It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year…
I know, I KNOW!
Halloween only officially got underway at Walt Disney World this week, and as someone who doesn’t like to celebrate winter holidays until after Thanksgiving, I’m also a little surprised at myself. But there’s no denying that planning a fantastic holiday getaway at Walt Disney World requires a little extra planning and expertise, so I’m going to jump ahead just a little bit and hope you’ll indulge me here.
So let’s talk about the Most Wonderful Time of the Year in the Happiest Place on Earth!
With extra parties and park hours, special snacks and decorations and a bit of additional cheer sprinkling Resorts, there’s a ton to see and do at Walt Disney World during the holidays, and you’re not going to want to miss any of it.
When do the holidays start?
This year, we can expect decorations up by November 9th, to kick off the first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party of the season. The new Jollywood Nights event at Hollywood Studios will premiere that same week on November 11th.
But keep in mind, while much of the parks will be decorated and we can expect holiday offerings in droves, EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays doesn’t start until after Thanksgiving!
When should I visit?
Whenever it fits into your schedule! But you should keep in mind that the holidays themselves, and the days right around them, are busy. Park reservations are still required and they will probably book to capacity fast, so if you’re going to be there, make sure you make your selections early!
My best recommendation is always the first two weeks of December. All the holidays are underway across the parks, the crowds typically aren’t quite as high as they were for Thanksgiving and haven’t hit Christmas levels yet, and the weather in Florida is great (especially if you’re coming from the chilly Northeast, like me!)
What should I do when I visit?
Be Holly Jolly to your heart’s content! Here’s some tips for making the most of your magical holidays at Walt Disney World Resort…
Gingerbread House at The Grand Floridian.
✨ Hotel hopping is a fun thing to do year round, but there’s something extra special about seeing all the resorts decked out for the holiday season. Each gets a nod to the holidays in a way that highlights the theme of the hotel. And Deluxe resorts even get full size gingerbread houses! You can stop by and see them being made and decorated if you’re there early in the season.
✨ Grab tickets to after hours parties for extra magic time! These parties have special treats to enjoy, exclusive shows and offer limited capacity, which means more ride time if that’s what you’re looking for!
✨ Does your family send letters to Santa? Make sure you check out the official Letters to Santa mailbox in Magic Kingdom at Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe!
✨ If your trip coincides with the Festival of the Holidays, make sure you set aside some time for EPCOT. The festival celebrates holidays and traditions from near and far, and it’s a can’t miss. They also do a Candle Light Processional that’s spectacular, it features a full choir, orchestra and a celebrity narrator. Plus, a cookie stroll!
Walt Disney World is magic any time of year, but there’s just something a little extra special about the holiday season. If you’re a holiday lover, it’s a can’t miss! And the gift of shared family memories is so much more impactful than a toy.
