As the holiday season approaches, Disney fans from around the world eagerly anticipate the magical transformation of Disney parks. Each year, Disney unveils its enchanting Christmas decorations, turning the parks into a festive wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages. In this blog post, we delve into the 2017 Christmas decor schedule at Disney, offering insights into when you can expect the parks to dazzle with holiday splendor, along with tips to make the most out of your holiday visit.
The 2017 Timeline for Disney’s Christmas Decor
Disney traditionally begins rolling out its Christmas decorations in the first week of November:
- November 2, 2017: The parks start setting up the iconic Christmas tree and lighting up Main Street, U.S.A.
- November 6, 2017: Most of the Christmas decorations are in place, including the festive lights and garlands.
- November 9, 2017: The first official Christmas celebration, often accompanied by a special ceremony or lighting event.
Key Attractions During Disney’s Christmas
During the Christmas season, Disney parks offer several must-see attractions:
- The Osborn Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights: A dazzling display of Christmas lights, moving and choreographed to music.
- Holiday Nighttime Parades: “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” at Disneyland and “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” at Disney World.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: A special ticketed event offering holiday magic, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets.
🎄 Note: Times and availability of events can change, always check Disney’s official schedule for the most current information.
Tips for Visiting Disney Parks at Christmas
To ensure a magical and less stressful visit during the holiday season:
- Arrive Early: Crowds are much larger during the holiday season, getting there early helps avoid the busiest times.
- Use FastPass+ or MaxPass: Pre-book attractions to skip long lines.
- Download the Disney App: Stay updated with live park information, entertainment schedules, and wait times.
- Consider the Weekdays: If possible, visit during the weekdays when the parks are less crowded.
What to Expect This Year
While Disney keeps some elements of their Christmas decor a secret, here’s what you can look forward to in 2017:
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Cinderella Castle Dream Lights | Features over 200,000 LED lights creating a breathtaking nighttime spectacle. |
| Holidays at Hollywood Studios | The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights transforms the Streets of America. |
| Special Character Meet-and-Greets | Santa, Mrs. Claus, and even characters in festive attire like Mickey in his Santa hat. |
| Frozen Holiday Wish | Elsa uses her powers to create a beautiful ice palace projection on Cinderella Castle. |
Enhancing Your Experience
To get the full Disney Christmas experience:
- Explore the Holiday Overlays: Many attractions receive holiday makeovers, like ‘it’s a small world’ and Haunted Mansion.
- Enjoy Festive Food: Parks offer seasonal treats from hot cocoa to gingerbread men and specialty holiday-themed dining.
- Holiday Shopping: Limited edition ornaments, holiday merchandise, and themed gifts abound.
🎅 Note: Pre-purchasing Disney merchandise from the parks or online can help you focus more on enjoying the experience.
In summary, Disney's 2017 Christmas decor will start the magic on November 2, with full decorations by November 6. Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in holiday wonder with special events like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, dazzling light displays, and festive parades. The key to an unforgettable Disney Christmas is planning, from using FastPass+ to arriving early. With this guide, you're set to make your Disney Christmas visit magical, ensuring that the enchanting world of Disney sparkles even more brightly during the holiday season.
When does Disney start decorating for Christmas?
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Disney parks traditionally start setting up their Christmas decorations around November 2nd, with most decorations in place by November 6th.
What special events can visitors attend during the Christmas season at Disney?
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Special events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, and various holiday parades.
Is there any way to avoid crowds during Christmas at Disney?
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Consider visiting on weekdays, arriving early, or attending special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for less crowded experiences.
What unique holiday merchandise can I find at Disney parks during Christmas?
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Visitors can find limited-edition Christmas ornaments, festive apparel, and themed Disney character plush toys, among other items.
How long do the Christmas decorations stay up?
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The decorations usually remain until early January, with New Year’s celebrations extending the holiday magic a bit longer.
