As the year rolls into the festive season, Walt Disney World transforms into a magical wonderland, filled with cheer, delightful attractions, and holiday-specific events. This transformation doesn’t happen overnight; the preparations for the holiday season begin weeks, sometimes months, in advance. For avid Disney fans, spotting the early signs of Christmas preparations can be an exciting treasure hunt. Here are five telltale signs that Walt Disney World is preparing for Christmas:
1. Early Installation of Holiday Decorations
While Christmas decorations traditionally go up in homes after Thanksgiving, at Walt Disney World, the process begins much earlier. Here’s how to spot the signs:
- Ornaments and Lights: You'll see large shipments of holiday ornaments, lights, and garlands arriving at the parks. During September, cast members might start hanging garlands and strings of lights in trees.
- Trees: The arrival and installation of massive Christmas trees, especially at Magic Kingdom, signal the start of the holiday season. The tree near Cinderella Castle, known as the Cinderella Castle Dreamlights, often begins its transformation in mid-October.
- Wreaths: The parks start hanging giant wreaths on the facades of stores, attractions, and hotels. These wreaths often incorporate Disney characters or themes, making them more than just festive decorations.
🎄 Note: Check the Disney Parks Blog or their social media for the official start date of holiday decorations each year.
2. Seasonal Attractions Begin to Appear
Disney adds its special touch by introducing or refreshing holiday-themed attractions. Here are some to look out for:
- Holiday Overlays: Rides like Jingle Cruise (Jungle Cruise with a Christmas twist) or Mickey's Magical Christmas Party start their seasonal preparations.
- Parades and Shows: Details about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are released, including new themes for parades like the iconic Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.
- Cast Member Costumes: You might catch a glimpse of cast members trying on their Christmas outfits or rehearsing holiday-themed skits and shows.
3. Holiday Merchandise Previews and Releases
Disney's merchandise strategy for the holidays is always a delight:
- Sneak Peeks: Disney often gives sneak peeks of new holiday merchandise, including special edition MagicBands, pins, plush, ornaments, and festive apparel.
- Online Releases: Before the physical stores are fully decked out, Disney often releases holiday items online, giving enthusiasts a chance to purchase exclusive items.
- Pop-Up Shops: Keep an eye out for temporary holiday pop-up shops appearing in the parks, signaling the arrival of the seasonal shopping extravaganza.
4. Increased Park Operations
Preparation for the holiday season involves significant operational adjustments:
- Extended Hours: Parks often announce extended park hours to accommodate holiday crowds and events. The schedule for these extended hours can be a clear sign.
- Event Announcements: Disney releases information about special holiday events like Candlelight Processional, Jollywood Nights, and parties in advance to give guests time to plan.
- Cast Member Training: An increase in cast member training sessions and rehearsals for holiday shows and parades indicates the season is nearing.
5. The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
EPCOT's transformation for the holiday season is particularly telling:
- Candlelight Processional: Details about narrators, musical performances, and dining packages for this iconic event are released.
- Global Holiday Celebrations: Countries in the World Showcase start to set up their unique holiday displays, and the Holiday Kitchens begin to offer seasonal treats.
- Lighting Installations: EPCOT's Spaceship Earth turns into an enormous holiday beacon, symbolizing the start of the holiday magic.
🌎 Note: The EPCOT Festival of the Holidays is usually announced in September or October, highlighting the first sign of global holiday preparations.
Observing these signs not only fuels the excitement for the holiday season but also shows the meticulous planning that goes into making Walt Disney World a festive spectacle. The transformation of the parks into a winter wonderland is a testament to Disney's dedication to creating magical experiences. The meticulous details, from decorations to events, all contribute to an enchanting environment that encapsulates the true spirit of Christmas.
When do Walt Disney World parks start decorating for Christmas?
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Ornaments, lights, and themed decorations begin appearing in late September to early October, with full decoration completed by mid-November.
What special events are held during the Christmas season at Disney World?
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Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, Jollywood Nights, and the Candlelight Processional are some of the highlights.
Can I buy holiday merchandise before the parks are fully decorated?
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Yes, Disney often releases holiday merchandise online before the parks are fully decorated, allowing fans to purchase items early.
How early should I plan my trip to Walt Disney World for Christmas?
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Given the popularity of the Christmas season at Disney, it’s advisable to book reservations 6-8 months in advance.
Are there any Christmas-specific ride overlays at Disney World?
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Yes, attractions like the Jungle Cruise undergo a holiday transformation, known as Jingle Cruise, with seasonal theming and decor.
