A major change is coming to Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season, and it involves one of the most talked-about systems Disney has ever used: the virtual queue. Disney has officially confirmed that this popular tool will make its return beginning November 13 — just in time for the holidays.
A Familiar System Makes Its Comeback
Virtual queues have had their fair share of fans and critics over the years. They’ve been used for everything from opening-day rides to seasonal experiences, and now they’re coming back for something a little more festive. This year, guests who want to meet Santa Claus at Disney Springs will need to join a virtual queue to lock in their time slot.
That’s right — no standing in long, snaking lines in the Florida heat or crowds stretching halfway across the Springs. Instead, guests will use their phones to secure a spot and enjoy the rest of their day until it’s time to meet the man in red.
How the System Will Work
From November 13 through December 24, Santa will be greeting families near Disney’s Pin Traders. To meet him, you’ll need to join the virtual queue through the My Disney Experience app. The queue opens at five different times throughout the day: 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, and 6 PM.
You’ll have to be at Disney Springs to join the queue, but only one person needs to do it for the entire group. Up to 10 people can be included in one party. Once your return time arrives, you’ll receive a notification and a digital entry code — no wasted hours waiting around.
Why Disney Is Doing This
Holiday meet-and-greets, especially with Santa, draw massive crowds. By bringing back the virtual queue, Disney can keep things organized and cut down on congestion in high-traffic areas. It’s not just more efficient for operations — it’s better for guests too.
This strategy also aligns with Disney’s broader approach to crowd management during peak seasons. The virtual queue once dominated big attraction openings, and its return during the holidays might signal that Disney still sees it as a key part of its operational playbook.
What This Could Mean for the Future
While this rollout is specific to the Santa meet-and-greet, it wouldn’t be surprising if Disney uses virtual queues more often during busy times. Whether it’s a new ride, a seasonal event, or a popular festival, the system gives the company more control — and gives guests more time to enjoy everything else without being stuck in line.
If you’re planning a holiday trip this year, be ready to grab a virtual spot. Santa’s returning, and so is Disney’s tech-driven way of keeping crowds moving.
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