The holiday season is one of the most magical times to visit Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resorts. With twinkling lights, festive decor, and special seasonal activities, each resort transforms into a magical wonderland with unique experiences. Here’s a guide to celebrating the holidays at DVC resorts, including must-see gingerbread displays and other holiday offerings.
Must-See Holiday Displays
From life-size edible creations to intricately themed ornaments and lights, the stunning displays at DVC resorts and Walt Disney World Parks are a must-see for guests looking to immerse themselves in the magic of the season. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic and breathtaking holiday displays you won’t want to miss.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
The life-size gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a breathtaking holiday centerpiece. Crafted with over 10,000 pieces of gingerbread, this stunning creation is not just a visual delight but also doubles as a charming market selling festive baked goods, including its famous gingerbread shingles. This year, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this iconic display, 25 hidden Mickeys are cleverly tucked into the intricate design, see if you can find them all! Don’t forget to snap some photos of this edible masterpiece, which smells just as heavenly as it looks.
While you’re there, be sure to admire the towering Christmas tree in the lobby. Nearly four stories tall, this majestic tree is adorned with snowflake ornaments featuring numbers and illustrations inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas. The elegant design and festive charm of the tree make it a must-see highlight during the holiday season.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The Contemporary Resort showcases a stunning gingerbread castle inspired by the Cinderella Castle dream lights, making it a must-see display. Towering over 17 feet tall, this masterpiece is adorned with glittering details, intricate chocolate sculptures, and whimsical touches that will enchant guests of all ages. Be sure to look closely for 13 hidden Mickeys and the iconic 5-legged goat, a nod to the resort’s famous mural. Don’t leave without picking up a limited-edition pin, cookie jar, or holiday ornament to commemorate your visit!
Additionally, prepare to be amazed by the Contemporary’s impressive 70-foot-tall Christmas tree. Weighing over 33,000 pounds, this massive tree features 1,200 individual branches decked out with 16,000 shimmering lights and more than 200 custom light-up ornaments. The combination of modern elegance and festive charm makes this display unforgettable.
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
This tropical paradise gets a festive makeover with surfboards, lutes, and carved turtles nestled into its Christmas tree and garlands. Stroll the resort to spot wreaths on tiki statues and enjoy the Polynesian-inspired decorations that blend seamlessly with the holiday spirit.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Don’t miss the Beach Club’s famous gingerbread carousel, complete with spinning horses crafted entirely from gingerbread and chocolate. Each year it features a unique theme, and this year is no exception. For 2024, the characters from “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” will be brought to life by the talented Yacht and Beach Bakery. Keep an eye out for the 24 hidden gold Mickeys placed throughout the display and take a piece of the magic home with a limited-edition pin, cookie jar, or holiday ornament.
Disney’s BoardWalk Resort
The gingerbread display at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort perfectly encapsulates the nostalgic charm and festive spirit of this beloved location. This intricate creation features a delightful miniature boardwalk scene, complete with the iconic BoardWalk Deli and whimsical holiday touches. Every detail, from the tiny gingerbread shingles to the chocolate embellishments, is crafted with precision, making this display a must-see stop on your holiday journey.
Don’t forget to hunt for hidden surprises baked into the display and enjoy its irresistible holiday aroma. Before you leave, commemorate your visit with exclusive holiday merchandise, including a limited-edition pin, cookie jar, and ornament, perfect mementos to relive the magic of the season.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The gingerbread giraffe and baby zebra at Animal Kingdom Lodge combine the resort’s African-inspired decor with holiday cheer. Ginger, the baby giraffe, and Debra, the baby zebra stand nearly 7 ft tall in these life-size gingerbread displays. These animals are a unique and beautiful twist on the classic display.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Fort Wilderness Resort transforms into a rustic holiday wonderland during the festive season. The resort’s natural charm is enhanced by festive touches, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The tree, which almost touches the ceiling, features a blend of natural-style decorations, classic ornaments, and Native American-inspired artwork. It’s the perfect blend of nature, tradition, and holiday cheer!
EPCOT
A new 2024 addition, an 8-foot-tall Gingerbread Spaceship Earth, can be seen at EPCOT’S CommuniCore Hall. The EPCOT Festival Team and Walt Disney Imagineering have teamed up to create this spectacular display, which took over 160 hours. It even lights up and features a music show that runs throughout the day.
Seasonal Activities and Entertainment
Beyond the gingerbread creations and decor, DVC resorts host a variety of holiday-themed activities and entertainment that add extra magic to your stay.
- Holiday Crafts and Activities
Many resorts offer seasonal crafts like making your own stockings and creating an ornament at their Community Halls. These activities are perfect for families looking to create keepsakes together. - Movies Under the Stars
Cozy up under the twinkling lights for holiday-themed Movies Under the Stars. Watch Disney favorites like The Santa Clause or Frozen with complimentary blankets and hot cocoa at select resorts. - Special Poolside Games
Even during winter, poolside fun continues at the heated pools. Holiday-themed games and trivia keep the festive spirit alive.
The holiday season at Disney Vacation Club resorts is truly a magical time filled with enchanting displays, festive activities, and heartwarming experiences that create lasting memories for the whole family. From life-size gingerbread masterpieces to towering Christmas trees and holiday crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Celebrate the season with Disney magic and create traditions you’ll treasure for years to come!
Written by
Marissa Coffta
Marissa’s lifelong enchantment with Disney magic began in her childhood and has continued to flourish. She is a mom to 3, who frequently embarks on solo or family adventures to Disney World. Currently living out of state, she takes many modes of transportation to experience the wonder of Disney firsthand. Her fervent passion for writing fuels her with the hopes of bringing the world of Disney to life, making the magic a part of her world.
