If you are planning on going to Disney World at Christmas this year, you might be wondering what to expect. Visiting Disney World this time of year is truly magical and you will find that of the Disney World parks are filled with plenty of holiday cheer.
Guide to Going to Disney World at Christmas
This is quite possibly my favorite time of year at Disney World! Wondering what you can expect during the Christmas season? Here is how you can celebrate the holidays at each of the Disney parks!
Christmas at Magic Kingdom
Beginning the first week of November, Magic Kingdom transforms into a winter wonderland!
The front entrance will have hanging garlands and colorful lights.
Main Street USA will feature a beautiful over-the-top Christmas tree, wreaths lining the street and festive window displays in the shops.
Those looking for some Christmas magic will also find it on the Jingle Cruise. This is the only time of the year when the jokes and decor change on the Jungle Cruise!
Unique Disney Christmas treats will still be available and you can find unique holiday souvenirs to bring home with you!
You will have the opportunity to celebrate at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year and if you want to experience it, you will need to get your tickets well in advance.
Christmas at Animal Kingdom
While Animal Kingdom doesn’t do it up like some of the other Disney parks, you can expect to find a few new holiday enhancements.
At Discovery Island, you will find life-size, artisan-sculpted animal puppets—including reindeer, penguins and polar bears.
Your favorite Disney characters will be dressed in their holiday finest and appear in festive flotillas along the Discovery River.
Lastly, the Tree of Life will take on a NEW Holiday Theme transformation at night!
Christmas at Hollywood Studios
You will find plenty of Christmas magic at Hollywood Studios! This park really does a great job of celebrating the holidays.
One of my favorite spots in Hollywood Studios during Christmas is Toy Story Land. You will find it decorated with giant presents, toys and fanciful ornaments!
Disney Characters will be dressed in their holiday best and you will find that even Buzz Lightyear gets in on the Christmas spirit!
There will be merry motorcades at Disney’s Hollywood Studios featuring some of your favorite Disney characters! You might even spot Santa himself!
Minnie Mouse will host a yuletide dining experience at Hollywood & Vine, inviting some of her best pals – including Santa Goofy – to join the fun.
Christmas at EPCOT
EPCOT is often overlooked at Christmastime, but it is one of the best parks to visit! Not only will you find it decorated, but there are plenty of fun events and Christmas activities to take part in.
Our favorite thing to experience is EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays where you can experience Christmas traditions from different cultures.
Not only can you experience traditions, you can also try holiday food from different cultures! This Disney World Christmas celebration runs the entire month of December!
EPCOT also features a Holiday Cookie Stroll where you can explore the park & taste holiday cookies!
Official Holiday Cookie Stroll Locations
- Yukon Holiday Kitchen
SNICKER-Doodle Cookie made with SNICKERS® bar pieces - L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen
Black and White Cookie - American Holiday Table
Chocolate Crinkle Cookie made with DOVE Dark Chocolate - Bavaria Holiday Kitchen
Linzer Cookie - Holiday Hearth Desserts
Gingerbread Cookie
Not to be missed is the Candlelight Processional!
Each night, a celebrity narrator tells the story of Christmas, recounting the biblical tale of a savior born in Bethlehem. Woven into the production are stirring songs of hope and joy performed by the orchestra and massed choir.
Christmas at Disney Resorts
One of the things that many people don’t realize is that Disney decorates their Disney Resorts for Christmas just like they do at the parks.
You will find each resort lobby filled with Christmas magic.
Some Disney Resorts are better decorated than others, but they are free to visit so if you have the time, be sure to do it!
Blizzard Beach
This is your chance to visit a waterpark during the holidays and experience Florida in a whole different way.
Since you will be at a Ski Resort, you will get to have the perks of being in what looks like a cold environment during the Christmas season.
Some of the holiday events at Blizzard Beach that you will get to experience are:
- Santa Claus dressed for a day of tropical fun.
- Snowfall in select locations at the park.
- Seasonal menu items: Peppermint Milkshake, Orange Bird Santa Cone and more.
- Holiday-themed inner tubes.
Christmas at Disney Springs
Elaborately decorated Christmas trees will spring up throughout Disney Springs and you won’t want to miss seeing them decorated.
There will also be a magical snowfall at Town Center, West Side and The Landing.
Want to get a photo with Santa? You will be able to find him at Disney Springs!
Looking for some magical dining experiences, check these out:
- Breakfast with Santa at T-REX
- Breakfast with Santa at Rainforest Café at Disney Springs Marketplace
- Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar: The holiday takeover is returning this year—with a magical twist!
Favorite Disney World Winter Clothing
You don't get many times of years to wear winter clothes at Disney, but if you are travelling to Disney World in January and February, here are some pieces you might want to bring with you.
Visiting Disney World at Christmas is certainly a treat and if you get the chance to experience it, I’m sure it will be a memory that you treasure forever.