Discover When Disney Dresses Up for Christmas 2019
The Christmas season at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2019 was truly magical, with each park decorating itself to reflect the festive spirit of the holidays. These renowned parks transform into winter wonderlands, combining classic holiday decor with Disney's unique magic, making it a must-visit time for any Disney enthusiast.
The Magic Begins
The holiday season traditionally kicks off around mid-November and lasts until the first week of January, giving visitors plenty of time to experience the Christmas festivities at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World. The parks are decked out with:
- Giant Christmas trees adorned with Disney-themed ornaments.
- Twinkling lights and wreaths covering every possible area.
- Snowfall in certain areas, despite Florida and California's typically warm weather.
Parades and Shows
Christmas wouldn't be complete without Disney's famous parades and shows tailored for the season:
- "A Christmas Fantasy Parade" at Disneyland: It features favorite Disney characters dressed in holiday costumes, along with spectacular floats and dancing toy soldiers.
- "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade" at Walt Disney World: This parade showcases Santa Claus, Disney characters in Victorian-inspired attire, and is exclusive to ticket holders of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
The nighttime shows become even more dazzling with performances like:
- "Believe... In Holiday Magic" Fireworks Show at Disneyland, complete with artificial snowfall.
- "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" at Hollywood Studios, offering a holiday musical spectacular with special effects and projections.
Holiday Decorations
Each park has its own unique decorative elements:
- Magic Kingdom features a 65-foot tall Christmas tree on Main Street, U.S.A., adorned with ornaments and lights.
- Disney California Adventure hosts the Festival of Holidays, with holiday decor at Buena Vista Street to pay homage to different cultural celebrations.
Themes and Attractions
Various attractions receive a holiday makeover:
- It’s a Small World Holiday at Disneyland, where the ride becomes a tribute to winter holidays around the world.
- The Haunted Mansion turns into "Haunted Mansion Holiday" at Disneyland, featuring decorations and characters from Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas".
Special Events
In addition to the regular festivities, Disney Parks host exclusive holiday events:
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World, including character meet-and-greets, holiday treats, and access to holiday-themed attractions.
- Candlelight Procession at both parks, where celebrities narrate the Christmas story accompanied by a choir.
Dining and Shopping
Disney's dining locations offer holiday-themed menus, and stores become a treasure trove of festive merchandise:
- Holiday-themed meals and treats like gingerbread cookies, hot cocoa, and even snowman cheeseburgers.
- Unique shopping experiences with holiday exclusives, including ornaments, Mickey and Minnie plush toys in Santa attire, and holiday clothing.
🎄 Note: Most special events require separate tickets or reservations. Planning and booking early can help ensure availability.
The wonder of Disney at Christmas is not just about the decorations or events; it's about the warmth, the memories created, and the joy experienced by visitors. The parks truly dress up for the season, offering an experience that blends nostalgia with festive fun.
Disney doesn't simply put up decorations; it invites guests into a world where holiday magic comes alive through characters, music, lights, and an atmosphere that feels like a dream. From the first sight of Cinderella Castle trimmed for Christmas to the last note of the holiday music filling the air, each visit is filled with unique, joyful moments.
What are some must-see attractions during the holiday season at Disney?
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Some must-see attractions include “It’s a Small World Holiday” for its delightful holiday transformation, “Haunted Mansion Holiday” at Disneyland, and the holiday parades and fireworks.
When should I plan my visit to Disney during Christmas?
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The holiday season at Disney starts around mid-November and ends in early January. The least crowded time is usually right after Thanksgiving, but booking early is recommended due to the popularity of the holiday season.
Are there any special dining options during Christmas at Disney?
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Yes, Disney offers a wide array of holiday-themed dining experiences from festive meals at signature restaurants to special snacks available park-wide.
What are the best strategies for avoiding crowds during Disney’s Christmas events?
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To avoid crowds, consider attending the parks on weekdays, utilizing Disney’s FastPass+ or Disneyland’s MaxPass to skip lines, and booking early morning or late-night dining reservations to make the most of your day.