If you’re one of the many who eagerly anticipates the holiday season, there’s no better place to feel the magic of Christmas than at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Disney Parks are renowned for their festive decorations and spirited celebrations, and savvy visitors know that catching the early signs of Disney's Christmas preparations can add an extra layer of excitement to any visit. Here, we'll delve into the 5 early signs that indicate Disney has started decking the halls for Christmas 2020, ensuring you're among the first to witness the holiday transformation.
1. The Arrival of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Invitations
One of the first signals that Disney is gearing up for Christmas comes with the announcement of dates for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP). This exclusive, after-hours event is a time-honored tradition where guests experience festive activities, parades, and shows in Magic Kingdom. When Disney starts promoting MVMCP:
- You can expect tickets to go on sale, prompting excitement among enthusiasts.
- Promotional materials and social media posts often showcase glimpses of the decorations that will soon grace Main Street U.S.A. and other park areas.
2. Holiday Merchandise Appears in Stores
The sight of holiday-themed merchandise in Disney stores is a dead giveaway that the festive season is fast approaching. Early in October:
- Disney’s in-park stores start to feature holiday collections, from ornaments to apparel.
- These items not only serve as mementos but also highlight upcoming themes and characters that will be central to the park’s Christmas festivities.
3. Changes in Castle Decor
Castles are central to Disney’s thematic storytelling, and their transformation is a spectacular sight. Here are the signs:
- Scaffolding and construction barriers around Cinderella Castle or Sleeping Beauty Castle signal the beginning of their holiday makeover.
- The appearance of garlands, lights, and ice-like decorations on the castles are among the first visible signs of holiday preparation.
4. Special Holiday Entertainment Starts to Take Shape
Disney’s Christmas entertainment is legendary, and its setup begins early:
- Rehearsals for holiday-themed parades, stage shows, and nighttime spectaculars like the Candlelight Processional commence.
- You might spot performers in festive costumes or hear snippets of holiday music during your park visits.
⚠️ Note: Entertainment may be subject to change or modification due to health guidelines and safety protocols.
5. Outdoor Decorations Begin to Emerge
One of the most visually striking early signs of Disney’s Christmas celebrations is the appearance of outdoor decor:
- Main Street U.S.A. windows often get holiday themes first, followed by wreaths, giant ornaments, and garlands appearing across park entrances and around key landmarks.
- The installation of life-size nutcrackers, toy soldiers, and oversized wreaths start to pop up, transforming the park into a winter wonderland.
As the festive atmosphere envelops Disney Parks, the holiday spirit spreads not just to guests but to every cast member, performer, and visitor. From the twinkling lights that outline every tree to the enchanting melodies that fill the air, Disney's transformation into a Christmas haven is an experience to cherish. While each park has its own unique way of preparing for the holidays, these early signs are your guide to ensure you're in on the magic from the very beginning.
The joy of watching Disney deck the halls for Christmas 2020 is not just about the decorations but the community it builds, the memories it creates, and the anticipation it fosters. Whether you’re planning your holiday visit or just dreaming about it, keeping an eye out for these early signs ensures you won't miss a moment of the enchantment that Disney has planned.
When does Disney typically start its Christmas decorations?
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Disney Parks usually start transforming for Christmas right after Halloween, with preparations beginning in early November. However, early signs can be spotted even in late October.
Are the parks’ Christmas decorations permanent?
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No, they are up for the Christmas season, usually from early November until the start of the New Year, though exact dates can vary.
Can I visit Disney just to see the decorations?
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Absolutely! Many visitors plan their trips specifically to experience the Christmas decorations at Disney Parks. It’s a magical time to visit!
