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Here’s How Much Disney Will Make You Pay Extra for Christmas

The holidays at Walt Disney World are some of the most magical weeks of the year, but they’re also some of the most expensive. Disney has officially announced pricing for the 2025 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages, and for guests hoping to secure a guaranteed seat at one of EPCOT’s most beloved Christmas traditions, it’s going to cost more than ever.

A FriendShip ferry boat on the World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT. Spaceship Earth is in the background at Disney World.
Credit: Paul Hudson, Flickr

What You’re Paying For

The Candlelight Processional is the crown jewel of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays. It’s a moving retelling of the story of Christmas, complete with a 50-piece orchestra, mass choir, and a rotating lineup of celebrity narrators. Seating for the show is always in high demand, and while standby seating is available, the easiest way to guarantee a spot is through a dining package.

Each package includes a meal at one of EPCOT’s participating restaurants plus a badge that ensures a reserved seat for that evening’s Candlelight Processional. For guests, it’s peace of mind during one of the busiest times of year. But that convenience doesn’t come cheap.

epcot candlelight processional
Credit: Disney Parks

The 2025 Prices

This year’s prices reflect the premium Disney knows guests are willing to pay for holiday experiences:

Other restaurants, including Tutto Italia, Via Napoli, and Rose & Crown, sit in the $65–$80 range for adults. Even the “budget” choices, though, can quickly add up for families.

Value or Vacation Tax?

On one hand, these packages take the stress out of lining up hours in advance for seating. For families with young kids or tight schedules, the cost can feel worth it. On the other hand, when dinner for a family of four at Le Cellier is well over $400 before tax and tip, it’s clear that “holiday magic” comes with a hefty price tag.

The question many fans are asking: is this still about tradition, or has it become another example of Disney monetizing every corner of the guest experience?

Candlelight Processional EPCOT's International Festival of the Holidays
Credit: Disney

Christmas Magic, at a Cost

Regardless of the debate, there’s no denying that the Candlelight Processional remains one of Disney’s most meaningful events. The combination of scripture, music, and celebrity narration continues to captivate guests year after year. For many families, no price tag will stop them from making it part of their holiday trip.

But make no mistake: if you want to experience it with guaranteed seats, you’ll be paying extra—sometimes a lot extra.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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