The festive season at Walt Disney World in 2018 brings joy and magic to visitors from around the globe. As the year winds down and the spirit of Christmas flourishes, Walt Disney World doesn't just put up holiday decorations; it transforms into a winter wonderland that captivates the hearts of both children and adults. Let's embark on a journey through the enchanting transformation of Walt Disney World during Christmas 2018, where each park, hotel, and entertainment district gets its unique touch of holiday cheer.
Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Transformation
The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is perhaps the most iconic park for holiday celebrations. Here’s what you could expect:
- Cinderella Castle adorned with twinkling lights and spectacular projections. The iconic structure becomes the centerpiece for the entire park’s Christmas festivities.
- “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party”, a separate-ticket event offering unique parade experiences, special fireworks, and complimentary treats. This party kicked off on November 8, 2018, and ran through December 21, 2018.
- “Jingle Cruise”, where the Jungle Cruise gets a festive makeover with holiday decorations and humorous holiday-themed dialogues.
🎄 Note: FastPass+ is not available for the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, but some attractions might have shorter wait times.
Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays
Epcot hosts a vibrant celebration known as the International Festival of the Holidays, celebrating various Christmas traditions from around the world. Here’s a look into what made Epcot’s 2018 Christmas season so special:
- Holiday Kitchens scattered around the World Showcase, offering holiday dishes from different cultures.
- Candlelight Processional, featuring celebrity narrators telling the Christmas story with a full orchestra and choir.
- “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” with a special holiday finale called IllumiNations: Holiday Tag, featuring a new song and dazzling fireworks.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - Christmas at Hollywood Boulevard
Disney’s Hollywood Studios captures the essence of a bygone era with its Christmas decorations:
- “Sunset Seasons Greetings”, a nightly show on the Tower of Terror featuring holiday scenes projected onto the building.
- The Hollywood Christmas Parade led by Santa Claus and featuring characters like the Fab Five and beloved Disney villains.
- Voice Toy Story Land, which was new for 2018, got its festive spin with holiday-themed elements in the attractions.
Animal Kingdom’s Christmas
Although not as traditionally festive as other parks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom adds its unique touch to the holiday season:
- Tree of Life Awakenings featuring holiday-themed scenes in its nightly show.
- Diwali Celebration, celebrating the Festival of Lights with various cultural activities and decorations.
- Holiday-themed decorations in the Discovery Island section, including festive wreaths and decor.
Disney Springs: The Pulse of Holiday Energy
Disney Springs, Walt Disney World’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district, pulses with holiday energy:
- A towering Christmas Tree Trail showcasing uniquely themed trees from Disney’s most popular movies and characters.
- Santa’s Chalet, where guests can meet Santa Claus and take memorable photos.
- A range of holiday performances, from carolers to gospel choirs, adding to the festive atmosphere.
As the holiday season approached in 2018, Walt Disney World didn't hold back in creating an unforgettable experience. From the heart of Magic Kingdom to the global celebration at Epcot, each park contributed to a tapestry of holiday cheer. Guests were treated to exclusive events, magical parades, dazzling lights, and a sprinkle of Disney magic that transformed the parks into a winter wonderland. This festive season was an ode to the joy of Christmas, making every moment special and every visit a story worth telling.
When does Walt Disney World start its Christmas celebrations?
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Walt Disney World begins its Christmas celebrations with the debut of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which in 2018 started on November 8th. The rest of the decorations and events start appearing from mid-November to early December.
Are there any additional fees for holiday events at Disney World?
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Yes, some special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party require an additional ticket. Regular park admission allows access to holiday decorations and select festive activities, but exclusive events often require a separate payment.
What’s the best park to visit during Christmas at Walt Disney World?
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Each park offers a unique experience. However, for the most traditional Christmas setting, Magic Kingdom stands out with its festive parade, decorations, and the nightly fireworks show. Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays is exceptional for experiencing global holiday traditions.
