Disney’s Hollywood Studios really shines during the holidays, and 2025 brings back all the seasonal magic that makes this park special from November 14 through December 31. If you’re planning a holiday trip, this park deserves a spot on your must-visit list—especially in the evening when the projections light up Sunset Boulevard.
WHAT’S BACK FOR 2025
Sunset Seasons Greetings – This nightly projection show transforms the Tower of Terror into different holiday scenes that’ll make you smile. You’ll see the tower become a Muppets gingerbread house, a Toy Story toy hotel, a frozen Arendelle scene, and a cozy village from Mickey’s Christmas Carol. The best part? There’s actual snow falling on Sunset Boulevard (maybe more “snoap” than “snow”), and the old-school billboards come to life with holiday stories.
Holiday Decorations – Echo Lake gets the full treatment with a gorgeous 65-foot Christmas tree that looks stunning reflected in the water, plus giant glowing ornaments floating around it. Gertie the dinosaur gets her Santa hat and ornament, which has become a holiday tradition. Throughout the park, you’ll find vintage-style decorations including life-sized Christmas figurines—look for the three peppermint girls on the Brown Derby lawn and pink spaghetti poodles outside Hollywood & Vine.
Frozen Sing-Along – The show at Hyperion Theater adds a special holiday finale featuring Olaf and songs from “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure.” It’s a nice touch that makes the regular show feel extra festive.
Toy Story Land Gets Festive – Woody sports a candy cane in his holster and holiday vest, while Jessie gets a red vest with peppermint trim. The land features giant holiday decorations that fit perfectly with Andy’s backyard theme—oversized popcorn garland, alien ornaments, and huge sugar cookies. Even Alien Swirling Saucers gets holiday music.
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DINING & CHARACTERS
Minnie’s Holiday Dine – Hollywood & Vine transforms into holiday headquarters where Minnie, Mickey, and Santa Goofy show up in festive outfits. The buffet features solid holiday fare and it’s only available at dinner (Disney Junior characters are at breakfast). Make sure you book the right meal time.
THE TICKETED PARTY
Disney Jollywood Nights – Running select nights from November 8-December 22, this separately ticketed event brings back “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” fireworks plus tons of exclusive entertainment: an ice skating show called “Glisten!”, a Pixar disco party, Latin street fair with Miguel from Coco, and a Nightmare Before Christmas sing-along. There’s also special entertainment at the Brown Derby and Hollywood Tower Hotel courtyard.
Character meetings include some rare ones like Powerline Max, Phineas and Ferb, The Mandalorian, Joy, Miguel, Bing Bong, and Partysaurus Rex. Tickets run $159-$199 and you can enter early at 5:30 PM.
CHARACTER MEETINGS
Beyond the dining experience, you’ll find holiday-dressed characters throughout the park. Woody and Jessie meet outside Toy Story Mania in their festive gear, while Chip ‘n’ Dale sport adorable winter hats and scarves on the Brown Derby lawn. Check the My Disney Experience app for current meeting times and locations.
Santa Visits – The big guy shows up at Walt Disney Presents from November 8 through December 24. Lines can get crazy during peak times, so check the app and try for earlier in the season.
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HOLIDAY TREATS
The park offers seasonal snacks at various locations from November through early January. Highlights include the Coquito Wreath Cupcake at multiple spots, Hot Cocoa Lunch Box Tart at Woody’s Lunch Box, and a Red Velvet Holiday Milk Shake at Dockside Diner. Most are available for mobile order.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
The official season kicks off November 14, but Jollywood Nights starts November 8. Most decorations are up by early November, so you’ll see the holiday transformation even before the official start date.
“Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” only happens during the paid party, not during regular park hours. Sunset Seasons Greetings is the free highlight that runs every night after sunset and is honestly worth a trip by itself.
Keep an eye out for PhotoPass MagicShots with holiday themes like Stitch, Sven & Olaf, Chip ‘n’ Dale ornaments, and winter confetti (everywhere except Galaxy’s Edge).
PLANNING STRATEGY
Visit Hollywood Studios in the evening during holiday season if you can. The projections, the snow, the lit-up decorations, and that gorgeous Echo Lake tree reflection all come together beautifully after dark. The vintage Christmas figurines scattered around the park make for great photo ops during the day.
Make dining reservations early if you want Minnie’s Holiday Dine, and remember it’s dinner only for the holiday characters. For Jollywood Nights, book early since it’s a popular event with limited dates.
The holidays at Hollywood Studios hit different than the other parks. It’s got this old Hollywood glamour mixed with Disney magic that feels both nostalgic and festive. Whether you’re catching the free entertainment or splurging on the party, this park delivers serious holiday vibes.