The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, transforms into a winter wonderland each year, with an abundance of Christmas decorations that start appearing as early as mid-November. Here are five magical dates that mark the beginning of the holiday season at WDW, each offering unique opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the festive spirit:
November 6: Christmas Tree Setup at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The Grand Floridian is known for setting the festive mood with one of the largest and most intricately decorated Christmas trees in Walt Disney World. Here's what you can expect:
- Setup Begins: Watch the installation of the massive tree, often happening right after the Halloween decorations are taken down.
- Decoration: The tree is decorated with special ornaments, including some handcrafted by Disney cast members.
🪶 Note: Check with Disney's event calendar for the exact tree setup time as it can vary slightly from year to year.
November 9: Magic Kingdom Begins Christmas Decorations
As the hub of all things Disney, Magic Kingdom does not disappoint with its festive transformation:
- Castle Lighting: Cinderella Castle is adorned with lights, creating a stunning visual each evening.
- Parades: "Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party" includes special holiday parades.
November 12: EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Begins
EPCOT dives into the holiday spirit with:
- Holiday Kitchens: Countries around the World Showcase provide holiday-themed food and beverages.
- Candlelight Procession: A retelling of the Christmas story with celebrity narrators.
November 28: Disney Springs Holiday Tree Stroll
Here, holiday enthusiasts can:
- Tree Stroll: Walk through themed Christmas trees from all Disney movies.
- Santa’s Workshop: Meet Santa and enjoy holiday crafts and treats.
December 1: Full Transformation
By this date, every nook and cranny of WDW is decked out for the holidays:
- Oswald's Holiday Setup: At Disney's Hollywood Studios, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit kicks off the holidays with great fanfare.
- Jingle Bell Jamboree: This is when the full roster of holiday shows and attractions come alive.
These dates mark significant moments when Walt Disney World truly becomes a magical winter destination. Each park offers its unique take on holiday cheer, ensuring that every visit is filled with enchantment and memories. As you plan your trip, consider these dates for an experience that encapsulates the spirit of the season, blending Disney magic with the warmth of holiday celebrations.
Key Points to Remember:
- Plan your visit around these dates for the best experience of Disney’s holiday magic.
- Check Disney’s official website for any changes or special events scheduled around these dates.
- Expect large crowds; consider getting park passes and planning your itinerary in advance.
What is the best time to visit WDW for Christmas?
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The best time to visit Walt Disney World for Christmas is typically from late November to early December, as this is when the parks are decked out but before the crowds swell in the weeks before Christmas.
Do you need to book extra activities for the holiday season?
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Yes, many holiday-themed events like “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” or dining experiences require advanced booking due to high demand.
Can I see fireworks during the holidays at Disney World?
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Yes, special holiday fireworks displays like “Holiday Wishes” at Magic Kingdom and “Epcot Forever” with holiday projections are typically part of the festivities.
What are some special holiday events exclusive to WDW?
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Events like the Candlelight Procession at EPCOT and the Jingle Bell Jamboree at Hollywood Studios are unique holiday experiences offered only at WDW during this time.
How long does the holiday season last at WDW?
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The holiday season typically begins in mid-November and extends until the first week of January, with full decorations staying up until New Year’s Day.
