As the festive spirit of Christmas begins to spread, Disney World enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the announcement of the holiday decor schedule. This year, the magical kingdom in Florida has unveiled its festive plan, promising to transform the parks into a winter wonderland starting in November. Here's an in-depth look at what visitors can expect from the 2018 Christmas festivities at Disney World.
When Does Disney World Start Decorating for Christmas?
Disney World traditionally begins its holiday transformation in early November. For 2018, the decor will start:
- Magic Kingdom - November 2
- Epcot - November 16
- Hollywood Studios - November 9
- Animal Kingdom - November 30
These dates can be significant for guests who want to see the parks in their Christmas attire without the heavy crowds that come later in the month.
Holiday Decorations at Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom, known for its fairytale charm, steps up its game during the Christmas season. Here are some highlights:
- Cinderella Castle - Adorned with sparkling lights and an impressive 80-foot tall Christmas tree.
- Main Street, U.S.A. - Featuring garlands, wreaths, and a charming miniature Christmas village at the Emporium.
- Holiday Snow - Several times a day, snow (actually soap flakes) falls on Main Street, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
❄️ Note: Disney creates a snow-like effect with biodegradable soap flakes, ensuring a magical experience without harming the environment.
The Joy of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays
EPCOT transforms during the International Festival of the Holidays, showcasing holiday traditions from around the world:
- World Showcase - Each country presents its unique holiday customs, decorations, and stories.
- Candlelight Processional - A musical retelling of the Christmas story, accompanied by a celebrity narrator and the Disney Voices of Liberty.
- Holiday Kitchens - Experience festive food and drink from global kitchens set up throughout the park.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Gets Festive
At Hollywood Studios, the Christmas season brings a touch of vintage Hollywood glamour:
- Sunset Boulevard - Adorned with oversized ornaments, bows, and streamers, creating a backdrop fit for any holiday film.
- Hollywood Santa - A visit with Santa in his vintage-style sleigh.
- Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! - A holiday nighttime show featuring music, fireworks, special effects, and characters from favorite Disney holiday stories.
Animal Kingdom’s Holiday Celebration
While Animal Kingdom keeps its decorations more subtle, the park doesn’t shy away from the holiday spirit:
- Expedition Everest - With festive lighting and decorations, enhancing the mystical journey.
- Holiday Wreaths - Themed decorations that respect the park’s natural aesthetic.
- Merry Menagerie - A nighttime procession of puppets featuring animals celebrating the holidays in their unique way.
🐾 Note: Animal Kingdom's approach to decorations ensures they blend seamlessly with the park's theme, preserving the natural habitat's ambiance.
Park Hopping for the Ultimate Christmas Experience
| Park | Decor Theme | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | Fairytale Christmas | Cinderella Castle transformed |
| EPCOT | Cultural Celebration | World Showcase holiday traditions |
| Hollywood Studios | Retro Hollywood | Vintage Santa and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! |
| Animal Kingdom | Nature’s Festivities | Merry Menagerie procession |
This summary table provides a quick overview for those planning to visit multiple parks to experience different aspects of Disney’s holiday magic.
As we wrap up our journey through Disney World's 2018 Christmas decor schedule, the anticipation for the holiday season grows. Each park offers a unique festive experience, tailored to its theme and character. Whether it's the enchanting snow on Main Street, the global traditions at EPCOT, Hollywood glamour, or the serene celebrations at Animal Kingdom, Disney World transforms into a magical holiday destination, ensuring every visitor leaves with cherished memories of this festive time.
When is the best time to visit Disney World for Christmas?
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The optimal time to visit for Christmas decorations is from early to mid-December. This period offers beautiful decorations with relatively fewer crowds than the week of Christmas or New Year’s.
Can I see all parks in one day during Christmas time?
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While possible, it’s challenging. Each park’s unique holiday offerings deserve exploration. Plan for at least two or three days to fully enjoy each park’s festive ambiance.
Do I need special tickets for the holiday shows or parades?
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Most holiday shows are included with your park admission, but certain events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party require a separate ticket.
How early should I start planning my trip?
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At least 6 months in advance. Christmas at Disney World is popular, so early booking for hotels, park reservations, and dining ensures you get your preferences.
Are there special holiday dining options available?
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Yes, many restaurants offer special holiday menus. Popular spots like Be Our Guest or Crystal Palace fill up quickly, so make reservations early.
