Each year, Walt Disney World Resort takes on a festive transformation that draws visitors from around the world. From mid-November through the end of December, all four theme parks, Disney Springs, and resort hotels are decorated for the holidays, offering a wide range of seasonal events and entertainment. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning for another winter trip, here's what you can expect during the holiday season—and a few practical tips to help you plan wisely.
Even though it might seem too early to start thinking about the holidays, Disney World already announced that tickets for the wildly popular Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Partygo on sale July 22.
Seasonal After-Hours Events at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios
Two separately ticketed nighttime events return this year with limited dates and unique experiences.
Disney Jollywood Nights (Hollywood Studios)
Held on 13 select evenings between November 8 and December 22, this event blends a Hollywood theme with holiday entertainment. Attendees can expect new stage shows like The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After. Classic offerings such as the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! f ireworks show and the ice skating show Glisten! Entry begins at 5:30 p.m., with festivities continuing until 12:30 a.m.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Magic Kingdom)
This long-running and extremely popular event takes place on 24 nights from November 7 through December 21. It includes a holiday-themed parade, fireworks show, character meet-and-greets with seasonal outfits, and complimentary cookies and hot cocoa. The party is a favorite with families and fans of traditional holiday entertainment.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_4qsadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_8qsadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframe Tip: If you're attending either event, you can enter the park with just the party ticket starting in the late afternoon—saving you from buying a full-day admission.
Holiday-Themed Attractions and Entertainment Across the Parks
Walt Disney World incorporates holiday elements into many of its regular offerings during this time.
Magic Kingdom: Main Street, U.S.A. is decorated with lights and wreaths, and attractions like the Jungle Cruise are temporarily re-themed (as the Jingle Cruise) with seasonal jokes and props. Cinderella Castle becomes the centerpiece of Frozen Holiday Surprise, a short nighttime show featuring Olaf and more than 100 Snowgies.
Hollywood Studios: Sunset Seasons Greetings turns the Hollywood Tower Hotel into a canvas for projections inspired by Toy Story, The Muppets, and other stories. A seasonal overlay is added to the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, and character dining at Minnie’s Holiday Dine returns.
Animal Kingdom: Visitors can view large, handcrafted animal puppets during the Merry Menagerie at Discovery Island. After dark, the Tree of Life Awakenings: Holiday Edition adds seasonal visuals and music.
EPCOT: The International Festival of the Holidays (Nov. 28–Dec. 30) showcases holiday traditions from around the world. Food and beverage booths called Holiday Kitchens, the Candlelight Processional with celebrity narrators, and activities like Olaf’s Holiday Scavenger Hunt are all part of the experience.
Tip: Use mobile ordering and Genie+. Consider ordering meals in advance using the Disney app to save time and stick to your budget. Genie+ may also help you maximize your park time by reducing wait times for popular rides.
Holiday Decor and Activities at Disney Springs and Resort Hotels
Disney Springs features a Christmas Tree Stroll with themed trees based on various Disney franchises, interactive elements for guests wearing MagicBand+, and seasonal menu items at many restaurants. Jock Lindsey’s Bar also gets a holiday makeover with festive decorations and limited-time offerings.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_5isadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_9isadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframe Resort hotels across the property are decorated with unique holiday touches. Some feature life-size gingerbread houses, while others offer themed treats and drinks. Even if you aren’t staying on property, it’s possible to visit the hotels to explore the decor and enjoy a meal or snack.
Where to see Santa Claus
Santa Claus appears throughout the resort during the holiday season. You can find him at each of the four theme parks and at Disney Springs through December 24. Availability and times can vary, so it's best to check the My Disney Experience app on the day of your visit.
When I have attended Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party in the past, Santa Claus' special appearance is extra magical thanks to the artificial snow. Make sure not to miss it!
Tips to save during your Disney holiday trip
A trip to Disney World during the holidays can be expensive, but there are a few ways to help manage the cost:
AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_62sadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#_R_a2sadkalhb5fiv5vddbH1_ iframeSpecial offers: Discounts of up to 20% on select Disney Resort hotel stays are available, and guests who book packages that include at least four-day tickets may receive a $100 Disney Dining and Shopping gift card. This offer is valid for travel dates between October 12 and December 25.
Bring your own snacks and water: Food costs can add up quickly, especially with seasonal treats. Carrying a refillable water bottle and a few snacks can save money and time.
Be strategic about tickets: If you plan to attend one of the after-hours events, you don’t necessarily need a regular park ticket that day. Event tickets allow entry a few hours before the official start time.
With careful planning and an understanding of what’s available, it’s possible to enjoy the magic of the season without feeling overwhelmed—or overspending.
Yahoo CreatorJeannette Kaplun | Hispana GlobalCreator of Hispana GlobalJeannette Kaplun, founder of Hispana Global, is an award-winning bilingual journalist, TV personality, speaker, and content creator and lifestyle expert. A busy mom of two, she lives in Miami.Follow
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