Planning your Perfect Walt Disney World Holiday
Many guests love to visit the theme parks all year round but there is something EXTRA magical about visiting during the holiday season. But - the last thing you want is to arrive and find out that some of the most popular experiences are already sold out. We’re here to share what experiences you should plan to book ahead, so you don’t miss out this season at Walt Disney World. PLUS - we’re telling you about two favorite holiday happenings at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
MAGIC KINGDOM PARK
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party This special ticketed event takes place on select nights in Magic Kingdom in November and December each year.
Upcoming Dates for 2024: November 21, 22, 24, 26, 27, and 29; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20. Most dates will typically sell out in advance of the event.
Event runs from 7pm to midnight (this means park guests without a party ticket will be required to leave by 6pm). The event includes a special parade and fireworks, meeting characters (including some in their holiday best), holiday cookies and beverages around the park, select attractions open including some with special holiday overlays and so much more.
Tickets range in cost from $169 to $219 per person per night plus tax.
HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
Jollywood Nights This special ticketed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios debuted last year; while it had some growing pains in its first season, we’re hearing GREAT things about the 2024 event taking place on select evenings in November and December.
Upcoming Dates for 2024: November 23, 25 and 30; December 2, 7, 11, 14, 18 and 21. As the popularity of this event catches on and becomes a holiday tradition, much like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, it is likely that dates will sell out in advance.
This event runs from 7:30pm until 12:30am in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The event includes special entertainment like Glisten! , a stunning show with champion skaters!, the Nightmare Before Christmas sing along and so much more. There will also be special holiday treats available for purchase and great character meet and greets.
Tickets range in cost from $159 to $179 per person per night plus tax.
EPCOT
EPCOT Candlelight Processional This is a special event that takes place on most nights during Festival of the Holidays in EPCOT.
While the event itself is included with your park ticket, this event features celebrity narrators and a beautiful choir singing holiday favorites which means that walk in space goes quickly and some guests wait in line ALL day for walk in spots.
However, many of the Table service restaurants at EPCOT feature the ability to access reserved/priority seating. So while you will still need to get in line, most guests can get a great spot with the dining package about 60 minutes prior to their show instead of spending their entire day in line. CLICK HERE for more information about Candlelight Dining Packages.
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Merry Menagerie While this special holiday treat is not necessarily an event, it’s a beloved holiday feature at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This adorable playful crew are incredible puppets themed after winter-inspired critters big and small. Life-sized animal friends like foxes, penguins, polar bears, and more come to life before your eyes thanks to incredibly skilled cast members and artisans. You can find the Merry Menagerie at Animal Kingdom through Christmas Eve. Oh - and want to meet the big man of the season, himself? You’ll find Santa Claus at the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party on the patio at Restaurantosaurus.
Because there are holiday happenings in each Walt Disney World park, you’ll want a 4-Day Park Ticket so you can take in ALL of the magic! Your Goofy Getaways Travel Consultant can help you book your trip and these special experiences, as well as share more information with you to make the best of your holiday trip!
Check out our “Meet Your Consultants” page to contact a Goofy Getaways Travel Consultant if you are not already partnered with one of our amazing planners at this time.
We want your holidays to be extra magical… so don’t delay in booking these special events and meals to make your holiday vacation to the parks the perfect present for your loved ones!
All images courtesy of Disney
