Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort transforms into a holiday wonderland every year, filled with festive activities that come included with a park ticket. From joyful shows to seasonal food and entertainment, here’s a guide to the holiday celebrations at each park.
EPCOT
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, presented by AdventHealth, runs from November 29 to December 30, 2024. It features stunning decorations, festive performances, and global holiday traditions. Guests can experience storytellers sharing cultural legends, like Las Posadas in Mexico, Hanukkah between Morocco and France, and the Daruma tradition in Japan.
For music lovers, the JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season show delivers Gospel, R&B, and holiday hits at World Showcase Plaza. The Candlelight Processional at the America Gardens Theater tells the story of Christmas with a celebrity narrator, choir, and orchestra—truly a must-see event.
Living with the Land also gets a holiday makeover, showcasing lights and decorations during a relaxing boat ride through the greenhouses. There’s more to explore throughout the festival, making it a memorable holiday destination.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Beginning November 12, Disney's Animal Kingdom delights guests with the Merry Menagerie, a group of artisan-sculpted animal puppets like reindeer and penguins near the Tree of Life. DinoLand U.S.A. gets a festive twist with the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party, featuring Santa Claus at Restaurant-o-Saurus from November 12 to December 24.
Guests can also meet Mickey and Minnie in their holiday attire at Adventurers Outpost. As night falls, the Tree of Life Awakening brings a dazzling display of lights and music, perfect for families.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
From November 12, Disney's Hollywood Studios pairs old Hollywood glamor with festive cheer. The Holiday Spirit Band adds live music across the park, along with special performances from holiday musicians and juggling elves. Toy Story Land becomes a holiday spectacle, where favorite characters like Woody and Buzz sport their festive outfits.
The Frozen Sing-Along Celebration adds a seasonal twist, with a festive finale starring Olaf. The evening brings Sunset Seasons Greetings, with the Hollywood Tower Hotel transforming into enchanting holiday scenes like a Muppets gingerbread house, a snowy Arendelle, and more.
Magic Kingdom Park
Magic Kingdom Park offers ultimate holiday immersion with decorations lining Main Street, U.S.A., and the scent of baked goods filling the air. The Frozen Holiday Surprise at Cinderella Castle showcases a magical transformation, while the Jingle Cruise brings festive humor to the Jungle Cruise ride, starting November 2.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs invites guests to the Christmas Tree Stroll, featuring themed trees inspired by Disney classics like The Lion King and Coco. MagicBand+ adds extra holiday magic to the experience, with nightly snowfall and live entertainment enhancing the festivities. Shoppers can visit World of Disney to browse holiday collections, while seasonal bites and drinks at Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar add to the fun.
Disney Resorts Collection Hotels
Disney Resorts Collection hotels also join the celebration with grand Christmas trees and themed decorations. Guests can indulge in special holiday treats at select dining locations and enjoy intricate gingerbread displays—an annual tradition for visitors.
runDisney Events
Stay active this season with the runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas, running from December 1 to 31. Participants can join three 4K races from anywhere, earning race medals that double as holiday ornaments, along with a hooded shirt, holiday mug, and digital tools. Registration details are available at runDisney.com.
Food and Beverage Delights
Seasonal bites are available throughout the resort, featuring both sweet and savory holiday favorites.
Santa Claus Sightings
Santa Claus will be making appearances across the resort, with meet-and-greet details available on the My Disney Experience app.
Plan Your Holiday Visit to Walt Disney World Resort
The holiday season at Walt Disney World is filled with magical events, dazzling lights, and delightful treats, making it the perfect place for unforgettable holiday memories.
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