7 Ways to Celebrate Christmas at Walt Disney World

Last Updated on March 24, 2022 by Kimberly Stroh

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Ok, maybe not because it’s really October still. But now is the best time to start putting the final touches on your holiday Walt Disney World vacation.

Even though it’s the busiest season to visit the parks, it’s an extra magical time of the year too. Christmas decor starts showing up, in the parks, around the first week of November and stays up until the second week of January. Even the resorts have plenty of magical holiday spirit as they transform with Christmas decor.

For 2016, Disney is introducing some new Christmas delights to accompany their classics. Here’s my top 5 list of ways to celebrate Christmas at Walt Disney World…

How To Celebrate Christmas At Disney World

New Holiday Spectacular at Hollywood Studios

Watch the newest nighttime holiday show, “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM” at Hollywood Studios. Premiering on November 14th (2016), the show will feature state-of-the-art projections, special effects, fireworks and even snow! This will be a hot event since it’s brand new. For an extra special touch, you can book the dessert party for pre-show treats ($69 adults & $39 children).

©David Roark, Disney

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Filled with the enchanting holiday spirit, join Mickey at the Magic Kingdom as he brings in the holiday season. For this special ticketed event, characters dress in holiday attire, Cinderella’s castle shimmers and even Santa visits as he joins the parade up Main Street. Many guests like shorter ride wait times and special food offerings that the Christmas party offers. Be sure to book early (starting at $86 per ticket). DVC Members and Annual Passholders receive a 10% discount.

©Disney

Visit the Disney Parks Resorts

Each resort has their very own Christmas tree to welcome guests. If you’re looking for a break from the parks, time the time to visit the different resorts to admire their holiday decor. Take a walk around Disney’s Boardwalk or try resort hopping on the monorail. Find some hidden Mickey’s within the tree and take plenty of keepsake photos with the family.

Gingerbread Tour

To accompany your resort tour, you can “ooo” and “ahh” over the custom designed gingerbread displays in the Deluxe resorts at Walt Disney World. Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Boardwalk Resort, Contemporary and the Grand Floridian, all showcase decadent gingerbread displays for the holiday season (in the lobby). Disney chefs work night and day to create these over-the-top masterpieces that are entirely edible. Of course, you can sample some gingerbread too!

Take a Holiday Tour

Ever wonder how Disney pulls off so much extra magic during the holiday season? You can find out! Disney offers two special ticket tours for guests, the Yuletide Fantasy ($99 per person) and Holiday D-Lights ($259 per person). A “holiday hose” will give you backstage access to experience the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into the Disney Parks holiday season.

©Disney

Epcot’s Holiday’s Around the World

Experience holiday culinary delights and traditions from around the world at Epcot’s World Showcase (park ticket required). Stroll around the different countries and experience each one celebrates the season. From tamales in Mexico to a hot salted caramel drink in Germany, your tastebuds will be celebrating the Christmas season with you. Be sure to grab a holiday passport at the entrance of Epcot to mark off each treat you try!

©Disney

Candlelight Processional

Enjoy the classic Christmas story and holiday music at Epcot’s American Gardens Theater. Narrated by a celebrity (like Neil Patrick Harris) and accompanied by a full orchestra, you can sit back and enjoy the traditional sounds of Christmas ($97 per person).

For reserved seating and a special holiday meal, you can book a dinner package. Guests can select from Epcot restaurants for lunch or dinner, then enjoy the Candlelight Processional afterwards with special seating.

Do you have a favorite way to celebrate the Christmas season on vacation? Or do you enjoy it from the comfort of home?