If you have plans to travel to Walt Disney World during the Christmas holiday season, congratulations! You will be visiting during one of the most magical times of the year, even for Disney.
Let’s start with the Magic Kingdom. You will find Cinderella Castle decked out in breathtaking “icicle” lights each night. Be sure to get pictures: if you are like me and not great with taking night-time pictures, then be sure to get a few PhotoPass shots in front of the castle. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did! 🙂
Magic Kingdom also hosts Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on a number of nights in November and December, prior to Christmas. This is a separate ticket, so if you want to attend (and it is VERY fun), you will need to purchase tickets separately from your park pass. One of the highlights is the Christmas parade, featuring those famous Wooden Soldiers. If you want to see the parade, but don’t plan on going to the Party before Christmas, you will be able to see it daily, every afternoon, typically starting Christmas Day…no separate ticket needed! (Please note: The Walt Disney World Christmas Parade that you see on TV every year on Christmas morning is NOT a live event and is, in fact, taped weeks before. So PLEASE do not go to the Magic Kingdom on Christmas morning expecting to see/be in the parade!)
And of course, the nightly fireworks display is held every night, but with a “Holiday” theme that is truly delightful.
What about Epcot? I have to say that Epcot is my personal favorite. While the decorations are beautiful, World Showcase offers a number of wonderful programs as part of the International Festival of Holidays, and if you have ever wondered what it would be like to celebrate Christmas in another country, here is your chance. Each country presents their favorite holiday traditions, and many have Holiday Storytellers that highlight some very interesting and fun customs: don’t be surprised to see Father Christmas in England, Pere Noel in France, and the Nutcracker in Germany to name a few. It is delightful and yes, educational, in a very fun way.
Probably the highlight of the Walt Disney World holidays in Epcot is the Candlelight Processional, a nightly presentation of the Christmas story with a celebrity guest narrator and a huge massed choir made up of professional, college, and high school choirs from around the country. Do NOT miss this! Although there are 3 showings each night, the line for seats starts well in advance of each show. You can reserve a seat by purchasing a Candlelight Processional dinner package, and I highly recommend this. If you don’t want to do the dining package, then assign someone in your group to wait in the stand-by line. It is dramatic, and powerful, and very moving.
At Hollywood Studios, Holiday fun awaits with Sunset Seasons Greetings. Featuring impressive new laser effects and “snow,” holiday magic transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel with spectacular projections of beloved Disney Characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Olaf sharing their favorite seasonal stories. And you won’t want to miss the nighttime spectacular “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” will treat holiday-goers to festive music, fireworks, special effects and state-of-the-art projections during a one-of-a-kind holiday experience at the iconic Chinese Theatre.
New this year at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, there will be festive new entertainment and holiday décor in every land. Beginning November 8, 2019, when you cross the bridge to Discovery Island, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a celebration of winter. By day, stylized, life-sized animal puppets mingle with villagers who make the island their home. As day becomes night, rooftop luminaries in animal shapes and bird lanterns throughout Discovery Island will bring a warm glow to the village. Also, as the sun sets, the Tree of Life will awaken with a series of wintry tales emerging from within, backed by a heartwarming holiday musical score.
And last, but definitely not least, seasonal – and amazing – decorations abound at the Disney resorts and Disney Springs, so be sure to make time during your trip to check them out as well!
The Walt Disney World holiday season is truly spectacular and if you are visiting this year, you are sure to create some wonderful memories.
Find out how the FREE services of a Disney World travel agent can make planning your Disney vacation simple and STRESS FREE!
Want to know when Disney announces special savings and deals? Sign Up to Learn About the Latest Disney Promotions!
Wondering about vacations beyond the “world of Disney”? Receive alerts on the latest travel deals for Universal Orlando Resort, Sandals/Beaches and select cruise lines!
