The holiday season at Walt Disney World is a time of enchantment, filled with twinkling lights, heartwarming entertainment, and festive treats. Classic favorites return each year alongside new surprises, creating a celebration that’s both timeless and ever-evolving.
Whether you’re a seasoned park-goer or planning your first holiday visit, here are ten reasons to include Walt Disney World in your festive plans:
10) Resort Decorations – Various Locations
Walt Disney World resorts shine during the holidays with spectacular Christmas trees, themed décor, and cozy seasonal touches. From the rustic charm of Wilderness Lodge to the tropical cheer at the Polynesian Village Resort, each property offers a unique holiday atmosphere.
Guests can explore these enchanting displays by staying at a resort or booking a dining reservation. It’s a festive, photo-worthy way to experience Disney magic beyond the parks.
9) The Christmas Tree Stroll – Disney Springs
The Christmas Tree Stroll at Disney Springs transforms the shopping and dining district into a winter wonderland. Dozens of beautifully decorated, themed trees are scattered throughout the area, turning your visit into a merry scavenger hunt.
As you stroll, look for magical snowfall and festive live entertainment.
8) Echo Lake – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios gets a retro holiday glow at Echo Lake, where the towering Christmas tree sparkles in the water, surrounded by floating oversized ornaments. The lights reflect off the lake at night, creating an unforgettable scene.
Don’t forget to snap a selfie with Santa Gertie—DINOSAUR Gertie gets into the spirit with her festive holiday hat.
7) For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration – Holiday Finale
This fan-favorite stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios features a special holiday finale during the season. Anna, Elsa, and Olaf bring even more cheer with a heartwarming addition that includes seasonal songs, snowy surprises, and a few magical moments.
It’s a great way to take a break and enjoy holiday cheer in the form of music and storytelling.
6) Gingerbread Displays – Select Resorts and EPCOT
Several Disney resorts and EPCOT showcase elaborate gingerbread creations that are as impressive as they are delicious-smelling. In recent years:
- EPCOT featured a stunning gingerbread version of Spaceship Earth, decked out with LED lights and mini-shows.
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort hosted a working gingerbread carousel.
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort often displays a gingerbread Cinderella Castle.
These edible art pieces include lights, motion, music, and hidden Mickeys galore.
Note: The iconic Grand Floridian gingerbread house will not be on display this year due to ongoing lobby renovations—but don’t worry, you’ll still find plenty of sugary magic elsewhere on property.
5) Santa Claus Sightings – All Parks & Disney Springs
You’ll find Santa Claus spreading cheer across all four theme parks and Disney Springs. Each location offers its own spin on the tradition:
- At EPCOT, enjoy global versions of Santa and holiday figures, including Italy’s La Befana and Norway’s Barn Santa.
- At Disney Springs, visit with Santa and share a jolly moment at his marketplace near Disney’s Pin Traders, before he takes flight on Christmas Eve.
Photos with Santa are available in select locations—check the My Disney Experience app for times and locations.
4) Merry Menagerie – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Discovery Island comes alive with the Merry Menagerie, a whimsical winter celebration featuring life-sized animal puppets operated by talented performers. Polar bears, penguins, foxes, and more roam the land, offering interactive photo ops and joyful surprises.
These handcrafted puppets are a crowd favorite, so much so that Disney even released special merchandise inspired by them!
3) EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
From November 28 through December 30, EPCOT hosts a festive celebration that showcases holiday traditions from around the world. Enjoy:
- Holiday Kitchens serving seasonal bites and sips.
- Storytellers sharing customs and folklore from each World Showcase pavilion.
- Live music, including performances around the World Showcase, and the Voices of Liberty performing holiday classics.
It’s a cultural and culinary journey wrapped in holiday sparkle.
2) Main Street, U.S.A. – Magic Kingdom
Main Street, U.S.A. is a holiday postcard come to life. With glowing garlands, wreaths, and the towering Christmas tree, it sets the perfect scene for the most magical time of year.
Music, character appearances, and seasonal treats round out the experience—don’t miss the classic photo op with Cinderella Castle twinkling in the distance.
1) Cinderella Castle Holiday Projections – Magic Kingdom
Cinderella Castle dazzles guests each evening with dynamic holiday projections that rotate throughout the night. These modern visuals are just breathtaking.
Snowy patterns, wrapped gifts, and warm holiday scenes light up the castle every 15 minutes, creating a beautiful backdrop for festive photos, especially with the shimmering reflection from the castle moat.
Plan Your Magical Holiday Visit
Walt Disney World during the holidays is a heartwarming, unforgettable experience. Whether you’re tasting global holiday flavors, snapping selfies with Santa, or admiring twinkling lights, there’s magic around every corner.
The festive season runs through December 30, so book early, check for updates in the My Disney Experience app, and prepare to make some merry memories that will last a lifetime.
