The economic situation doesn't seem to be affecting Hong Kong's Disneyland this year, in terms of spirit and decorations. Though the numbers for the park have not exceeded expectations, many still showed up for the opening of Disneyland's "A Sparkling Christmas" event on Nov. 28.

Indeed, the park is generous with its sparkle. Upon entering the park, you will soon notice that every window sill and surface is decked out in green garland with shiny red and blue ball ornaments. The afternoon sun might make the park workers' Mickey Mouse scarves and gloves seem a little overdone, but the atmosphere completely changes once dusk starts to settle in.

If you stroll down Main Street, you will see shops lit with yellow lights and frosted windows, and perhaps also catch some carolers performing for a small crowd. If you want some snacks, the small vending carts feature gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate, along with the usual amusement park fare.

At 5:30, pop rock-ified versions of Classic Christmas songs will become surprisingly infectious, as the "Let It Snow" Parade makes its way full force down Main Street. A variety of popular characters such as the Disney Princesses, Seven Dwarves, and a giant Mickey balloon are some of the familiar faces to spot in the procession. Along with an array of starfish dancers from the Little Mermaid, Woody and Jessie from Toy Story, and the mice from Cinderella, artificial snow puffs into the air, living up to the parade's promise.

But the real delight of "A Sparkling Christmas" is the famous Disney castle, now decked out in thousands of yards of glittering lights. The lights don't come on until the sun is down, so make sure you stay around the park for that.

Even if the scale of the park leaves something to be desired, the overall effect is successful. At the very least, Disneyland will provide beautiful backdrops for your holiday pictures.