With the holidays on the horizon, Walt Disney World has announced this year’s festive experiences for each park, all included with regular theme park admission. Here’s a look at what awaits guests of all ages this season.
Enchantment Awaits at Magic Kingdom Park
Magic Kingdom Park ignites the holiday spirit starting November 12, with vibrant seasonal decorations gracing Main Street, U.S.A., and holiday-themed treats throughout the park. As part of the festivities, guests can experience:
- “Frozen Holiday Surprise” at Cinderella Castle, where Olaf and friends transform the iconic castle into a glistening palace. This heartwarming show brings the joy of “Frozen” to life, enchanting families with a crystalized display that lights up the evening.
- Jingle Cruise – The Jungle Cruise gets a seasonal twist with holiday-themed jokes and decorations, offering guests a jolly adventure starting November 2.
Celebrate Diverse Holiday Traditions at EPCOT
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays runs from November 29 through December 30, celebrating global traditions with vibrant decor, entertainment, and culinary delights.
- Storytellers from Around the World share holiday legends, offering guests a unique glimpse into global celebrations across EPCOT’s World Showcase.
- JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season brings Gospel, R&B, and festive music to life, filling the air with holiday cheer.
- Candlelight Processional – With a mass choir, orchestra, and celebrity narrators like Nico Santos, Ralph Macchio, and Titus Burgess, this tradition at America Gardens Theatre offers a stirring tribute to the story of Christmas.
- Holiday Kitchens serve up festive cuisine inspired by holiday customs worldwide, while the Living with the Land – Glimmering Greenhouses showcases the season’s spirit through dazzling lights and insights into holiday foods.
Wild Holiday Fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park brings the holiday spirit alive with whimsical décor, engaging entertainment, and a festive vibe all around.
- Santa at Restaurantosaurus – For the first time, Santa makes his way to the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party on the patio at Restaurantosaurus from November 12 through December 24.
- Mickey and Minnie in Holiday Attire – Guests can capture holiday memories with Mickey and Minnie in their seasonal best at Adventurers Outpost.
- Merry Menagerie Puppets by the Tree of Life bring festive, handcrafted animal puppets like reindeer and penguins, adding a playful touch to the day.
- Tree of Life Awakening – As night descends, the Tree of Life lights up with an awe-inspiring display of color and movement, creating an unforgettable moment for the entire family.
Classic Holiday Glitz at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Starting November 12, Disney’s Hollywood Studios merges holiday nostalgia with the glamour of classic Hollywood.
- Holiday Spirit Band adds a lively rhythm with new acts, musicians, and even juggling elves spreading cheer throughout the park.
- Toy Story Land transforms with holiday touches, as beloved characters don festive outfits and invite guests to explore Andy’s backyard, decked out for the season.
- For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration brings a festive finale starring Olaf and holiday tunes.
- Sunset Seasons Greetings lights up the Hollywood Tower Hotel, transforming it with Muppets gingerbread magic, a Toy Story-inspired hotel, and scenes from “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.”
Holiday Cheer and Treats at Disney Springs
Disney Springs offers a festive destination with seasonal treats, nightly snowfalls, and themed holiday shopping.
- Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll features creatively themed Christmas trees inspired by Disney classics like “The Lion King” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” complete with MagicBand+ interactive experiences.
- Holiday Shopping at World of Disney and Disney’s Days of Christmas showcases enchanting collections and the perfect gifts for family and friends.
- Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar transforms into a cozy haven with festive bites and sips, inviting guests to warm up and enjoy the season.
Disney Resort Collection Hotels: A Home for the Holidays
Disney Resort hotels offer unique holiday experiences that go beyond the parks, each adorned with grand Christmas trees and enchanting holiday decor. Guests can:
- Explore intricate gingerbread displays crafted with attention to detail, a beloved holiday tradition.
- Sample limited-time holiday treats available at select resort dining locations and shops.
A Festive Challenge with runDisney
For those who want to keep moving during the holidays, the runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas offers three 4K races throughout December, encouraging participants to get active in their neighborhoods or at the resort. Finishers receive a medal, cozy hoodie, holiday-themed CORKCICLE mug, and access to digital tools for a memorable experience.
Taste of the Season Across Walt Disney World
Throughout the resort, guests can indulge in a variety of holiday-themed sweet and savory bites, created to bring out the flavors of the season and add even more cheer to each magical day.
Santa Claus Sightings and More
For an extra touch of holiday magic, guests can catch Santa Claus at locations around the resort. The My Disney Experience app provides details on meeting times, ensuring families don’t miss out on a festive moment with the jolly man himself.
To enjoy these holiday experiences, guests need valid theme park admission, and some days may require a park reservation. Visit Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season and immerse yourself in a celebration of joy, togetherness, and unforgettable holiday magic.
