Christmas has officially arrived at Walt Disney World, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios has welcomed a brand-new holiday experience that guests won’t want to overlook.
While visitors are busy enjoying festive decorations, seasonal entertainment, and their favorite attractions, Disney has introduced something special for those who love the history behind the magic.
The newest addition combines Christmas nostalgia, classic Disney characters, and a behind-the-scenes look at how the parks prepare for the most wonderful time of the year.
And the best part? Guests can enjoy this festive experience during their regular visit to Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Welcomes New Holiday Exhibit
On November 4, 2026, Disney officially opened “Disney Takes a Holiday” inside Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
According to WDWMAGIC, the seasonal exhibit celebrates Disney’s Christmas traditions through vintage photographs, holiday decorations, historical artwork, and themed displays.
Guests will notice the festive changes before entering the attraction. The exterior marquee now promotes the new exhibit, while holiday posters decorate the entrance.
Inside, visitors can explore several displays that tell the story of how Disney has celebrated Christmas throughout its history.
One of the most charming sections features a Christmas living room decorated with garland, string lights, and a red mailbox for letters to Santa.
Oversized envelopes from Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy are displayed throughout the scene. Goofy’s letter is even addressed to “Santy Claus.”
Another section explores Disneyland’s earliest holiday celebrations, dating back to 1955. Historical photographs show Christmas parades, toy soldiers, and other entertainment that helped establish Disney’s holiday traditions.
Disney Shares Behind-the-Scenes Christmas Secrets
The exhibit also reveals just how much work goes into decorating Walt Disney World for Christmas.
Disney’s Holiday Services team manages more than 50,000 decorations and over 800 themed Christmas trees.
Much of the installation happens overnight, allowing guests to arrive the next morning and discover a completely transformed theme park.
Visitors can also see an original Walt Disney Imagineering drawing from 1989 showing plans for a Christmas tree along Hollywood Boulevard.
Another display explains how Disney creates its famous artificial snow, known as “snoap,” using a soap-based mixture released through compressed air cannons.
It’s an interesting look at the creativity required to bring Christmas to life in sunny Florida.
Classic Disney Cartoons Return for Christmas
The celebration continues inside the Walt Disney Theater, where three classic animated shorts are playing.
Guests can enjoy On Ice (1935), Pluto’s Christmas Tree (1952), and The Art of Skiing (1941).
The presentation lasts approximately 25 minutes, offering families a chance to relax while enjoying familiar Disney characters.
“Disney Takes a Holiday” will remain available throughout the holiday season, although Disney hasn’t announced a specific closing date.
For guests visiting Hollywood Studios this Christmas, the exhibit offers a fun opportunity to discover Disney history while enjoying another festive addition to the park.
