“I want to go to Walt Disney World for Christmas!” is something that every Disney fan has said before. And then you look at prices, resort availability, ADRs and crowd calendars…and then you reconsider and end up going to WDW 3rd week of November!
But hey, why would someone want to go to the most visited theme park in the world during their busiest time of the year? Great question! Let me show you exactly why it’s worth braving the holiday crowds…
1. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Magic Kingdom)
Select nights November and December
Cookies, hot chocolate, fireworks, and Disney…seems like a great combination to me! Although it’s a hard ticket event, the party is a highlight for those of us who want a little extra holiday cheer with our favourite Disney characters (and Santa of course!). Plus, you’ll get to experience the new “Frozen Holiday Surprise” where Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and the Snowgies illuminate Cinderella Castle in a dazzling display!
2. Candlelight Processional at EPCOT
Part of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays (November – December)
Put this on your list of activities to experience, because it’s well worth it! The Candlelight Processional is the story of Christmas as told by a celebrity narrator, backed by a 50-piece cast member orchestra and massive choir in the American Garden Theatre.
EXTRA TIP: Look into the Dining Package to save your spot in the experience, as lineups get pretty crazy sometimes depending on who’s narrating that evening’s event.
3. The Most Magical Main Street Ever
Walking down Main Street USA is by far the best part of the holidays at Disney World. You’re able to see all the festive decorations, the hidden mickeys and Cinderella’s Castle in the distance…yea, it’s pretty awesome. And yes, it even SNOWS on Main Street! Don’t miss the transformed Jingle Cruise (formerly Jungle Cruise) for some holiday puns that’ll make you groan with delight.
4. Resort Hopping Adventures
One of my favourite pastimes while on Disney property is to visit all the various Resorts…usually to pin trade…but in the holidays it gets more fun as each resort has their own unique brand of celebrations. Christmas Trees and awesome decorations aplenty are enough to get some guests to come back year after year. Pro tip: Don’t miss the life-size gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian!
5. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays
EPCOT has always been a park for knowledge and “Edu-tainment”, but during November & December, the World Showcase takes center stage with holiday celebrations from around the world. Each country offers a sampling of their holiday traditions at scheduled times during the day.
It’s a great way to take in the cultures of the participating countries and maybe learn a little bit at the same time! Don’t miss the “Glimmering Greenhouses” at Living with the Land – they’re extra magical during the holidays!
6. Characters in Their Holiday Best
Goofy dressed as Santa is probably one of my favourite memories of all time! But Goofy isn’t the only one decked out for the season. The parks are packed with holiday characters you can only find during this time of year. Mickey & Minnie, Donald & Daisy, Chip & Dale, Pluto, and Tinker Bell all have special outfits for the holidays. Head over to Hollywood & Vine to join Minnie and friends for a dazzling holiday dinner party!
7. Disney Jollywood Nights (Back for 2025!)
Select nights November to December
It’s on the list just to make sure that you’re aware of it. Disney Jollywood Nights is the latest full extra-ticketed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and there are a lot of folks who have been to the event and documented the entire experience. As I haven’t had the chance to go to the event, it’s irresponsible for me to provide commentary, outside of saying that I’ve seen the videos and feedback online as well. Do your research, which is the same advice that I share with everyone who’s making an educated decision on which experiences you should plan for.
8. Holiday Shopping Paradise
Did you know that you can buy holiday merchandise year-round at Disney Springs and in the Magic Kingdom? No matter what time you visit, you can always find holiday merchandise at Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Days of Christmas at Disney Springs. While you’re at Disney Springs, don’t miss the Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth – it’s free and features elaborately decorated themed trees throughout the area!
9. Animal Kingdom’s Holiday Magic
Don’t skip Animal Kingdom during the holidays! The Merry Menagerie brings Discovery Island to life with amazing artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals like penguins, reindeer, foxes and polar bears. Stay until evening to catch the special holiday edition of Tree of Life Awakenings, complete with a heartwarming musical score.
Did we miss something on our list? Check it twice…and then send me a note via Instagram @StepstoMagic