Disney World During Christmas: What To Expect

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at the most magical place on Earth! Disney World during the holiday season is an incredible experience that all guests should experience at least once. The weather is mild, the decorations are stunning, and the special ticketed events cannot be missed. A Christmas vacation is the perfect way to spend time with your family this year, and many guests consider a visit to Disney World part of their holiday tradition. If you have an upcoming visit to Disney World during Christmas then continue reading for what you can expect to experience.

Holiday Season

The holiday season at Disney World begins on November 1st and ends after New Year’s Day. Guests who are arriving on November 1st might not be able to see every decoration right away though most will be up and ready to view. Guests who stay after New Year’s Day might also catch a few lingering decorations here and there.

The holiday season at Disney World means that characters are dressed in festive holiday clothing, Christmas trees and other decorations can be found throughout all 4 parks and Disney resorts, and seasonal holiday treats are available to try. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts will run during this time where guests can enjoy learning about the holidays in other cultures at World Showcase, going on the Cookie Stroll, seeing attractions like Living With the Land dressed up for Christmas, and enjoying special meet and greets with Santa. Guests of Animal Kingdom will also be treated to the Merry Menagerie puppets, characters in holiday garb, and seasonal treats to try.

Special Ticketed Events

There are two special ticketed events that run during the holiday season at Disney World. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party occurs at Magic Kingdom on select nights through November and December. This event begins after the park closes to the general public with party guests able to enter as early as 4pm. The party runs until midnight and features several exclusive events like a Christmas parade, holiday stage show, party-exclusive treats, and merchandise. Guests are also welcome to free cookies and hot cocoa in stations located throughout the park.

Disney Jollywood Nights is another ticketed event that takes place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This event runs on select nights with early entry around 4pm and an ending time of midnight. Guests of Jollywood Nights can expect a special Muppets performance, a Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-along, themed entertainment throughout the park including an ice skating performance, rare character encounters, party-exclusive treats and merchandise, and so much more.

Crowds

When visiting Disney during the holiday season you should expect crowds to be at a higher level. The general rule of thumb is that the closer you get to Christmas Day the more crowded it will become, with Magic Kingdom being known to reach capacity on Christmas Day. Guests who are bothered by large crowds should be aware of this and perhaps even make plans to spend Christmas Day at their resort.

Weather

The weather during Christmas season in Florida can be quite unpredictable. Guests who are arriving in November, December, or January should pack layers so they are able to dress for the cold or heat. Typically, winter in Orlando can be chilly during the morning and hot during the afternoon. Guests should take care in packing their clothing and be prepared for any weather.

Do you enjoy visiting Disney during the holidays? What is your favorite time of year to vacation at Disney World? We want to hear your experience in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray