The holiday season at Disney World is filled with wonder, enchantment, and a bit of pixie dust! Each year, Disney World transforms into a magical winter wonderland, dazzling visitors with its festive decorations, holiday-themed events, and spectacular shows. Here's a detailed guide on five key holiday decoration dates in 2016 at Walt Disney World, so you can plan your visit and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit!
Magic Kingdom’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
The very first major event in the holiday calendar at Disney World is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, kicking off on November 7, 2016, and running on select nights until December 22, 2016. This after-hours, ticketed event offers guests an exclusive opportunity to:
- Enjoy the special Christmas parade, “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade,” featuring characters in their holiday attire.
- Experience a different fireworks show, “Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season.”
- Watch “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” stage show in Tomorrowland.
- Partake in complimentary cookies and hot cocoa stations scattered throughout the park.
- Attend the free dance parties and see the Christmas characters in their festive outfits.
Image (Do not include the actual image here): Picture of Cinderella Castle at night with holiday lighting and decorations.
Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays
Starting on November 25 and continuing through December 30, Epcot lights up for its International Festival of the Holidays. This event brings together holiday traditions from around the world with:
- “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” adorned with holiday fireworks.
- Holiday Kitchens offering festive foods and drinks from countries around the world.
- “Candlelight Processional” - a moving retelling of the Christmas story with a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a choir and orchestra.
- Various performances and storytellers sharing unique holiday customs.
Hollywood Studios’ Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
From November 14 through December 31, Disney’s Hollywood Studios celebrates with Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, a nighttime spectacular combining festive projections, music, and special effects:
- A holiday-themed show on the Chinese Theater, featuring a storyline with Santa’s elves and magical explosions.
- Special holiday character interactions, including Donald and Daisy in their holiday outfits.
- Themed holiday foods and merchandise throughout the park.
Image (Do not include the actual image here): The projection show at Hollywood Studios during Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
Animal Kingdom’s Holiday Transformation
Though Animal Kingdom doesn’t have a separate ticketed event, from November 11, it gets its share of holiday decor:
- Decorative lights on the Tree of Life, showcasing a nature-themed holiday story with animal carvings.
- Holiday-themed character meet-and-greets, including a festive Mickey and friends.
- Special holiday foods available at various food locations around the park.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs might not have a specific kickoff date, but come late October to December, this shopping and entertainment district transforms into:
- A winter wonderland with snow-like effects, Christmas carolers, and illuminated trees.
- The Dancing Fountains near EPCOT with holiday lights.
- A giant Christmas tree at Marketplace that lights up each night.
- Santa Claus and other seasonal meet-and-greets.
- Special events like the candlelight processional and seasonal fireworks.
Notes:
🎅 Note: For many of these events, you’ll need a special event ticket, separate from regular park admission. It’s advisable to plan and book your tickets early, especially for popular events like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
🌟 Note: Each event offers unique experiences, decorations, and characters, so consider visiting all parks to experience the full spectrum of holiday magic at Disney World.
In wrapping up this overview of holiday decorations at Disney World in 2016, it's clear that each location transforms in its own special way. From the magical lights on Cinderella Castle to the global celebrations at Epcot, every corner of Disney offers something uniquely festive. Visitors are treated to a plethora of holiday cheer, from parades and fireworks to character interactions and seasonal foods. Remember, to make the most of your holiday experience, plan ahead, secure your tickets, and immerse yourself in the joy and festivities that Disney World has to offer during this enchanting time of the year.
When does the holiday season officially start at Disney World?
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The holiday season at Disney World kicks off with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in early November and continues through to early January.
Do I need separate tickets for holiday events?
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Yes, for events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you need to purchase an event ticket separate from your regular park admission.
Can I see Santa Claus at Disney World?
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Yes, Santa Claus makes appearances at several locations throughout Disney World, including Disney Springs, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom during the holiday season.
Are there any discounts for holiday events at Disney World?
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Occasionally, Disney may offer discounts, especially for certain dates or through special offers. It’s always good to check the official Disney World website or authorized ticket sellers for current promotions.
What are some must-see holiday shows at Disney World?
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Must-see holiday shows include “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade,” “Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season” fireworks, and the “Candlelight Processional” at Epcot.
