Discover the magic of the holidays at Disney World in 2023. From festive parades and decorations to special characters and delightful foods, explore the full guide to making your holiday season unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Walt Disney World transforms into a holiday wonderland with nearly nine miles of garlands and over 15,000 ornaments.
- Unique holiday experiences across different parks, including Christmastime parades, festive shows, and special character encounters.
- Extensive holiday food and drink offerings, ranging from themed treats at Disney Springs to special menus at various park locations.
The Holiday Spectacle Across Disney World Parks
Disney World’s theme parks each offer a unique holiday experience, brimming with festive decorations, parades, and special events. Here’s what each park has in store:
- Magic Kingdom: A 65-foot Christmas tree greets visitors, with classic decorations and the Jingle Cruise. The highlight is Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, featuring iconic Disney characters and Santa Claus.
- Epcot: The International Festival of the Holidays showcases global traditions, including “Las Posadas With Mariachi Cobre” and the Candlelight Processional with celebrity narrators like Neil Patrick Harris and Brendan Fraser.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: A nostalgic holiday makeover with vintage decorations, a holiday projection show on the Hollywood Tower Hotel, and Santa meet-and-greets.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Understated yet beautiful decorations with a focus on animal-themed luminaries, Diwali celebrations, and the Merry Menagerie of life-size puppets.
Special Holiday Events and Parties
Disney World hosts exclusive holiday events and parties, offering unique experiences:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: An iconic event in Magic Kingdom featuring unlimited cookies, hot cocoa, special shows, and holiday-themed attractions. Prices range from $159 to $199.
- Disney Jollywood Nights: A glamorous, adult-focused party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, featuring rare characters, special food and drinks, and live entertainment.
- Disney Springs: A hub for holiday shopping and dining, featuring the Christmas Tree Stroll and nightly snowfall for a festive atmosphere without a park ticket.
Festive Foods and Drinks Galore
Disney World’s holiday season is a feast for the senses, offering an array of special foods and drinks:
- Epcot’s Holiday Kitchens: International festive foods like smoked salmon potato latkes and bûche de Noël.
- Disney Springs: Unique holiday treats at various locations, from gingerbread cheesecakes to holiday cocktails.
- Resort Hotels: Each resort offers its own festive culinary delights, including special holiday menus and seasonal treats.
Tips for the Ultimate Holiday Experience
Maximize your holiday experience at Disney World with these tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Early December, especially weekdays, offers a less crowded experience.
- Reservations: Book park visits and dining experiences in advance due to limited capacity and high demand during the holiday season.
- Stay at Disney Resorts: For an immersive holiday experience, consider staying at a Disney resort, many of which feature unique decorations and holiday activities.
