Disney World is always magical, but during the holiday season, it transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, festive décor, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re visiting with little ones, teens, or the whole family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
From exclusive holiday events to themed attractions, here’s a list of the best things to do at Disney World during the holiday season.
15 Ways to Experience the Holiday Magic at Walt Disney World
1. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
This special ticketed event at Magic Kingdom Park is the highlight of the season. With festive parades, dazzling fireworks, and exclusive treats, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting Disney World during the holidays. The Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show are crowd favorites.
You can check out our full review of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party here!
2. Enjoy the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
Grab a spot on Main Street to watch this festive parade featuring your favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday best. Dancing reindeer, gingerbread men, and even Santa Claus himself make an appearance. Don’t miss the magical snowfall that turns Main Street into a snowy wonderland.
Typically this parade runs during the week of Christmas for all guests and for guests of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for the rest of the season.
Pro Tip: For the best view, grab a spot near the Christmas tree at the Town Square or along Main Street facing Cinderella Castle. The second parade is often less crowded if you can stay up late.
3. Marvel at Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
This spectacular fireworks show lights up the night sky with a holiday twist. The combination of classic Christmas songs, breathtaking pyrotechnics, and a magical finale makes it an unforgettable experience. This firework show is part of the ticketed event, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
4. Experience the Holiday-Themed Rides
Many attractions receive a holiday makeover during the season. Highlights include the Jungle Cruise transforming into the festive “Jingle Cruise” and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – Holiday Remix!
Don’t miss the holiday version of Space Mountain during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience with festive music and lighting effects!
5. Celebrate at Disney Jollywood Nights
Disney’s Hollywood Studios shines with its newest holiday event: Disney Jollywood Nights, a glamorous, ticketed celebration filled with retro holiday charm. Think Hollywood glamour meets holiday cheer!
This event features live entertainment, including jazz-inspired holiday performances, and characters dressed in vintage holiday costumes. Specialty food and drinks, unique photo opportunities, and a jazz lounge vibe set the scene. Guests can also enjoy holiday-themed projections on the iconic Tower of Terror.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead for the themed food and drink options, as some of the most popular items tend to sell out.
6. Explore Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays
Take a trip around the world at Epcot, where you’ll find unique holiday traditions and flavors from various countries. Enjoy seasonal food at the Holiday Kitchens, listen to stories of holiday customs, and catch the Candlelight Processional for a heartwarming retelling of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators.
7. Stroll Through Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Stroll
Disney Springs comes alive with the Christmas Tree Stroll, featuring elaborately themed trees inspired by Disney movies and characters. It’s a great spot for festive family photos and holiday shopping.
Pick up a map of the Christmas Tree Stroll at Disney Springs. Once you’ve seen all the trees, return your completed map to claim a small prize!
8. Snap Photos with Characters in Holiday Outfits
During the holidays, many Disney characters don their festive best. Whether it’s Mickey in his Santa suit or Goofy as a holiday baker, these photo ops make for perfect keepsakes.
Pro Tip: Character meet-and-greet lines are often shorter during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so plan to meet your favorites during the event.
9. Indulge in Holiday Treats
Seasonal snacks and drinks are available throughout the parks and resorts. From peppermint Mickey-shaped treats to holiday-themed churros, the culinary delights are worth the visit alone.
Pick up a seasonal treat like the Hot Cocoa Flight at Hollywood Studios or the famous Gingerbread Cookie at Epcot. Keep an eye out for exclusive popcorn buckets and mugs to take home as souvenirs!
10. Visit the Gingerbread Displays at the Resorts
The deluxe resorts at Disney World showcase intricate gingerbread displays that are works of art. Highlights include the life-sized gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and the gingerbread carousel at Disney’s Beach Club Resort.
Shop My Disney Holiday Favorites!
11. Shop for Exclusive Holiday Merchandise
From ornaments and festive apparel to unique Disney souvenirs, holiday merchandise is everywhere. Don’t forget to pick up the year’s exclusive holiday popcorn bucket or spirit jersey!
12. Catch Seasonal Entertainment and Dance Parties
Join in the fun at Club Tinsel or Disney Junior Jingle Jam. These dance parties feature high-energy music and entertainment for kids and adults alike.
13. See Cinderella Castle Sparkle
During the holidays, Cinderella Castle shines brighter than ever with festive lights. While the Dream Lights are no longer a staple, the projections on the castle still make for a dazzling sight.
14. Experience the Snow on Main Street
One of the most magical parts of Disney during the holidays is the snowfall on Main Street in Magic Kingdom. It’s a whimsical touch that makes the season feel even more special.
Grab a warm holiday drink from the Main Street Bakery to enjoy while watching the snow fall!
15. Stay for the Shorter Ride Wait Times
During ticketed events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights, many guests focus on the festivities, leaving ride lines shorter. This is a great opportunity to hop on popular attractions like Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train with minimal waits.
Disney World during the holiday season is truly magical. From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party to the new Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer.
Be sure to plan ahead, as tickets for events and dining reservations fill up quickly. No matter how you choose to celebrate, a holiday visit to Disney World is guaranteed to create memories that will last a lifetime.
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