Holiday popcorn buckets have become one of those Disney traditions fans don’t talk about enough until they’re gone.
Every year, Disney quietly releases festive designs that feel perfectly timed with the decorations, music, and seasonal energy in the parks. And every year, a lot of guests assume they’ll be around longer than they actually are.
This holiday season is no different. Several Christmas-themed popcorn buckets and sippers are currently available across Walt Disney World, but they’re already nearing the end of their run. Once the holidays wrap up, these designs are expected to disappear by January 2026, making this season the final chance to grab them before Disney moves on.
Why Holiday Buckets Always Feel More Urgent
Regular popcorn buckets come and go, but holiday versions hit differently. They’re tied to a specific time of year, specific events, and a version of the parks that only exists for a few weeks. Once the Christmas trees come down and the music changes, those designs often vanish with no warning.
That’s part of what makes them so appealing. They don’t just represent Disney — they represent Disney at Christmas, which feels like its own separate experience entirely.
Magic Kingdom Is the Main Attraction for Collectors
Magic Kingdom naturally has the strongest lineup of holiday collectibles. One of the most talked-about items this season is the Christmas Tree Truck popcorn bucket, which is only available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Because it’s tied to a ticketed event, availability is limited, and guests often make it a priority as soon as they enter the park.
Another popular option is the Santa Sulley popcorn bucket, which puts a holiday spin on a familiar Pixar character. It’s festive without being over-the-top and easy to spot at select popcorn locations throughout the park.
There’s also the Mickey Toy Soldier Drummer sipper, which has become a favorite for guests who like holiday drinkware. While not technically a popcorn bucket, it lives in the same collectible category and fits right into Magic Kingdom’s Christmas atmosphere.
EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Join the Fun
EPCOT’s Mickey Elf popcorn bucket blends perfectly with the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. Between seasonal food booths and storytelling traditions from around the world, this bucket feels like a natural extension of the park’s holiday celebration.
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Gold Musical Rotating Tin popcorn bucket offers something a little different. Its classic design and built-in music give it a nostalgic feel that works well with the park’s retro holiday decorations.
Christmas at Disney World Goes Beyond Merchandise
While popcorn buckets get plenty of attention, they’re really just one piece of what makes Disney World special during the holidays. From Main Street, U.S.A. glowing with garlands to World Showcase celebrating global traditions, Christmas transforms the parks in a way no other season does.
That’s why these buckets matter. They’re souvenirs tied to a very specific feeling — one that disappears almost as quickly as it arrives.
