As the crisp air of autumn begins to fade into the cool whispers of winter, the enchanting Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, starts to prepare for one of the most magical times of the year: Christmas. For fans of the festive season, the signs that the resort is gearing up for the holiday extravaganza are subtle but exciting, signaling the imminent arrival of holiday cheer. Here are five early signs that Walt Disney World is decking the halls for Christmas 2023.
1. The Appearance of Holiday Merchandise
Disney has a knack for transforming every season into something special, and Christmas is no exception. One of the earliest signs that the holiday season is about to unfold at Walt Disney World is the availability of holiday merchandise.
- Holiday-themed clothing: Sweaters, shirts, and accessories with iconic Disney characters in festive attire begin to appear in stores.
- Ornaments: Disney-themed Christmas ornaments are a big hit, with new designs released each year.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets: The exclusive tickets for this event, which marks the kickoff of the holiday season, go on sale well in advance.
2. Early Planning for Christmas Parties
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a cherished event where guests can enjoy magical parades, meet and greets with festive characters, and snow on Main Street U.S.A. Here are the telltale signs:
- Announcement of Dates: Disney Parks typically release the dates for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in early summer.
- Booking Opens: Once the dates are set, reservations for this special event open, encouraging early planning.
3. Transformation of Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is at the heart of Disney’s Christmas celebrations, and its transformation begins well before the actual festivities:
- Castle Decorations: Cinderella Castle starts to shimmer with colorful lighting and garlands.
- Main Street, U.S.A: Shops along Main Street begin to showcase holiday decorations, reflecting the charm of yesteryears.
💡 Note: Keep an eye out for the moment when Cinderella Castle gets its magical holiday makeover, usually around early November.
4. Christmas-Themed Food Items
The culinary delights at Disney during Christmas are legendary. Here are some ways Walt Disney World teases its guests with festive flavors:
- Holiday Treats: Special snacks like gingerbread cookies, festive cupcakes, and themed beverages appear on menus.
- Festive Menus: Restaurants start introducing holiday-specific dishes and decorations.
5. Entertainment and Parades Planning
One of the most anticipated aspects of Disney’s Christmas celebration is the entertainment. The signs are:
- Announcement of Shows: Disney announces returning favorites like “Frozen Holiday Surprise” and new offerings for the season.
- Rehearsals in Progress: You might spot performers rehearsing, especially around parades and shows like “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration.”
As the year progresses into late fall, these signs become more pronounced, and the magic of Walt Disney World's Christmas celebration comes to life. Each indication builds upon the excitement, promising an unforgettable holiday experience. From the first twinkling lights adorning Cinderella Castle to the savory scents of holiday treats wafting through the park, the journey to Christmas at Walt Disney World is as enchanting as the season itself. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit, enjoying seasonal attractions, exclusive shows, and a magical atmosphere that can only be found at Disney during this magical time of the year. The attention to detail, the genuine warmth of the festive decorations, and the joy in every corner make the early signs of Christmas at Walt Disney World a preview of the wonders that await in the heart of Orlando.
When does Walt Disney World start decorating for Christmas?
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Disney typically begins its Christmas decor in early November, with full decorations up by mid-November. The specific dates can vary each year.
Can you visit Walt Disney World during the holiday season?
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Yes, Walt Disney World is open year-round. However, visiting during the holidays requires booking tickets in advance, especially for special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
What special events occur during Christmas at Walt Disney World?
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Events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, festive parades, seasonal shows, and special holiday-themed fireworks. Character meet and greets with Christmas outfits are also a highlight.
