A Holly Jolly Holiday at Walt Disney World: Festive Fun Included with Your Park Ticket!
Walt Disney World Resort transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a sleigh-full of festive experiences included with your park admission. From dazzling decorations to captivating entertainment and unique character encounters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your park ticket and get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of year at the most magical place on earth!
Related – 5 New Holiday Additions Coming to Disneyland
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Embark on a global holiday adventure at the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, running from November 29th to December 30th. World Showcase comes alive with vibrant decorations, lively storytellers sharing holiday traditions from around the world, and festive cuisine from the Holiday Kitchens.
Don’t miss these highlights:
- “JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season”: A high-energy musical performance featuring gospel, R&B, and holiday songs.
- Candlelight Processional: A beloved tradition featuring celebrity narrators, a mass choir, a 50-piece orchestra, and the Voices of Liberty. This year’s narrators include Nico Santos, Ralph Macchio, and Titus Burgess.
- Living with the Land – Glimmering Greenhouses: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through the greenhouses adorned with festive decorations.
Holiday Cheer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Starting November 12th, Disney’s Animal Kingdom joins the holiday festivities with enchanting experiences:
- Merry Menagerie: Encounter life-sized artisan puppets of winter animals on Discovery Island.
- Santa Claus at Restaurantosaurus: Meet Santa Claus at the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party, taking place on the patio from November 12th to December 24th.
- Mickey and Minnie Mouse at Adventurers Outpost: Meet Mickey and Minnie dressed in their holiday best.
- Tree of Life Awakenings: Witness the Tree of Life come alive with dazzling winter-themed projections.
Related – New Holiday Experiences Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Hollywood Holiday Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Beginning November 12th, Disney’s Hollywood Studios blends holiday cheer with classic Hollywood glamour:
- New Entertainment: Enjoy festive performances by the Holiday Spirit Band, juggling elves, and spirited holiday musicians.
- Toy Story Land Holiday Fun: Explore Andy’s backyard decked out in festive decorations and meet your favorite “Toy Story” characters in their holiday attire.
- “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration”: Sing along to your favorite “Frozen” tunes and enjoy a special holiday finale featuring Olaf.
- Sunset Seasons Greetings: Watch the Hollywood Tower Hotel transform with festive projections each evening.
Related – New Holiday Entertainment Coming to Hollywood Studios
Merry Moments at Magic Kingdom Park
Magic Kingdom Park is a must-visit during the holidays, with festive decorations, enchanting entertainment, and interactive experiences:
- “Frozen Holiday Surprise”: Join Olaf and friends at the castle stage for a magical show that transforms Cinderella Castle into a shimmering ice palace.
- Jingle Cruise: Embark on a festive jungle adventure as the Jungle Cruise gets a holiday makeover.
Holiday Happenings at Disney Springs
Disney Springs offers a festive atmosphere with a Christmas Tree Stroll, nightly snowfall, joyful entertainment, and unique holiday shopping opportunities.
Festive Fun at Disney Resort Hotels
The magic extends to the Disney Resort hotels, where guests can admire grand Christmas trees, festive decorations, and indulge in holiday treats.
When you stay at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel during this festive season, you and your loved ones can enjoy the uniquely transformed Resort hotels, each featuring grand Christmas trees inspired by the resort’s theme and beloved Disney stories. Wrapped in shimmering ornaments and twinkling lights, these trees create a magical atmosphere and perfect backdrop for family photos. And let’s not forget the beautiful decorations that add even more charm to the scene.
Plus, be on the lookout for holiday treats during your stay — available at select dining locations and shops for a limited time.
One of our favorite parts of the holiday season is exploring the gingerbread displays at several Disney Resort hotels! We love embarking on our own gingerbread crawl, which gives us the chance to have a sweet viewing of our beloved tradition. We can’t wait to see what delicious displays the talented cast members will whip up this year. More details will be shared soon!
runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas
Whether you’re taking on the running trails at Walt Disney World or getting your miles in around your neighborhood, you can enjoy some holiday magic with the runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas. From December 1 to 31, this festive fitness virtual event offers three virtual 4K races, perfect for sharing the spirit of the season with friends and family.
Each race medal doubles as a holiday ornament, adding an extra touch of cheer. 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.
Food and Beverages
Season’s eatings to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! Throughout the resort, treat yourself to holiday bites. Whether you enjoy sweet eats or savory treats, Walt Disney World Resort has something that will fill your fancy. Keep an eye out for the ultimate holiday foodie guides coming soon.
Santa Sightings
Tell the kids to start putting together their wish lists because no holiday is complete without meeting the head honcho himself! Although Santa has a busy schedule, there are many opportunities to meet him across the resort this holiday season. You can visit My Disney Experience for specific times and locations to meet the one and only on your next visit.
Not to be Missed Special Events
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Step into a yuletide tale full of cheer at this festive event at Magic Kingdom park—select nights November 8 to December 20, 2024.
Delight in merriment, music and spirited good times during this special event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios—select nights November 9 to December 21, 2024.
With so much to see and do, a holiday visit to Walt Disney World is sure to be filled with unforgettable memories. To learn more about Disney Holiday offerings, visit DisneyWorld.com/Holidays.
