridays-Sundays, from 10:30am to 6pm, it is a mini-carnival "complete with crafts, games, pumpkin carvers, live music and even a sideshow tent where Disney Villains are magically conjured up throughout the day!"

We can all agree that Disneyland is beautiful when dressed up for Christmas, but in my opinion, Halloween decorations aren't too shabby either! Every other theme park goes for the horror nights, and while those are absolutely terrifying (which means they are doing a great job), it is nice to have the option to experience the warm aspect of the holiday. Most of Disneyland has the orange, yellow, and black banners, but the real charm is found at the Big Thunder Ranch Jamboree. The earth tones really bring autumn to southern California. From the flower combinations, banners, and of course, lots of pumpkins, it really is time to get ready for Halloween.

Billy Hill and the Hillbillies, from the legendary Golden Horseshoe, perform at the carnival as well! If you haven't heard them play, you really should make an effort to check them out. These gentlemen are funny, charming, and ridiculously talented.

Our classic friends visit as well! Throughout the day, two or three characters come out for photos and autographs dressed in their own Halloween costumes! While we were there, five characters strolled the area. Mickey and Minnie, super cute Donald as a jack-o-lantern, Pluto, and Chip n' Dale as Keystone Kops (favorites of the day)!

There are a bunch of carnival treats to choose from! We didn't have time to try any out, but we loved the clever idea of the cotton candy made to look like candy corn. If you get the chance to visit, please let us know: What exactly is in a fried apple burrito?

The main attraction is the "Conjure A Villain" tent. A Disney cast member brings about thirty guests into the tent, and with a "spell", conjures a Disney villain - magic! We got lucky and got the fabulous Maleficent, from Sleeping Beauty fame. How fabulous is she?

So if you can't make any of Mickey's Halloween Party nights, the Halloween Carnival is a great way alternative on the weekends. Make sure to let us know how you like it!