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Disney World at Christmas: a fairy tale for adults and children

11/25/2023

THE MAGIC OF Disney World at Christmas

The Enchantment of Disney World at Christmas

A beloved destination for Mickey fans every year, Disney World at Christmas is even more spectacular: why not spend the holiday season there? In the famed theme park, Christmas and fairy tales merge, creating a Disney magic that's extra special with stunning decorations, unique events, delectable foods, and more, starting from November 11th to December 31st. Many activities are included with your daily ticket, such as seasonal menus, Christmas decorations, and live shows.

Also noteworthy is that, starting this year, there are also two extra paid events included with the aforementioned daily ticket. One more reason to spend the holidays at Disney World, delighting both adults and children alike.

Disney World: Scheduled Attractions for Christmas 2023

To experience the magic of Christmas at Disney World, start at Magic Kingdom. Here you'll find Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a special ticketed event on select evenings in November and December 2023.

Magic Kingdom has an exciting new surprise this year. For the first time, you can witness the “Frozen Holiday Wish” (inspired by the Frozen movie) that will illuminate Cinderella’s Castle with lights and projections. This experience is available both during regular park hours and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

But the novelties don’t stop there. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the premiere of the Disney Jollywood Nights Christmas Party is introduced, another ticketed celebration dedicated to Christmas filled with fun, music, and Disney characters in holiday attire.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the return of Sunset Seasons Greetings is also anticipated, a projection show that transforms the Hollywood Holiday Tower Hotel into various scenes, such as a snowy Arendelle, a Muppets gingerbread house, a Toy Story hotel, and a “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” village. This show alternates with the Beacon of Magic, another projection effect that lights up the tower at night.

Disney World Events at Christmas 2023

The Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party, a ticketed extra anticipated to be very popular, offers sweets, hot chocolate, and cookies in a reserved area to enjoy special fireworks.

Also, don’t miss the new Disney World event, Disney Jollywood Nights, taking place on select evenings from November 11th to December 20th at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Themed locations await visitors at this after-hours event that embraces a cheerful atmosphere with a host of special performances.

For the first time at Disney World during Christmas, guests will have the opportunity to experience the Tip Top Club in the courtyard of the Hollywood Tower Hotel over a cocktail. New entertainment offerings include a show hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy and a “Nightmare Before Christmas” karaoke. Disney Jollywood Nights will also feature the return of the nighttime spectacular Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, appearances by nostalgic characters, and special holiday treats.

Especially designed for adults is the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, a holiday twist on the park's popular food festivals, kicking off on November 24th. It’s not just about the flavors of the season but also showcases performances and concerts. The much-loved annual Candlelight Processional returns with daily readings of the Christmas story by celebrity narrators accompanied by a full choir and orchestra.

And you don't need a park ticket to discover all the festive events at Disney Springs. The Christmas Tree Stroll is an established tradition featuring over a dozen themed trees dedicated to beloved films, attractions, and Disney characters, and it's completely free.

Disney World at Christmas 2023: Tips for the Best Experience

The renowned theme park is very crowded at Christmas: how to fully enjoy the experience without being overwhelmed by the crowd and making the most of what Disney World has to offer? Here are some practical tips.

1. Book Before Your Visit. Visitors should book their Disney Park Pass and Advanced Dining Reservations in advance, especially around Christmas.
2. Use Disney Genie. It's recommended to use the free Disney Genie service through the My Disney Experience app for personalized itineraries.
3. Participate in Virtual Queues. For attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy and TRON Lightcycle, it's advised to join the virtual queues.
4. Arrive Early. Plan to arrive early and take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry to reduce waiting times.
5. Know Your Transport Options. Visitors should be familiar with all available transportation options and plan for extra travel time.
6. Book Parades and Shows in Advance. For special Christmas events like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, it's advisable to book ahead for parades and fireworks.
7. Dine During Off-Peak Hours. Guests can avoid peak meal times and use mobile ordering to save time.
8. Set a Souvenir Budget. Consider setting a budget for souvenirs and surprise children with gifts purchased in advance.
9. Watch Fireworks Outside the Parks. To avoid the crowds, consider watching the fireworks from outside the parks.
10. Maintain Patience: In crowded situations, keeping your cool is key to fully enjoying your experience at Disney World, especially at Christmas time when you will encounter a lot of people. But it's absolutely worth it!