The 'Halloween Tree' shines at Disneyland during Halloweentime

The Halloween Tree is one of our favorite things to see while we are at Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort.

It's crazy to think that no matter how many times we visit Disneyland Resort we are constantly learning new facts and insider tips that we never knew before. I guess it's all part of the magic of Disney, that keeps things new and exciting, and believing in all the wonderful things that one's imagination can dream.

We have admired this beautiful orange glowing tree in the heart of Frontierland, across from The Shooting Gallery for years. Not knowing it had a name. Not knowing it had a story. But then everything inside of Disneyland has a story, a history.

The Story Behind 'The Halloween Tree' at Disneyland

To see it during the day it is beautiful. You can get a close-up of the details. There are so many painted pumpkins all with unique faces. It is has it's own personality and it's own spirit - but it fits right in perfectly in Frontierland at Disneyland Park.

But don't only look at it during the daytime. Oh no! You must also pay it a visit at night where it takes on a new persona. As the sun goes down, The Halloween Tree lights up the night with a gorgeous glow that will set your Halloween spirit on fire! It is adorned with hundreds of lights in yellow, orange and red. It will really take your breath away with the colors that represent fall in the most magical way.

If you have never heard the story behind the Halloween Tree, let us share what we've learned from the Disney Parks Blog:

Bradbury, a lifetime Disney fan and the author of classic American novels such as “Fahrenheit 451,” met Walt Disney in 1964. In the years that followed, Bradbury helped develop many attractions at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, most notably Spaceship Earth at Epcot. He also penned the screenplays for two Disney films, “Something Wicked This Way Comes” (1983) and “The Wonderful Ice Cream Suit” (1999).

Bradbury’s novel “The Halloween Tree” tells the story of a group of trick-or-treaters who learn about the origins of Halloween while on an adventure to find their missing friend. Bradbury dreamed of having a Halloween Tree at Disneyland, and on the 35th anniversary of the novel, his dream was brought to life. “I belong here in Disneyland, ever since I came here 50 years ago. I’m glad I’m going to be a permanent part of the spirit of Halloween at Disneyland,” the author said at the tree’s dedication. Bradbury would visit the tree before he passed away in 2012.

There is a plaque at the base of the tree commemorating the night it was dedicated and it says:

“On the night of Halloween 2007, this stately oak officially became ‘The Halloween Tree,’ realizing famed author Ray Bradbury’s dream of having his symbol for the holiday become a part of Disneyland.”

We are happy that this iconic Oak is a nod to literature, and a nod to Ray Bradbury. It is whimsical and filled with the Halloween spirit. We make it a point to see it and take pictures of it every year at Halloween Time. Just another family tradition for us at the Disney Parks.

Have you ever seen the Halloween Tree? 

Did you know the story behind this Halloween Time icon?

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort: 10 Family Favorites #HalloweenTime

Our family loves Halloween and Disney does an amazing job of bringing out the ghoul in all of us. From Sept 12 through October 31, 2014 you and your family can experience the ghosts and goblins in a way that is sure to delight even the youngest fan. Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is truly one of the most magical times of the year!

Here are 10 of our family's favorite things to see and do during Halloween Time:

1. Mickey Pumpkin on Main Street 

One of the first things you see when you enter Disneyland Park is the giant orange pumpkin at the start of Main Street. It's a great photo opportunity for your family and it really puts everyone in the Halloween spirit! This pumpkin looks awesome during the day and really glows at night.

2. The Halloween Tree

There's something about this orange glowing tree of beauty that puts a smile on our face every year. This famous tree lights up Frontierland, and was inspired by Ray Bradbury's book, The Halloween Tree . It's got jack-o-lantern ornaments hanging from it and it is dressed with yellow and orange lights. A beautiful representation of fall and it's rich colors!

3. Characters Dressed in Halloween Costumes

It's so special when the characters dress up! Seeing Mickey, Minnie, Goofy Donald and more, dressed in their Halloween costumes is so fun for the kids. Get one-of-a-kind photos with your favorite characters in their Halloween best! You can spend quality time with them over at the Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch.

4. Orange Mickey Balloons

Mickey balloons have never looked cuter colored bright orange with spiderwebs to finish off the look just perfect for young Halloween lovers! Don't forget if your child's balloon pops you can bring it to one of the cast members (holding a balloon bouquet) and they will replace it.

5. The Incredible Pumpkin Carvers

If you have not seen the Incredible Pumpkin Carvers you are missing out. These talented artists decorate and carve Disney-themed pumpkins for all to enjoy. Get ideas on what to do with your own pumpkins at home, or just marvel at the artistry. Either way, you will be in awe of what can be done with a pumpkin!

6. Sweet Treats and Eats

The park is full of tricks and treats. We prefer the treats, naturally. Whether you like candy apples, cookies or cupcakes (or all three, like us) you will not be disappointed at Disneyland resort's wide variety of sweets. Of course you can still get the two most popular treats during Halloween Time - churros and dole whips too!

7. Haunted Mansion Holiday

When the pumpkin King a.k.a. Jack Skellington takes over the Haunted Mansion you can bet it's something to spook-tack-ular to miss. See Jack, Sally, Zero and Oogie Boogie in this whimsical rendition of Haunted Mansion Holiday. Disney Sisters Tip: There's plenty of time to catch this attraction, it continues throughout the month of December!

8. Halloween Time Merchandise

From trick-or-treat bags to apparel you won't want to go home empty-handed when you see the Halloween merchandise. Whether you want something to decorate your house for Halloween, or a mug to drink hot cocoa out of you can't go wrong when you choose one of these festive items. Make sure to grab a popcorn bucket while your there. Our family has been collecting them for years!

9. Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy

For the crowd who loves the thrills and chills of Halloween like our teenagers, Space Mountain gets a ghastly makeover! This is the most scary attraction in the park during Halloween Time, and thrilling for the entire family. Hold on tight and enjoy the ride that's out of this galaxy!

10. Pumpkin Spice Latte 

 There's nothing like walking down Main Street U.S.A. on a cool fall day, with a hot Starbucks cup filled with Pumpkin Spice Latte. It's so fun to have Starbucks served at Market House Café. They sure know how to make the perfect Halloween drink to get us in the mood.

Families and friends can celebrate Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort from Sept. 12 through Oct. 31, 2014. To purchase your tickets for the Disneyland Resort - Go To:  https://disneyland.disney.go.com/tickets/.

           Which are your family's fall favorites?

Disclosure: We were not compensated for this post, we were given tickets to Disneyland for our family to enjoy Halloween Time and to help facilitate this review. Opinions on this blog are 100% magical and 100% those of the Disney Sisters only.