The Top 5 Holiday Highlights at Walt Disney World

We may not be dashing through the snow here in Orlando, but it sure feels like the holidays thanks to the magical yuletide-themed events at Walt Disney World. Disney promptly transformed all four parks into respective winter wonderlands the night after Halloween for guests to enjoy the magic of this upcoming holiday season. Here’s a list of our top 5 holiday highlights at Walt Disney World that you won’t want to miss:

#1 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom

At the top of our list this year is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. The park is closed to all but the event ticket holders for this special celebration. With Christmas carols ringing loud throughout the air, multiple holiday-themed performances, and a spectacular fireworks show, you’re sure to have an unforgettable night with friends and family. The party starts at 7:00 p.m. and ends at midnight.

The magic of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins right when you walk in the park with “snow” falling on Main Street, U.S.A. Cinderella’s Castle shines brightly off in the distance while you peruse the Christmas tree clad streets and enjoy unlimited complimentary Christmas cookies and hot chocolate. One of the highlights of the celebration is the incredible Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. With rows of marching Toy Soldiers, cartwheeling Gingerbread Men, dancing Nutcrackers, and even an appearance by the big man himself — Santa — in addition to all of your favorite classic Disney characters, you’ll be filled with holiday cheer as you watch your little ones wave and cheer them on!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates:

November: 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, and 24
December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, and 22

(Sold out dates: November 24th and December 22nd)

Tickets for Ages 10+ Start at $99-$139
Tickets for Ages 3-9 Start at $94-$134

#2 The Candlelight Processional at Epcot

The Candlelight Processional at Epcot holds the #2 spot on our holiday highlights list. Included with regular Epcot admission, the breathtaking show features a live 50-piece orchestra, massed choir, and celebrity narrator who retells the traditional story of Christmas in a stirring performance. This beautiful program evokes the true meaning of the holidays and has become a cherished part of the Walt Disney World holiday season. The Candlelight Processional is performed at the open-air American Gardens Theatre three times per night at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m.

The spectacular rendition is a part of Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays, which takes place starting on November 29th until December 30th. During this time, you’ll be able to enjoy festive park decorations, live holiday-themed musical productions, and a wide variety of sweet seasonal treats and speciality beverages. While you’re there, be sure to stop by each pavilion at the World Showcase to learn about all the holiday traditions. Each country has its own special theme and storytellers that will delight you with tales of how the holidays are celebrated in their homeland.

#3 Sunset Seasons Greetings at Hollywood Studios

Another notable Disney World holiday experience that you won’t want to miss is Sunset Seasons Greetings at Hollywood Studios. This impressive yuletide projection show transforms the facade of the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into precious seasonal scenes with amazing laser effects. Enjoy falling “snow” on the festive street of Sunset Boulevard and watch as you favorite characters come to life — from Mickey and Minnie reminiscing about a hometown Christmas to Woody and friends wondering which new toys are coming this holiday season, you’ll be filled with holiday sentiment during the show. This stunning experience is a part of the Flurry of Fun holiday events at Hollywood Studios and runs continuously.

#4 Diwali, the Holiday Festival of Lights at Animal Kingdom

The newest addition of Diwali, the Holiday Festival of Lights at Animal Kingdom holds the #4 spot on our holiday highlights list. As you wander through Asia, you’ll be able to see how the residents of Anandapur have decorated the theatre district in celebration of Diwali. Glowing flowers, lanterns, and brightly strung lights will illuminate the square between Anandapur Theater and the waterfront stage this holiday season with authentic cultural performances.

The celebration of Diwali will also be included in the live show, Up! A Great Bird Adventure. In addition to dazzling birds of all shapes and sizes, the show features beautiful authentic clothing worn by the handlers and a festive musical score. Diwali, the Holiday Festival of Lights is a part of Animal Kingdom’s new holiday entertainment and decor.

#5 The Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs

The last holiday highlight that you won’t want to miss is the charming Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs. Discover 23 spectacularly decorated Christmas trees — each inspired by a particular Disney character or theme — during a walk-through experience featuring music, falling “snow,” and delicious seasonal food and beverage offerings like frozen hot chocolate.

The trail starts in the Disney Springs Marketplace, where you’ll spot an alluring pathway towards rows of trees with the following Disney-inspired themes:

Walt Disney World Parks
Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Beauty & the Beast
Sleeping Beauty
Aladdin
Frozen
The Princess & The Frog
The Little Mermaid

Mulan
Haunted Mansion
Snow White
Pinocchio
Toy Story
Disney Villains
Dumbo
Cinderella

Robin Hood
Star Wars
Peter Pan
Tangled
The Lion King
Mary Poppins
Fantasia

During your journey along the Christmas Tree Trail, be sure to check out the multiple food and beverage kiosks and special merchandise from select shops. You’ll be able to meet the old jolly elf himself — Santa Claus — halfway through the trail in his very own chalet now through December 24th. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful time at Disney Springs this holiday season.