By: Kaitlin Caputo, a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent
The holiday season at Walt Disney World is nothing short of magical. From twinkling lights to towering Christmas trees, the parks and resorts transform into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney enthusiast, celebrating the holidays at Walt Disney World offers unforgettable experiences for all ages. There is so much to see and do during the holiday season. Here are some top tips for celebrating the holidays at Walt Disney World from a Disney Travel Planner.
During the holiday season at WDW, there are some events where it is very important to pre-book before your trip. One of these events is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. This hard ticket event takes place on select nights from the beginning of November until right before Christmas. Any of our travel agents know this event sells out quickly and we encourage clients to purchase tickets as soon as possible once they become available. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offers the opportunity to watch the Once Upon a Christmas Time Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.
Pro Tip: When attending the Christmas Party you can get into Magic Kingdom at 4 pm even though the party doesn’t start until 7 pm. I recommend you use this time to get something to eat, ride some rides, and get in line for your first character (if meeting Winnie the Pooh and Friends, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Scrooge, or Santa).
If you are heading to EPCOT, you don’t want to miss the Festival of the Holidays, which features international holiday traditions, delicious seasonal bites, and the Candlelight Processional–a beloved retelling of the Christmas story accompanied by a full orchestra and choir. For guaranteed seating, be sure to book the dining package. By booking a dining package at one of fifteen restaurants, you can guarantee yourself a seat for the show. Prices for the dining package vary based on the meal and restaurant. Ask your travel agent for more details on pricing.
Pro Tip: When selecting a dining time for your package, ensure your dining reservation is no later than two-and-a-half hours before the show. This will ensure you are not rushing through your meal or to the theater if the restaurant is running behind their reservation times.
Don’t miss the Glimmering Greenhouse inside Living with the Land. This beloved attraction gets a festive makeover during the holiday season, with twinkling lights, creative holiday displays, and seasonal touches throughout its lush gardens. It’s a unique and peaceful way to enjoy EPCOT’s festive atmosphere while learning about sustainable farming.
Also during the Festival of the Holidays, check out the Holiday Storytellers. These storytellers tell the story of each country's holiday traditions. In Mexico, Las Posadas Celebration celebrates the holiday season with storytelling, dance, and the music of Mariachi Cobre. In Norway, Sigrid tells the holiday tale of the Barn Santa. In China celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Chinese Lion Dancers and Si-Zhu Trio. In Italy, La Befana tells the story of why she visits sleeping children on the Eve of the Epiphany. In America listen to the Voices of Liberty as they sing classic holiday tunes to celebrate the different holidays. Discover the music and traditions of Hanukkah. In France, visit Pere Noel and discover how French children celebrate the magic of Christmas. Join Father Christmas in the United Kingdom to ring in the holiday season, sharing good cheer and holiday traditions from across the pond.
Finally at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays, sample global holiday dishes at the Holiday Kitchens. Don’t forget to participate in the Holiday Cookie Stroll by collecting stamps for each cookie you try and earning a sweet surprise at the end.
Pro Tip: Check the My Disney Experience app for a complete list of holiday snacks and where to find them. Some treats are only available for a limited time, so prioritize your must-tries!
Over at Animal Kingdom, be sure to check out the Merry Menagerie. The Merry Menagerie shines with life-sized, artisan-crafted animal puppets. These beautiful creatures roam Discovery Island, bringing whimsical, wintry magic to the park. Paired with the park's earthy decorations and shimmering Tree of Life awakenings, Animal Kingdom offers a holiday experience unlike any other.
Pro Tip: There are different animals in each set of the Merry Menagerie so make sure you check them out at different times during the day.
Resort hopping is a hidden gem activity during the holidays at Walt Disney World. The deluxe resorts, in particular, go all out with elaborate holiday displays. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge exudes cozy Christmas vibes with its massive rustic tree and crackling fireplaces, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge incorporates cultural elements with its festive decor. Disney’s Beach Club also has a Gingerbread Carousel based on a new theme each year. This year the carousel is based on A Christmas Carol. Disney’s Yacht Club has a winter village with a running train in the lobby. Be on the lookout for familiar locations and characters. Disney’s Boardwalk has a gingerbread display of the Boardwalk. If you visit on the hour, a special surprise pops out announcing the hour.
The Monorail resorts—Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village Resort, and Contemporary Resort—make it easy to hop from one beautifully decorated space to another. Take the monorail loop and enjoy festive sights, snacks, and maybe even some holiday shopping at their gift shops.
A stop at the Grand Floridian is a must during the holiday season. This year is the 25th Anniversary of the Grand Floridian’s Gingerbread House. This Gingerbread House is a life-size house where you can buy different treats, including a gingerbread shingle. The lobby is also decorated with a massive Christmas tree and other festive decorations. If you plan to visit the Grand Floridian, make sure you utilize Disney Transportation as they will not allow you to park at the resort without being a hotel guest or having a confirmed dining reservation.
Pro Tip: Visiting resorts during a non-park day is a great way to experience the magic of Disney without using a park ticket.
Disney Springs takes holiday decor to the next level with the Christmas Tree Stroll. This free activity lets guests explore the shopping and dining district while marveling at elaborately themed Christmas trees inspired by Disney movies, characters, and attractions. It’s a perfect way to soak up the holiday atmosphere while shopping for gifts or enjoying festive treats.
Pro Tip: Pick up a map of the Christmas Tree Stroll at participating locations and complete it for a fun holiday souvenir!
The little touches can make your holiday visit truly magical. Take a scenic carriage ride at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, enjoy a festive character dining experience, or book a holiday-themed tour if available. There is so much to see and do during the holiday season at Walt Disney World.
Don’t overlook the PhotoPass opportunities! Disney’s photographers are ready to capture magical holiday moments, and seasonal Magic Shots often include surprise festive elements like mistletoe or falling snow.
Pro Tip: If you’re celebrating a specific occasion like Christmas or New Year’s, stop by Guest Services for a free holiday celebration button to let Cast Members and fellow guests join in your cheer.
The holidays at Walt Disney World offer a one-of-a-kind experience filled with joy, wonder, and unforgettable memories. From stunning decorations and delicious treats to heartwarming shows and festive surprises, there’s magic around every corner. Planning ahead and incorporating these tips into your trip will ensure a holiday season filled with Disney enchantment.
Booking with a travel agent can take the stress out of celebrating the holidays at Walt Disney World. Contact Kaitlin or another Marvelous Mouse Travels agent to make your Disney dreams a reality!
