“I want to go to Walt Disney World for Christmas!” is something that every Disney fan has said before. And then you look at prices, resort availability, ADRs and crowd calendars…and then you reconsider and end up going to WDW 3rd week of November!
Why would someone want to go to the most visited theme park in the world during their busiest time of the year? Great question!
MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY AT THE MAGIC KINGDOM
Cookies, hot chocolate, fireworks, and Disney…seems like a great combination to me! Although it’s a hard ticket event, the party is a highlight for those of us who want a little extra holiday cheer with our favourite Disney characters (and Santa of course!)
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CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL AT EPCOT
Put this on your list of activities to experience, because it’s well worth it! The Candlelight Processional is the story of Christmas as told by a celebrity narrator, 50-piece cast member orchestra and choir in the American Garden Theatre in the American Pavilion.
**EXTRA TIP**
Look into the Dining Package to save your spot in the experience, as lineups get pretty crazy sometimes depending on who’s narrating that evening’s event.
RESORT HOPPING
One of my favourite pastimes while on Disney property is to visit all the various Resorts…usually to pin trade…but in the holidays it gets more fun as each resort has their own unique brand of celebrations. Christmas Trees and awesome decorations aplenty are enough to get some guests to come back year after year.
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YOU CAN LEARN AT EPCOT
EPCOT has always been a park for knowledge and “Edu-tainment”, but during November & December, the World Showcase takes center stage with Holidays Around the World. Each country offers a sampling of their holiday traditions at scheduled times during the day.
It’s a great way to take in the cultures of the participating countries and maybe learn a little bit at the same time!
IT SNOWS ON MAIN STREET
Walking down Main Street USA is by far the best part of the holidays at Disney World. You’re able to see all the festive decorations, the hidden mickeys and Cinderella’s Castle in the distance…yea, it’s pretty awesome.
CHARACTERS IN HOLIDAY COSTUMES
Goofy dressed as Santa is probably one of my favourite memories of all time! Goofy isn’t the only one, though! The parks are packed with holiday characters you can only find during this time of year. Mickey & Minnie, Donald & Daisy, Chip & Dale, Goofy & Pluto, Tinker Bell all have special outfits for the holidays.
There are many others you can find in addition if you go to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party.
In short, you have plenty of unique character opportunities during the holidays.
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HOLIDAY MERCHANDISE
Did you know that you can buy holiday merchandise year-round at Disney Springs and in the Magic Kingdom? Not matter what you can always find holiday merchandise at Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Days of Christmas at Disney Springs.
DISNEY’S YULETIDE FANTASY TOUR
This seasonal 3-hour tour is offered on select dates throughout the holiday season and provides you with an “insider look” at the transformation of the Walt Disney Resort into the holiday wonderland that we all flock to Florida to see each and every single year!
Disney Jollywood Nights
It’s on the list just to make sure that you’re aware of it. Disney Jollywood Nights is the latest full extra-ticketed event at Walt Disney World is at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and there are a lot of folks who have been to the event and documented the entire experience. As I haven’t had the chance to go to the event, it’s irresponsible for me to provide commentary, outside of saying that I’ve seen the videos and feedback online as well. Do your research, which is the same advice that I share with everyone who’s making an educated decision on which experiences you should plan for.
Did we miss something on our list? Check it twice…and then send me a note via Instagram @StepstoMagic
