Disney World is magical during all seasons and times of year, but something about the holidays at Disney sparks so much joy in all guests. All 4 parks, Disney Springs, and Disney resorts celebrate the holidays in several different ways. Each park has unique offerings for the holiday season and they all deserve a visit during this time. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a park that celebrates conservation, animals, and creativity. Christmas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a perfect time to visit and enjoy the park. If you are planning a holiday visit to Animal Kingdom in 2024 then check out all of the fun to be had.
Merry Menagerie
Discovery Island is home to the Merry Menagerie, a seasonal celebration that occurs periodically throughout the day. These intricate and festive puppets feature animals that represent the holidays and winter. Guests can see polar bears, penguins, foxes, and more. These creatures are accompanied by their puppeteers and music. They are interactive and guests are invited to pet and enjoy them.
Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition
Each night after dark the Tree of Life comes alive with projections and music. During the holidays, a special holiday edition of show is played. Guests can see holiday scenes and listen to their favorite Christmas tunes. This show will run after dark and play every 10 minutes until park closing. Guests should check the park closing times to ensure it will get dark enough during their visit to run the show.
Festive Characters
Mickey and Minnie can be found in their Christmas clothing at Adventurers Outpost. Mickey and Minnie will be dressed for the season but still ready for adventure! Guests can also meet Santa Claus on the patio outside Restaurantosaurus. Santa will be visiting until December 24th and guests can check their Disney app for wait times and more information.
Seasonal Treats
Like other Disney parks, Animal Kingdom is offering seasonal holiday treats that you can’t find anywhere else. Currently, guests can find the Snack for Santa cupcake at both Pizzafari and Restaurantosaurus. This festive cupcake consists of chocolate chip cake, cookie dough, milk mousse, buttercream, a chocolate chip cookie, and Christmas sprinkles. This treat is great for one or more people.
Holiday Decorations
Disney World doesn’t go lightly on their holiday decorations. Animal Kingdom is no exception to this. The holiday decor at Animal Kingdom embodies both the spirit of the season and Animal Kingdom itself. The decorations might be more subtle here in certain areas than in other parks, but strolling about and finding photo spots is an easy and fun way to spend your day. Don’t forget to purchase Memory Maker so you can take holiday photos of the whole family to enjoy for years to come.
Have you ever visited Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the holiday season? What is your favorite thing about it? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured Photo: Megan Woodard
Written by
Megan Woodard
Contributing Writer
Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her two toddlers. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.
