Exploring All The Unofficial Theme Days At Disneyland

Allison Walter
Updated September 23, 2021 613 votes 162 voters
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One of the most remarkable things about Disney is the incredible enthusiasm the company sparks in its loyal fans. There is a special theme day at Disney for everyone from goths to Lolita fashionistas. But all of the unofficial theme days at Disneyland have one thing in common—each is organized by groups of like-minded, passionate people, who come together to make new friends and celebrate the Happiest Place on Earth.

You may think you know everything there is to know about Disneyland, but do you know every Disney park theme day? Some have been around for years, but there are new fan-organized events popping up every season. So whether you are into classic cars, pinup fashion, or steampunk technology, there is a Disney theme day that can enhance your park going experience. And if you're a real fan, be sure to check out our list of Disneyland Easter Eggs only a super fan could spot.

  • 1
    62 VOTES

    Dapper Day

     

    A post shared by DAPPER DAY Events (@dapperday) on

    When the Imagineers first planned Disneyland back in the 1950s, the concept artists drew pictures of families enjoying the theme park dressed in their Sunday best. They envisioned men wearing suits, women wearing skirts, and even the kids wearing dress shoes. 

    In 2011, designer Justin Jorgensen created Dapper Day, with the hopes of bringing the original vision of Disney to life. Ever since, guests come to Disneyland dressed in mid-20th century semi-formal attire once a year. 

    62 votes
  • 2
    37 VOTES

    Pinup Parade In The Park

     

    A post shared by Tara Alexander (@redpinupdoll) on

    For years now, retro fashion fans have taken over the park annually in Disney character inspired pinup costumes (primarily in the style of the 1940s to the '60s). The event is organized by Burbank-based Pinup Girl Boutique. 

    37 votes
  • 3
    44 VOTES

    Pajama Jam

     

    A post shared by Misty (@misty.in.disney) on

    Pajama Jam may just be the most comfortable theme park experience ever. It's exactly what it sounds like—an excuse to wear your PJs to Disney. The group encourages all types of pajamas, from onesies to kigu's. Keep an eye out for details on the next Pajama Jam on One Big Disney Family's page. 

    44 votes
  • 4
    40 VOTES

    Bats Day

     

    A post shared by M. Ziliak (@m.ziliak) on

    Bats Day has been the special day at Disney when the goth community gets together and hangs out at the Happiest Place On Earth. Nightmare Before Christmas, The Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean are all favorites of this crew. 

    Unfortunately, the tradition came to an end in 2018 (unless someone brings it back from the dead.) According to Inside The Magic, the 20th annual Bats Day in the Fun Park will be the last, due to budget issues.  

    40 votes
  • 5
    44 VOTES

    Steam Day

     

    A post shared by Lori Tergerson (@lost.things.cosplay) on

    Steam Day is all about steampunk, a science fiction-inspired genre of fashion that marries Victorian-era design elements with fantastical, old-timey gadgets and accoutrements. Pocket watches, goggles and gear-powered accessories take over Disney on this unofficial day. The event takes place in May each year.

    44 votes
  • 6
    20 VOTES

    GLOW Disneyland

     

    A post shared by Erica (@60earsofmagic) on

    Not to be confused with RAVERDAY, this unofficial theme day isn't about EDM, but purely lighting up Disney with glow in the dark outfits, glow sticks, and light up Mickey ears.

    The group aims to make the park even brighter and make new friends. You just have to turn off your glow lights before getting on any dark rides. The GLOW attendees gather each year in the fall. 

    20 votes