Just hear those sleigh bells jiggling; we know it’s only October, but Disney World is well on its way to gearing up for its 2023 Christmas celebrations, including the fan-favorite Candlelight Processional at EPCOT.
Christmas at Disney World
If you think Halloween is a big deal at Disney World, just wait until you experience the holidays at the Florida-based resort. Disney, known for their expert attention to detail, turns Walt Disney World into a winter wonderland each and every year, complete with festive parties, beautiful holiday decorations, and special events for guests.
Although Disney World is home to several holiday offerings like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and the brand-new Disney’s Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios, one fan-favorite event stands out amongst the others at EPCOT every season.
Candlelight Processional at EPCOT
One favorite Christmas tradition for Walt Disney World guests is the retelling of the Christian Christmas story at EPCOT, which often features celebrity narrators and a beautifully arranged choir. Although the Candlelight Processional at EPCOT is representative of the Christian celebration of Christmas, its beauty and magnificence in how it is presented is a favorite for guests of all religious backgrounds.
The Candlelight Processional will begin this year on November 24, 2023, running through December 30, 2023, as part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. The festival itself promises perfect holiday eats and beverages all around the World Showcase. However, the real star of the show remains at the American Pavilion, where a 50-piece orchestra and choir made of Disney World Cast Members join a rolling list of celebrity narrators who retell the classic Christmas story.
2023 Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrators
This year’s list of narrators is an exciting addition to the holiday season at Walt Disney World. Like years past, fan-favorites like Neil Patrick Harris will be returning to EPCOT to tell the birth story of Jesus, while a few, new, and exciting additions appear on Disney World’s official narrator announcement.
- Chrissy Metz (NEW): Nov. 24-25
- Luis Fonsi (NEW): Nov. 26-27
- Ann-Margret (NEW): Nov. 28-29
- Simu Liu: Nov. 30-Dec. 2
- John Stamos: Dec. 3-5
- Neil Patrick Harris: Dec. 6-8
- Marlee Matlin: Dec. 9-11
- Brendan Fraser (NEW): Dec. 12-14
- Eva Longoria (NEW): Dec. 15-16
- Joey McIntyre (NEW): Dec. 17-18
- Sterling K. Brown (NEW): Dec. 19-20
- Jordan Fisher (NEW): Dec. 21-23
- Steven Curtis Chapman: Dec. 24-26
- Audra McDonald (NEW): Dec. 27-28
- Lisa Ling: Dec. 29-30
One new name to the list that is surprising is Brendan Fraser. Often associated with Universal Studios, where his Mummy ride resides, Fraser is a beloved Hollywood presence for fans. His presence at the 2023 Candlelight Processional will be much adored by fans and guests at EPCOT.
As well, self-proclaimed Disney dads Harris and John Stamos will return to the long list of celebrity narrators again for 2023, much to the delight of guests.
https://twitter.com/scottgustin/status/1709949504550768823?s=46
Candlelight Processional Dining Packages
Although all guests to EPCOT can enjoy the Candlelight Processional if they plan accordingly, others can take advantage of special dining packages that provide premiere seating to the event.
Beginning October 17, these packages will be available for purchase, allowing guests to secure their spot by dining at several different locations within EPCOT.
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – Norway Pavilion
- Biergarten Restuarant – Germany Pavilion
- Coral Reef Restuarant – The Living Seas
- Garden Grill Restuarant – The Land Pavilion
- Le Cellier Steakhouse – Canada Pavilion
- Regal Eagle Smokehouse – American Pavilion
- Rose & Crown Dining Room – United Kingdom Pavilion
- Spice Road Table – Morocco Pavilion
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays, EPCOT’s Candlelight Processional is a must-do event. In fact, it’s probably the premiere Christmas event at Disney World, even compared to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Purchasing the dining package helps to ensure your seating for the event, as it is highly popular and fills up fast.
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of Fraser, Harris, or Stamos this year, you’ll want to be quick on the 17th when reservations open, as they’ll likely go quick!
