Walt Disney World is more than just thrilling rides and beloved characters—it’s a place where each season brings a whole new kind of magic. Throughout the year, Disney hosts special events that transform the parks with limited-time food, entertainment, and immersive decor that add extra excitement to any vacation.
Planning a trip to Florida? These five events are worth building your vacation around.
1. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
Expected Dates: Late August 28 through November 22 2025
Get ready to eat and drink your way around the world! EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival is a dream for food lovers, offering a globe-trotting culinary experience with over two dozen Global Marketplaces.
Why Guests Love It:
- Signature dishes and drinks inspired by cultures around the world
- Live concerts from the Eat to the Beat series
- Culinary demos, mixology classes, and wine tastings
- Interactive scavenger hunts for kids and families
With unique bites, sips, and entertainment at every turn, it’s the perfect event for foodies, music fans, and adventurous eaters alike.
2. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Expected Dates: Select nights from August 15 through October 31st 2025
Spooky season takes a sweet, family-friendly twist at this beloved after-hours event in Magic Kingdom. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is packed with costumes, candy, and charmingly eerie entertainment.
Why It’s a Must-Do:
- Trick-or-treating around Magic Kingdom
- The fan-favorite Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, led by the Headless Horseman
- Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular on the castle stage
- Rare character appearances and spooky snacks
Costumes are encouraged for all ages, and the park’s festive ambiance makes this a Halloween highlight for Disney fans of every age.
3. Disney Jollywood Nights
Status: There are no official dates or announcements yet for 2025, but a return is highly likely given the popularity of previous years.
Hollywood glamour and vintage holiday vibes come together at Disney Jollywood Nights, an after-hours event that debuted at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and quickly became a fan favorite.
While Disney hasn’t officially confirmed its return for 2025, the event’s success makes it a strong contender to reappear on the calendar.
If it returns, here’s what to expect based on previous years:
- Exclusive stage shows and musical performances with an old-Hollywood twist
- Character greetings in elegant, retro-inspired holiday outfits
- Delicious specialty cocktails and limited-time treats
- Glamorous photo ops and a festive, adult-friendly atmosphere
Jollywood Nights offers a refreshing take on Disney holiday events, especially for guests who enjoy entertainment, ambiance, and a slightly more grown-up celebration.
4. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Expected Dates: Select nights from November through December 2025
Celebrate the season in classic Disney fashion with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom. This beloved event is pure holiday joy wrapped in festive entertainment.
What to Expect:
- Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, featuring Santa Claus
- A dazzling holiday fireworks show
- “Snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A.
- Complimentary cookies and cocoa around the park
- Festive character sightings and shorter ride wait times
It’s a heartwarming way to create new holiday memories with your loved ones—Disney style.
5. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Expected Dates: Late November through December 2025
Finish the year with a celebration of traditions from around the world. The Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT brings seasonal storytelling, global flavors, and cultural charm to life.
Festival Favorites Include:
- Holiday Kitchens serving festive dishes from many countries
- The Candlelight Processional, featuring celebrity narrators and a live choir
- Storytellers sharing cultural traditions from around the world
- Holiday merchandise, musical acts, and kid-friendly fun
- It’s a heartfelt way to learn about global holiday customs while enjoying the festive spirit of EPCOT.
Tips for Experiencing Disney’s Seasonal Events
- Buy Tickets Early: Popular events often sell out in advance.
- Arrive Early for After-Hours Parties: Maximize your time and get ahead of the crowds.
- Check the Calendar: Dates, entertainment, and offerings can vary year to year.
- Dress for the Theme: Whether it’s costumes for Halloween or holiday sweaters, festive outfits make the experience more fun!
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Try the Limited-Time Treats: Specialty snacks and drinks are a huge part of the magic.
Walt Disney World’s seasonal events offer something unforgettable for every guest, from spooky sweets to festive fireworks and everything in between. Whether planning a fall foodie adventure or a holly-jolly holiday escape, these limited-time celebrations turn a Disney trip into a once-a-year experience you won’t want to miss.
Which event are you most excited to attend this year? Share your Disney must-dos and tips for first-timers in the comments!
