When visiting Walt Disney World (WDW) during the festive season, the dazzling Christmas decorations play a pivotal role in enhancing the magical holiday experience. In 2016, Disney enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike eagerly anticipated the moment the park would transform into a winter wonderland, marking the unofficial start to the holiday festivities. Here, we delve into the timeline of WDW's Christmas decorations in 2016, providing insight into the planning, setup, and the breathtaking results that holiday lovers can look forward to.
When Does the Transformation Begin?
Traditionally, Walt Disney World begins its Christmas decorating journey before Halloween. For 2016, the intricate process of sprucing up the parks and resorts for the holiday season kicked off in mid-September.
Here's a timeline of key decoration milestones:
- August-September: Planning and preparation for the Christmas decorations.
- Mid-September: Initial decorations start going up at Disney Springs, Magic Kingdom, and hotels.
- October: More parks, like Epcot and Animal Kingdom, join in with thematic decorations.
- Early November: The full transition to Christmas decor is completed, preparing for the holiday season.
The Order of Decorations
Disney follows a meticulous order when decorating for the holidays:
1. Disney Springs
The transformation of Disney Springs often starts first, becoming a shopping and dining destination with a holiday twist. Guests can expect to see:
- The iconic Christmas tree near the Marketplace Co-Op.
- Garlands, wreaths, and lights adorned throughout the district.
- Seasonal entertainers and special events start to appear.
2. Magic Kingdom
Next up, Magic Kingdom is festooned with its quintessential Christmas decorations:
- A colossal Christmas tree dominates Town Square.
- Castle Dream Lights illuminate Cinderella Castle with over 200,000 lights.
- Holiday-themed entertainment starts, including the “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.”
3. Disney’s Hollywood Studios
At Hollywood Studios:
- A huge tree in the center of Hollywood Boulevard.
- Seasonal banners, garlands, and themed shows for the season.
4. Epcot
Epcot showcases international holiday traditions:
- The “Holidays Around the World” event features decorations from various countries.
- Special showcases like the gingerbread houses are erected.
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom
While primarily known for its wildlife, Animal Kingdom gets its festive touch:
- Decorations respect the theme of discovery and adventure.
- Holiday storytelling and characters come to life around the park.
Transforming the Resorts
Disney’s hotels are not left behind in the Christmas spirit. Here's a snapshot:
Luxury Resorts
- The Grand Floridian: Famous for its life-size gingerbread house.
- Polynesian Village: Decorations emphasize warmth and a Polynesian Christmas.
Moderate and Value Resorts
- Caribbean Beach: A more understated approach with tropical-themed decorations.
- Pop Century and All-Star Resorts: Large, decorative icons get a holiday makeover.
🎄 Note: Each resort has its own unique approach to holiday decorations, enhancing the experience for guests staying there.
The Main Attraction: Cinderella Castle's Dream Lights
The Castle Dream Lights are a marvel of engineering and design:
- Over 200,000 lights are draped around the castle.
- The lights are turned on with a special ceremony, usually aligning with the first "Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party."
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Early November 2016 | Castle Dream Lights Ceremony |
🌟 Note: This transformation of Cinderella Castle into a beacon of holiday spirit is a must-see event.
Tickets and Planning for Holiday Events
To fully experience WDW's Christmas magic, guests should:
- Plan ahead for special events like "Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party."
- Make dining reservations early, as restaurants fill up quickly during the holiday season.
- Check park hours and holiday schedules for any modifications.
📅 Note: Dates for special events change annually, so always check the official schedule for 2016 events.
Why Christmas at WDW is Special
Walt Disney World goes beyond traditional decorations to create an immersive holiday experience:
- Cultural Celebrations: Epcot's International showcases are a unique approach to holiday celebrations.
- Parades and Shows: Holiday-themed parades, fireworks, and shows are tailored for the season.
- Holiday Magic: Snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. in Florida, making it a magical experience.
In sum, the transition to Christmas at Walt Disney World in 2016 was a testament to Disney's commitment to delivering magical moments to its guests. From the detailed planning in August to the final touches in November, every aspect of the resort was transformed into a holiday spectacle. This careful curation of holiday cheer ensures that visitors are treated to an unforgettable experience, one that captivates the senses and creates lasting memories. Whether it's the glow of the Castle Dream Lights or the unique cultural celebrations at Epcot, Disney's Christmas decorations in 2016 provided an enchanting backdrop for holiday magic.
How early does Disney start planning its Christmas decorations?
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Disney typically begins planning and preparing for the Christmas season several months in advance, with decorations often starting to go up in mid-September.
What is the first park or area to get Christmas decorations?
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Disney Springs is usually the first to be decorated, starting the festive transformation of the resort.
Is it worth visiting Walt Disney World just for the Christmas decorations?
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Absolutely! The Christmas decorations, along with special events like “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party,” create a unique and magical atmosphere that’s worth experiencing.
