Disney Dining Serving up the latest Disney Eats, Treats, News, and More!
It’s only October, but at Walt Disney World Resort, the holiday magic has already begun! While guests are getting their fill of pumpkins, candy, and all things Halloween, Disney is already preparing for Christmas.
Credit: Disney
For those who were at EPCOT on the evening of September 30, there was a little sneak peek into the future.
According to Ashley Carter’s post on X, “World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT is blocked off tonight as filming is underway for the holidays.”
World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT is blocked off tonight as filming is underway for the holidays. pic.twitter.com/YH14apROn9
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) October 1, 2024
This might seem early, but Disney is known for its elaborate holiday offerings, and the parks need plenty of time to get everything ready for the festive season. Seeing Christmas decorations and hearing holiday music in late September is a unique experience for Disney guests who might not expect the holidays to come this early. But that’s part of the charm—Disney loves to surprise and delight its visitors.
Disney World is renowned for its holiday transformations. Every year, the parks are decked out in sparkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive décor, bringing a magical winter wonderland to Florida. And though Halloween is still ongoing with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney’s team is already working hard to ensure that the Christmas season will be just as memorable.
Credit: Disney
One of the highlights of Disney’s holiday season is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, held at Magic Kingdom. This after-hours event is beloved by families for its Christmas parades, fireworks, and special character meet-and-greets.
Over at EPCOT, the International Festival of the Holidays brings Christmas traditions from around the world to life, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios lights up with its Sunset Seasons Greetings, where the Tower of Terror is transformed into a holiday display. Each park has its unique touch on the holiday spirit, making Disney World a must-visit destination during this time of year.
So why is Disney already filming for Christmas in September? Each year, Disney produces holiday specials that air on TV during the season, showcasing the magic of the parks decked out for Christmas. This year, the filming began on September 30, the earliest start in recent memory. It’s also possible this is for a Holiday Advertisement of some sort.
Guests at EPCOT that evening had the rare opportunity to witness the transformation firsthand as crews set up decorations, filmed festive performances, and started bringing the holiday magic to life.
Credit: Disney
Seeing Christmas in September is always a little surreal. You’re walking through a park that’s still covered in fall leaves and pumpkins, and suddenly you hear Christmas carols or see twinkling lights in the distance. It’s this blend of seasons that adds an extra layer of fun to a Disney visit. Where else can you experience Halloween and Christmas within the same month?
For those lucky enough to witness this early filming, it’s like getting a sneak peek into what’s coming next. The full holiday transformation of the parks will be completed in early November, just after Halloween wraps up. But this early start to filming serves as a reminder that the holidays are never far away at Disney World.
Keep in mind that the Holiday decorations are not out during the day and were only used for filming.
Whether you’re excited for Halloween or eagerly awaiting Christmas, Disney World offers a little bit of everything during the fall. From spooky fun to holiday cheer, the parks have something for everyone. And with holiday filming already underway, it’s clear that Disney is ready to make this holiday season the most magical one yet.
