During the enchanting holiday season, there's no place quite like Walt Disney World's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to capture the magic of Christmas. The Resort transforms into a winter wonderland, and here are five key signs that will signal to you that the Grand Floridian is decked out for the festive season:
1. The Victorian Christmas Decor
Upon entering the lobby of the Grand Floridian, guests are greeted with an opulent Victorian-style Christmas decor that is synonymous with the elegance and grandeur of this Resort. Here’s what you can expect:
- Ornate Christmas Trees: Towering trees, each adorned with a harmonious blend of Victorian era ornaments, shimmering lights, and ribbons, take center stage. Each tree is uniquely styled to fit the Victorian theme, complete with festive toppers and surrounded by presents.
- Gingerbread House: A life-size gingerbread house, a holiday tradition, becomes the centerpiece. This edible architectural marvel not only delights the eye but also wafts delightful scents of cinnamon and spices throughout the lobby.
- Festive Garlands and Wreaths: Swags of pine and holly, interwoven with ribbon and ornaments, drape the grand staircases, railings, and even the balconies.
- Vintage Holiday Decor: Antique sleds, handmade stockings, and vintage holiday decor pieces add a touch of nostalgia and authenticity to the decor.
🔔 Note: The decor is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an immersive holiday experience that transports guests back in time to the era of Victorian Christmas celebrations.
2. Carolers and Entertainment
The auditory Christmas experience at the Grand Floridian includes:
- Victorian Carolers: Dressed in period attire, these carolers roam the lobbies and dining areas, filling the air with the melodies of classic holiday tunes.
- Interactive Entertainment: Beyond just listening, guests can join in a sing-along, which adds an interactive layer to the holiday festivities.
- Special Holiday Shows: From solo harpists to full orchestral performances, the Resort’s entertainment lineup brings the sounds of the season to life.
3. Seasonal Dining and Treats
The Grand Floridian’s culinary offerings get a festive makeover:
| Restaurant | Special Offerings |
|---|---|
| Victoria & Albert’s | An elegant tasting menu with holiday-inspired dishes. |
| CĂtricos | Celebratory holiday brunch with special seasonal flavors. |
| Garden View Tea Room | Afternoon tea service with Christmas treats and holiday teas. |
| Grand Floridian Cafe | Warm, comforting meals and festive desserts, like gingerbread pancakes. |
| Gasparilla Island Grill | Quick-service options with holiday-themed snacks and treats. |
🥄 Note: Remember to make reservations in advance as these dining experiences tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season.
4. Magical Holiday Storefronts
The Grand Floridian’s shops are transformed into a holiday marketplace:
- Unique Ornaments: Collections of ornaments with Disney’s Christmas twist or Victorian designs fill the shelves.
- Special Edition Holiday Treats: The shops offer exclusive treats and gift baskets, perfect for holiday gifting.
- Merchandise: From festive apparel to holiday-themed home decor, there’s something for every Disney enthusiast.
5. Festive Activities and Events
The Resort hosts a variety of holiday events, ensuring guests of all ages can partake in the Christmas spirit:
- Story Time: Special storytelling sessions for children, often involving Santa or Mrs. Claus themselves.
- Tree Lighting Ceremony: An annual event where the giant Christmas tree is lit up, accompanied by Christmas carols and festivities.
- Character Meet and Greets: Enhanced holiday meet and greets with Disney characters in festive attire.
- Workshops: From cookie decorating to holiday crafts, there are hands-on activities for all ages.
As the season of joy wraps up, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa remains a testament to the magic of Disney's Christmas. With its Victorian elegance, live entertainment, special dining options, enchanting shops, and holiday events, this Resort is not just a place to stay; it's an immersive, festive experience where every detail is crafted to instill the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re indulging in the holiday cuisine, shopping for unique gifts, or simply soaking in the ambiance, the Grand Floridian offers an unrivaled holiday getaway.
Is the holiday decor at the Grand Floridian available to see during all of December?
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Yes, the holiday decor is up from early November through the beginning of January, ensuring guests can enjoy the festive atmosphere for an extended period.
Do guests need to book in advance for the holiday dining experiences?
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Yes, due to the popularity of the holiday dining experiences, it’s highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, sometimes even months ahead.
Can non-resort guests visit the Grand Floridian to see the Christmas decorations?
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Yes, non-resort guests are welcome to explore the public areas of the Grand Floridian to enjoy the Christmas decor, though some events or dining might require a park ticket or reservation.
