When you think of “home for the holidays”, does Walt Disney World come to mind? The Walt Disney World Resort has so much to offer as it transforms into a winter wonderland for the holiday season, blending magic and merriment in all four parks. Here’s a look into some of the ways you can celebrate the holiday season at Walt Disney World – and better yet, each of these offerings are included in your park ticket! Start making your WDW planning list and checking it twice…
Magic Kingdom
Festive decorations will once again line Main Street, U.S.A., accompanied by the smell of baked goods filling the air from the nearby confectionary.
Outside of the famed Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, here are the festivities you can look forward at Magic Kingdom with your regular park ticket:
- Join Olaf at the castle stage for a “Frozen Holiday Surprise!” During this show, friends from Arendelle ring in the season together and help transform Cinderella Castle into a shimmering crystalized palace – a magical look that remains throughout the evening. (This doesn’t sound like our beloved Castle Dream Lights are making their return this year…)
- Beginning November 2nd, Jungle Cruise transforms into Jingle Cruise, a wild river expedition wrapped up in limited-time festive jokes.
- New this year, waving at the Fab 50 Character sculpts with your MagicBand+ will result in different holiday reactions.
EPCOT
Of course, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is a must. From November 29th to December 30th, 2024, you can enjoy vibrant decorations, festive foods and offerings that transform EPCOT into a holiday wonderland. Besides the info below, Disney says to “stay tuned” for more info to come on this year’s International Festival of Holidays!
- Throughout World Showcase, listen to lively storytellers as they share holiday legends from around the world.
- Enjoy festive cuisine from countries near and far through the Holiday Kitchens bringing culinary traditions to life!
- The seasonal Living with the Land – Glimmering Greenhouses returns! Hop on a relaxing boat ride and soak in the decorated attraction while learning about foods produced in the greenhouses that play a part in the holiday celebrations around the resort.
- Witness a beautiful, high-energy tribute to Christmas with Gospel, R&B and holiday songs at “JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season.”
- Don’t miss Candlelight Processional! Experience the moving story of Christmas at the America Gardens Theatre, where a celebrity narrator is accompanied by a glorious mass choir, 50-piece orchestra, herald trumpets and even the Voices of Liberty (if you know you know). Check out the full celebrity narrator lineup HERE!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Beginning November 12th, Hollywood Studios will become extra glitzy as the park transforms into a place where holiday magic and classic Hollywood energy sync in perfect harmony, all while presenting the nostalgic festive feels with mid-century decorations! This year, there are some new entertainment offerings taking center stage.
- Jam out to the Holiday Spirit Band on one of their many performance spots and enjoy a hot pretzel. Keep an eye out for new festive acts throughout the park, including spirited holiday musicians and juggling elves!
- Catch a special festive finale in “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration”, featuring Olaf and celebratory songs of the season.
- “Sunset Seasons Greetings” projections on Hollywood Tower Hotel transforms the park’s icon into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a Toy Story toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle, and a Dickensian village from Mickey’s Christmas Carol!
- Festive fun is larger than life over in Toy Story Land, as Andy’s backyard is decked out in oversized holiday decorations. And say howdy to your favorite Toy Story pals, as the characters will be dressed in their holiday finest.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Time to get wild for the holidays! Starting November 12th:
- Spot artisan-sculpted wintry animal puppets like reindeer, penguins, and seals as you join the Merry Menagerie puppeteers at the Tree of Life.
- Over in DinoLand U.S.A., make sure to take in one last vibrant dinosaur-themed carnival infused with festive cheer. New this year, Santa is heading to Restaurantosaurus in DinoLand, as he’s the guest of honor at the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party on the patio. Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet Mr. Claus from November 12th to December 24th!
- As night falls, gather by the park’s icon for the Tree of Life Awakening projections, a dazzling display of color and light where the tree’s animal spirits come to life.
- And be sure to meet Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse in their special Animal Kingdom-themed holiday attire over at Adventurers Outpost!
Disney Springs
Embark on a cheerful holiday shopping adventure at the Springs, and make time for some coziness in between!
- Explore the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, where holiday music plays while surrounded by Walt Disney Studios, Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars and Super Hero-themed trees. This year, tree displays feature Mufasa: The Lion King, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coco, Lilo and Stitch, and more.
- Don’t forget the nightly “snowfall” that happens multiple times in the Town Center area, near the Christmas tree!
- Multiple locations across Disney Springs will offer seasonal sips and bites, including Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar, the family-friendly waterfront outpost that transforms into its holiday best this time of year.
Disney Resort Hotels
Special holiday experiences extend beyond the parks when you stay at or visit a Disney Resort!
- Each resort lobby features grand Christmas trees inspired by the resort’s theme and beloved Disney stories. Wrapped in shimmering ornaments and twinkling lights, these trees set the perfect backdrop for family trip photos.
- Be on the lookout for special holiday treats during your stay, available at select dining locations and shops for a limited time.
- One of the best holiday WDW offerings outside of a theme park are exploring the beautiful gingerbread displays at several Disney Resort hotels! We can’t wait to see what delicious displays the talented cast members whip up this year.
runDisney
Enjoy some Disney holiday magic from home with the runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas. From December 1st to 31st, this festive fitness virtual event offers three virtual 4K races, and each race medal doubles as a holiday ornament!
Runners will also receive customizable digital tools, a long-sleeved hooded shirt, a holiday-themed CORKCICLE mug, and more, making it a fun and festive way to stay active this season. Registration is still open. To learn more, visit www.runDisney.com.
