Years ago, when Disneyland closed early more often, they would occasionally rent the park out for private parties. One such party was a “Gay Night” and we attended, but we didn’t really love it: stores were closed, restaurants closed, no parade, no characters, no fireworks. It felt like less than the full Disneyland experience. So when that event was canceled in 1998, Gay Day Anaheim. was created.  It was based the happening on our big sister event in Orlando, Gay Day, which attracts over 100,000 gays and lesbians from around the world each June.

Like the Orlando event, Gay Days Anaheim is a “mix in,” meaning gay people and straight people mingle together; the park is open to the general public so that our chosen families are mixing with the families of the other guests. Also like Orlando’s Gay Day, we wear RED shirts to identify one another and show our numbers.

The first Gay Days Anaheim in 1998 attracted about 2,500 people. Today the event attracts over 30,000 guests to the Disneyland Resort each year! Pretty amazing. What was once a small one-day gathering has become a full weekend event with parties, gatherings, a massive group photo, a scavenger hunt, private meals, and much more! 

There is a really packed schedule that starts  on
Friday, September 22, 2023 when the Welcome Center opens at noon at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel, and then finishes on Sunday 24th with drag superstar Varla Jeah Merman performing Stand By Your Drag 

For the full schedule, and further information inc discounted hotel rates click HERE