As the leaves start to fall and the air grows crisper, many of us are already anticipating the festive spirit that the holiday season brings. Walt Disney World, known for its enchanting celebrations, often begins transforming into a winter wonderland earlier than one might think. Here are 5 early signs that Disney World is gearing up for Christmas 2019:
Jingle Bell Jingles
One of the earliest and most delightful signs that Christmas is approaching at Disney World is the change in the musical atmosphere. Traditional Disney tunes are slowly replaced by the catchy jingles of the season:
- “Let It Snow” plays in the background while you sip your hot chocolate.
- Songs from beloved Disney Christmas specials, like “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas”, can be heard throughout the parks.
- The Christmas edition of the Disney parades includes classic tunes like “Jingle Bell Rock”.
🎄 Note: These festive tunes are not only a treat for the ears but also signal the upcoming holiday event schedules.
Festive Decorations
The parks themselves become living, breathing Christmas cards. Here’s what to look out for:
- Gigantic Christmas trees appearing in key areas like Magic Kingdom’s Main Street U.S.A. and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
- Holiday wreaths, garlands, and sparkling lights adorning the parks and resorts, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Intricate, themed decorations that are unique to each park, bringing the festive spirit to life in different ways.
Holiday Parades and Shows
Disney’s holiday season is synonymous with its spectacular parades and shows, often starting rehearsals early:
- “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party” – known for its parade with Santa Claus, fireworks, and special character meet-and-greets.
- The “Candlelight Processional” at Epcot, where a celebrity narrator shares the story of Christmas while a full orchestra and choir perform.
- New and returning holiday shows and performances are announced and begin previewing.
Holiday Merchandise
Disney enthusiasts know that one of the first signs of the holiday season is the influx of themed merchandise:
- New ornaments, holiday-themed clothing, and collectibles start appearing on store shelves.
- Limited edition pins, plush toys dressed in festive attire, and seasonal snacks make their way into Disney’s gift shops.
- Exclusive items available only during the holiday season, like special edition Mickey and Minnie ears, become the talk of the town.
🎅 Note: The holiday merchandise offers an insight into what themes Disney will focus on during the Christmas season.
Special Events and Dining
Disney World’s holiday preparations also extend to its dining and event planning:
- Special holiday dining events, like character breakfasts, dinners, and holiday parties, start being promoted.
- Reservations open for exclusive holiday dining experiences, including storybook breakfasts with Disney royalty in their holiday best.
- Activities like gingerbread house making or festive cookie decorating workshops become available.
The above signs paint a picture of a place where magic is not just felt, but lived through every small detail. While walking through the parks, you might see:
| Aspect | Early Signs |
|---|---|
| Entertainment | Rehearsals for holiday parades and shows |
| Merchandising | Limited edition items, seasonal snacks |
| Ambiance | Music changes, decor, holiday scents |
| Dining | Special menus, event reservations |
The excitement of these preparations isn't just for the holiday, it's the anticipation of the magic that Disney World brings. From the catchy tunes to the sight of Santa's sleigh soaring above Main Street U.S.A., each element signifies that a season of celebration is imminent, where joy, love, and nostalgia intertwine to create the true spirit of Christmas at Disney World.
The preparation for Christmas is not just a shift in decor, it's a transformation in the very essence of the parks. Every detail, every element is meticulously planned to ensure that each visitor's experience is unique and unforgettable. This attention to detail and dedication to maintaining the magic not only ensures a seamless holiday season but also fosters a sense of wonder and excitement in both long-time fans and first-time visitors.
When does Disney World typically start its Christmas preparations?
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Disney World often starts its Christmas preparations in early to mid-November, with decorations and events ramping up as the holiday season approaches.
Can visitors enjoy these early preparations without the crowded holiday season?
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Absolutely, early preparations mean visitors can enjoy many of the holiday elements before the peak holiday crowds arrive, offering a more relaxed experience.
What are some of the must-see holiday attractions during the early preparations?
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Key attractions include the magical decorations on Main Street U.S.A., the lighting of the giant Christmas tree, and the early performances of holiday shows.
How do I know if there are special holiday events happening during my visit?
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Check the official Disney World event calendar or consult with guest services when planning your trip to see what special holiday events coincide with your visit.
Is there a holiday parade every night at Disney World?
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Different parades and shows are scheduled throughout the holiday season, but during the pre-Christmas preparations, you might catch rehearsals or early performances of these festive events.
