May at Disneyland: Weather and Event Guide (2024)

The most exciting thing happening at the Disneyland Resort in May is their annual preparation for opening new attractions. Typically those open at the end of the month, but you may find them in "soft opening" mode all month long, giving you a chance to try them out before they're officially open.

At the end of May is Memorial Day weekend, the first long weekend of the summer and one of the year's busiest times to go.

Disneyland Crowds in May

Is Disneyland crowded in May? That depends on what part of the month you're talking about. The websiteisitpacked.compredicts light crowds on weekdays for the first two weeks of May. Crowds are manageable Monday through Thursday for the rest of the month. The last Monday — which is Memorial Day — will be very crowded. Use IsItPacked'scrowd forecast calendarfor a day-by-day prediction.

Disneyland Weather in May

Anaheim weather can fluctuate a lot during the month but these averages can help you get a rough idea of what the weather will be like.

By May, rains usually end, and temperatures are moderate. The right weather conditions can pull foggy marine layers far inland as Anaheim.Locals call it "May gray" — and it can stay cool and overcast for much of the day.

• Average High Temperature: 69 F (21 C)
• Average Low Temperature: 56 F (14 C)
• Rain: 0 inches
• Daylight:You will have almost 14 hours of daylight to enjoy the parks

Anaheim's record low temperature was 30 F (-1 C), and its record high was 108 F (42 C).

If you're trying to decide what month to go to Disneyland and want more information about the weather year round, use the Disneyland weather and climate guide.

May Closures at Disneyland

You may find rides closed forrefurbishmentsearly in the month, but as crowds increase toward the end of the month, fewer attractions are closedlong term.

For the most part, rides will shut down only for routine maintenance. Check touringplans.com for a list of rides which are expected to be closed for refurbishment.

Disneyland's May Hours

Hours atCalifornia Adventureare often shorter than at Disneyland, and both parks will be open longer on holiday weekends like Memorial Day

• Monday through Thursday:Open 10 to 16 hours per day
• Friday through Sunday:Open 14 to 16 hours per day

If you are checking no more than six weeks aheadof time, use the Disneyland website to get the official Disneyland hours by day. More than six weeks out, you can use this guide to find out more about hours in general.

What to Pack

The best way to decide what to wear at Disneyland in May is tocheck the weather forecasta few days ahead, but some guidelines may help you make a preliminary packing list.

Midday, Disneyland often feels hotter than the forecast numbers might lead you to expect. It cools off fast after dark and if you're going to watch Fantasmic! or World of Color up close, you'll be thankful for a water repellent jacket.

Layers work best, clothing-wise. Make the innermost layer one that you'd be comfortable in if it's a little hotter than the forecast high. And at the risk of sounding like your meddling Auntie, comfy shoes are always the best choice.

Before you start packing your bags, take a look at the tested and proven tips in thegirls' guide to packing for Disneyland.

May Events at Disneyland

Disneyland opens most of their new attractions in May usually near the end of the month. For some of the bigger ones, they may offer pre-opening event tickets.

Disney hostsitsannual Grad Night high school graduation events in May. The after-hours party happens in California Adventure. Expect bigger crowds all day long on the dates they're held.

It's not an official Disneyland event, butBats Day in the Fun Parkis a weekend-long, informal gathering of folks who enjoy the Goth subculture. It's usually held early in the month and draws a few thousand people, enough that you'll notice them.

May Travel Tips

• You'll find it hard to get significant ticket discounts at Disneyland in May.Use the Disneyland discounts guideto see a few ways to save.
• Choose your dates carefully, be flexible, and you may be able to get a good hotel deal. Toward the end of the month, availability plummets and prices rise to their summer levels. To get some ideas that may help with the cost, usethisguideto getting the best hotel rates at Disneyland.