There’s no denying that EPCOT transforms into something truly magical during the holiday season. Twinkling lights reflecting off the World Showcase Lagoon, the aroma of warm holiday treats filling the air, and live performances bringing joy to every corner — it’s the kind of atmosphere Disney fans dream about all year. The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is a highlight on Walt Disney World’s calendar, drawing thousands from across the globe.
It’s not just the décor that makes it special. Guests come for the celebrity-narrated Candlelight Processional, the spirited JOYFUL! performances, the World Showcase Storytellers sharing festive traditions, and the endless Holiday Kitchens offering international seasonal dishes. For families, scavenger hunts like Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition and the dazzling Glimmering Greenhouses overlay on Living with the Land make the event even more memorable.
But even with all of its charm, there’s a reality first-time visitors often underestimate: the crowds. And in 2025, those crowds may hit a breaking point.
The Dates Everyone’s Being Told to Avoid
This year’s festival runs from November 28 to December 30, 2025 — just over a month of holiday cheer. But experts say there are several days so packed that guests might want to rethink their plans entirely:
-
November 28 – Opening day, which also falls on Black Friday.
-
November 29–30 – The first full weekend of the event.
-
December 19–29 – The peak Christmas and New Year’s travel stretch.
-
All weekends – Fridays through Sundays see a surge in local traffic.
-
December 30 – The festival’s last day, which attracts massive crowds.
Why the Crush of People?
Opening day is a magnet for locals, vacationers, and influencers eager to be first. The following weekend draws food lovers sampling new menu items, while December’s final two weeks bring families traveling for the holidays. Even after Christmas, December 30 sees guests packing in one last visit before the festival wraps.
Is It Still Worth Going?
Absolutely — if you plan smart. Book Candlelight Processional dining packages early, aim for weekdays before mid-December, and arrive right at park opening to tackle attractions before the crowds build. If your visit lands on a red-flag date, consider starting the day at EPCOT and then hopping to another park in the afternoon before the real surge begins.
