There is nothing better than spending the most magical time of the year in the most magical of places. I mean nothing! It's my absolute favorite time to be at Walt Disney World. The trees, the lights, the castle. Oh the castle… it's the most wonderful thing of them all. So much Christmas, so much magic and so many reasons to go to Walt Disney World at Christmas time.
Christmas at Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is usually one of our first stops on every Disney Trip. There is nothing like crossing under the train bridge and looking down Main Street USA and seeing Cinderella Castle for the first time. It's magical everyday of the year but during Christmas the castle is decorated with thousands of icey lights and it's just the most breathtaking scene. Going to Magic Kingdom to see the castle at night is a MUST do. Words can't describe how amazing it is. In addition to the castle becoming a sparkling magical wonder, there are special treats, Christmas themed shows from the Main St. Performers and decorations that will make you smile all over the park.
Another favorite event happening at the Magic Kingdom is Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. This special ticketed event runs on select nights throughout November and December, starting November 8th. It's a can't miss celebration of Christmas like no one but Disney could do. The party includes special characters, Holiday Wishes firework shows, the Once Upon A Christmas Parade and more.
Christmas at Epcot
Christmas at Epcot is so much fun! Starting November 18th you can experience the International Festival of the Holidays. I just love walking the World Showcase learning about and experiencing the different holiday traditions all over the world. Not only will each country have special entertainment that celebrates that country's holiday heritage, there will also be:
- Holiday Kitchens with special holiday treats from around the globe.
- Chip and Dale's Tree Spree Scavenger Hunt where you can purchase a map for 6.99 + tax and travel around the World Showcase searching for the chipmunks and their ornaments. When you are done you can return your completed map for a surprise.
- Illuminations will get a holiday finale.
- The Candlelight Processional will run from November 22-December 30. This retelling of the Christmas story with a celebrity narrator, 50 piece orchestra and choir is not to be missed.
Christmas at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney's Hollywood studios is also getting in on the holiday fun. Head on over to Toy Story Land for some festive fun in Andy's Backyard including holiday songs on Alien Swirling Saucers. When your done venture over to Once Upon a Toy Shop to visit Santa. He'll be there from November 10th through December 24th. Santa Goofy takes over from December 25th through 31st.
When the sun goes down be sure to check out Sunset Seasons Greetings at the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Your favorite Disney characters will be projected onto the hotel and will be sharing stories of holiday magic. I hear there will also be some cool laser effects and SNOW! Snow in Orlando? Now that's some serious Disney magic. Also don't leave without seeing Jingle Bell, Jingle Bam! A night time holiday spectacular with projections, fireworks, special effects and holiday music.
Christmas at Animal Kingdom
Not only is the tree right at the park entrance amazing. But Animal Kingdom is also getting into the holiday spirit this year. New this year is the inclusion of Diwali, the holiday Festival of Lights in India, to the Up! A Great Bird Adventure starting November 8th.
Christmas At Disney Springs
The parks aren't the only place to get in on the Disney Christmas magic. Disney Springs has some holiday fun happening as well. The Christmas Tree Trail is a must do with it's custom Disney themed decorated Christmas trees. You can also visit Santa at Santa's Chalet from November 8th through December 24th and then Santa Goofy from December 25th through December 31st. And you can search for Stitch during Stitch's Holiday Gift Hunt.
Christmas at Walt Disney World Resorts
The resorts at Walt Disney World are also decorated and magical during the holiday season. While most will have decorations and trees in their lobbies there are a few resorts you MUST take a trip to see.
- In the lobby of the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa there is a HUGE life size gingerbread house, which also doubles as a bake shop where you can buy holiday treats. Don't miss the Hidden Mickeys on the house.
- At Disney's Beach Club Resort there is a life size edible spinning carousel.
- Over at Disney's Yacht Club there is a holiday village with miniature trains.
- The campers at Fort Wilderness Campground go all out with Christmas decorations on their campsites.
A Word About Christmas Day
While the Christmas season at Walt Disney World is one of the most magical times to visit, avoid Christmas Day if you can. The parks are filled to capacity and it's just not fun, unless you like shoulder to shoulder crowds and waiting in line for hours. Fill the day with fun activities at your resort, swim if the weather is nice enough, visit other resorts, and plan your meals outside the parks.
No matter what you do at Walt Disney World during Christmas it's sure to be the most magical time in the most magical place.
Are you ready to meet the Mouse and have the most magical Christmas vacation EVER! Email me cara@magicaldestinationstravel.com or fill ou this form for a free quote. I can help you plan your trip to the most magical world at no extra cost to you!
