The holiday season is a magical time to visit Walt Disney World, with festive decorations adorning the parks, resorts, and even the public spaces in between. In 2019, Disney rolled out an exceptional array of Christmas decorations that truly transformed the entire resort into a winter wonderland. Let's explore when you could see these decorations in full festive swing at Disney World during the 2019 Christmas season.
When Disney World Started Decorating for Christmas in 2019
Disney World typically starts decorating for Christmas after Halloween is over, aligning with the tradition of Dia de los Muertos celebrations which end in early November. Here's when the magic began:
- November 1st: The parks start showing some holiday spirit, with characters dressing in holiday attire, holiday music beginning to play, and some decorations starting to appear, especially in areas like Town Square at Magic Kingdom.
- Mid-November: Decorations intensify. Disney Springs gets festive decorations, and resorts such as the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa unveils its massive gingerbread house.
- Early December: By this time, most areas of Disney World are decked out with holiday decorations, including the towering Christmas trees, garlands, and lights.
Best Times to See Disney World at Its Most Festive
If you're planning to experience the peak of Disney World's Christmas decorations, consider the following times:
- December 1st: The parks go into full holiday mode, and all the decorations are usually in place.
- December 25th: This is arguably the most festive day, although crowds can be overwhelming. The parks feature special events, parades, and fireworks shows tailored for Christmas.
- New Year's Eve: Another peak time, with decorations at their most lush, but also with significant crowds looking to ring in the new year at the happiest place on earth.
Exploring the Parks and Resorts at Christmas
Each Disney World park has its unique flair when it comes to Christmas decorations:
- Magic Kingdom: Home to the iconic Cinderella Castle, adorned with dream-like snowflakes, the park's Main Street U.S.A. is beautifully decorated with garlands and lights.
- Epcot: The International Festival of the Holidays takes place here, with each country showcasing their holiday traditions. The centerpiece is the Holidays Around the World Tree of Life.
- Hollywood Studios: Known for its festive atmosphere with decorations like Hollywood Tower Hotel transformed into the "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!" experience.
- Animal Kingdom: While less traditional in decorations, the park features holiday celebrations like the "Merry Menagerie" and special performances.
Disney Resorts and Their Holiday Decor
The Disney Resorts themselves also play a significant role in the holiday decorations:
| Resort | Notable Decorations |
|---|---|
| Grand Floridian | A massive gingerbread house, which doubles as a bakery |
| Polynesian Village | Festive leis, Polynesian Santa carvings, and a gingerbread village |
| Wilderness Lodge | A towering Christmas tree inspired by nature, alongside Native American-inspired ornaments |
🎄 Note: While the decorations are spectacular, be prepared for larger crowds as the festive season progresses, especially closer to Christmas Day.
Summing Up the Festive Experience
Throughout December, Disney World truly lives up to its reputation as the "most magical place on earth." The Christmas decorations in 2019 not only transformed the parks but also infused a festive spirit into every aspect of your visit, from parades and performances to the food and hospitality. Visiting Disney World during this time isn't just about seeing the decorations; it's about immersing yourself in the holiday spirit in a place where that spirit never fades, no matter where you go within the resort.
When should I visit to see the peak Christmas decorations?
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For the peak experience of Disney World’s Christmas decorations, visit on or after December 1st, as all major decorations will be in place, and the parks will be in full holiday mode.
Can I see the Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian all day?
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Yes, the gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian is available for viewing throughout the day, from the time the resort opens until late in the evening.
Are there special events or activities during Christmas at Disney?
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Disney hosts numerous special events including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Candlelight Processional, and various holiday-themed shows and fireworks displays.
How do the Disney parks handle Christmas crowds?
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Disney implements crowd management strategies like extended park hours, special tickets for events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and fast-pass options to help manage the influx of visitors during the holidays.
