Celebrating the Holidays at Walt Disney World

As crisp autumn air makes way for the magic of winter, Disney has rolled out their list of holiday happenings that will transform the parks and resorts into a whimsical wonderland. For 2024, you’ll discover a sleigh-full of Yuletide cheer bursting with festive entertainment and dazzling decor.
As we prepare for the most wonderful time of the year, here’s an overview of the special, daytime experiences you can enjoy this holiday season, straight from Mickey himself!

Holiday Celebrations at the Magic Kingdom

Merrymaking comes alive at the Magic Kingdom starting November 12, with seasonal decorations lining Main Street, U.S.A., and themed food and drink items at select locations throughout the park! There’s plenty of holiday cheer to be spread.
Join Olaf at the castle stage for a “Frozen Holiday Surprise!” During this show, friends from Arendelle ring in the season together and help transform Cinderella Castle into a shimmering crystallized palace – a magical look that remains throughout the evening.
Jungle Cruise’s transformation into Jingle Cruise is a holiday overlay no one can resist! You can experience this wild attraction wrapped with festive jokes and even more fun memories starting November 2.

Celebrate Global Traditions at the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth

This holiday season, EPCOT invites world travelers and foodies alike to come together for the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. From November 29 to December 30, 2024, you can enjoy vibrant decorations and offerings that transform the park into a festive wonderland. (You can read more about the Festival of the Holidays in the Festivals Column in the newest issue of Celebrations Magazine!)

Wild Holiday Adventures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has everything needed to make your spirits bright this holiday season! From enchanting festive décor throughout the park to a lively, dinosaur-themed carnival brimming with holiday cheer in DinoLand U.S.A., there’s plenty to ensure a wildly festive day of fun!
New in 2024, Santa is heading to Restaurantosaurus! As the guest of honor at the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party on the patio, Santa invites everyone to join him in this festive new location from November 12 to December 24.
Capture a moment with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse by snapping a picture with the beloved duo in their holiday attire at Adventurers Outpost.
You can gather by the Tree of Life, where Merry Menagerie puppeteers showcase the artisan-sculpted wintry animal puppets, including reindeer, penguins and seals … oh my!
As night falls, you’re invited to gather for the enchanting Tree of Life Awakening. The whole family will be captivated by a dazzling display of color and light, where animal spirits come to life, weaving together an unforgettable experience perfect for little ones before bedtime.

Holiday Happenings at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Starting November 12, Disney’s Hollywood Studios transforms into a dazzling realm where holiday magic and classic Hollywood energy sync in perfect harmony, delivering all the nostalgic holiday feels! This year, exciting new entertainment offerings take center stage.
To begin, you can jam out to the Holiday Spirit Band at various performance spots throughout the park. The fun doesn’t stop there; new festive acts, including more holiday musicians and juggling elves, are making their debut.
In Toy Story Land, families enter a world where toy-sized festive fun is larger than life! Explore Andy’s backyard decked out in dazzling holiday decorations and say howdy to beloved “Toy Story” pals, all dressed up in their holiday finest.
Catch a showing of “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Singalong Celebration” with a special festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman Olaf and celebratory songs of the season. As night falls, experience the return of Sunset Seasons Greetings, where holiday magic transforms the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a Toy Story toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle, and a Dickensian village from Mickey’s Christmas Carol!

Holiday Bites and Seasonal Shopping at Disney Springs

At Disney Springs, you can discover festive fun this holiday season with sweet treats, nightly snowfalls, seasonal merchandise and enchanting entertainment, all wrapped in one magical experience!
Explore the enchanting Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, featuring beautifully themed trees inspired by Walt Disney Studios, Disney Animation, Pixar, Star Wars and Superheroes. Enjoy stunning displays showcasing Mufasa: The Lion King, The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coco, Lilo and Stitch, and more! Enhance the experience with MagicBand+ to add an extra touch of holiday magic.

Embrace the Spirit of the Season at Disney Resort Collection Hotels

You can immerse yourself in the magic of the season with uniquely transformed resort hotels, each adorned with grand Christmas trees inspired by the resort’s themes and beloved Disney stories – perfect for creating unforgettable family memories.
Embark on a delightful journey through Disney Resort hotels to explore the many stunning gingerbread displays and amazing smells, a perfect way to celebrate the cherished tradition.

No matter where you are in Walt Disney World, you’ll find something to make your holidays even more magical!

Discover Even More Magic With the New Fall Issue of Celebrations Disney Magazine!

Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney with features and pictorials on:
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
• The Tower of Terror: 30 Years of Frights
• Disney and the 1964 New York World’s Fair
• Finding Princesses in the Parks
• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Inside Out 2
• and Much More!!

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