The holiday season at Walt Disney World is a special time, and for many, the highlight is the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. From November 28 through December 30, 2025, the park transforms into a global celebration of seasonal traditions, complete with festive entertainment, unique character experiences, and an incredible array of food and drink.
This guide provides a detailed look at everything you can expect from this year’s festival, from the dates and entertainment schedules to the special activities that make this event a cherished part of the holidays at Walt Disney World.
Live Entertainment and Performances
Live entertainment is a cornerstone of the Festival of the Holidays, with performances throughout the day and evening that bring the spirit of the season to life.
The Candlelight Processional
A beloved tradition, the Candlelight Processional returns to the America Gardens Theatre. This moving performance tells the story of Christmas, featuring a celebrity narrator accompanied by a 50-piece live orchestra, the Voices of Liberty, and a mass choir. Performances are held nightly at 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:15 PM. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can fill up quickly, especially for more popular narrators. To guarantee a seat, you can book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package, which pairs a meal at a select EPCOT restaurant with reserved seating for one of the evening’s shows.
Holiday Storytellers
As you travel around the World Showcase, you will encounter Holiday Storytellers who share the unique traditions and tales of their respective countries. These short, engaging performances offer a wonderful look into how the holidays are celebrated around the globe.
Performances include:
- Mexico: Las Posadas Celebration
- Norway: A Mischievous Magical Barn Santa
- China: Chinese Lion Dancer
- Italy: La Befana, the kindhearted witch who brings gifts to children
- Japan: The Daruma doll and Japanese New Year traditions
- France: Père Noël, who shares a heartwarming Christmas letter
- United Kingdom: Father Christmas
- Canada: The Canadian Holiday Voyageurs musical group
- Between Morocco and France: A Hanukkah Storyteller
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the SeasonGet ready to feel the rhythm with JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season. This uplifting concert series features the vocal group D’Vine Voices performing a mix of gospel, jazz, and R&B arrangements of holiday classics that celebrate both Christmas and Kwanzaa. You can find their stage near the front of World Showcase Plaza.
Festive Activities and Attractions
Beyond the scheduled shows, the festival offers plenty of activities and special touches that add to the holiday atmosphere throughout the park.
Character Greetings and Festive Hubs
You can meet Santa Claus himself inside the festively decorated CommuniCore Hall. This area will also be home to a stunning gingerbread display of Spaceship Earth. Over at The Odyssey pavilion, you can find Santa Goofy spreading cheer, and the building will be transformed into the “Glittering Grove” with an elegant display of holiday trees presented by Balsam Hill.
Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition
This family-friendly scavenger hunt sends guests on a quest to find Olaf figures hidden throughout the World Showcase pavilions. You can purchase a map and sticker set from various merchandise locations. As you find each Olaf, you place the corresponding tradition sticker on your map. Once complete, you can return your map to Creations Shop or World Traveler for a special prize.
Living with the Land – Glimmering Greenhouses
The Living with the Land attraction receives a festive overlay for the season. The boat ride through the greenhouses is enhanced with twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations, turning this educational journey into a peaceful and beautiful holiday experience.
Holiday Kitchens and the Cookie Stroll
A major draw of the festival is the array of Holiday Kitchens serving seasonal food and drinks from around the world. In addition to savory bites, the festival hosts the Holiday Cookie Stroll. By purchasing five designated cookies from various kitchens and collecting a stamp for each in your Festival Passport, you can redeem your completed passport for a special completer cookie and treat.
Exclusive Festival Merchandise
No EPCOT festival would be complete without exclusive merchandise to commemorate your visit. For 2025, the collection is themed around Figment in his cozy holiday sweater. Key items to look for include:
Holiday Sweater Ear Headband
A cozy ear headband inspired by Figment’s sweater, complete with a removable bow.
Figment Novelty Bag
A character-shaped bag perfect for carrying your festival essentials.
Festival of the Holidays Ornament
A collectible ornament featuring Figment, perfect for your tree at home.
Plan Your Festive Visit
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays offers a rich and immersive experience that combines global culture, festive entertainment, and seasonal flavors. From the powerful music of the Candlelight Processional to the fun of searching for Olaf, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app during your visit for the most up-to-date showtimes and character locations to make the most of your holiday adventure.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
