Walt Disney World is always magical, but there’s something about holiday music and decorations that make this time at the theme parks even more special. We all know about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, but there are plenty of holiday-themed activities and celebrations in the theme parks that don’t require a separate ticket.
Animal Kingdom
Discovery Island
In addition to park-wide decorations, Discovery Island will feature meetings with holiday animal puppets, such as polar bears and reindeer. At night, watch the Tree of Life awaken with new winter-themed light shows.
Pandora
Visit the Pongu-Pongu drink stand to see how human researchers have brought a bit of Earth to the world of Pandora. You can enjoy Animal Kingdom’s celebrations starting today, November 8.
Epcot
International Festival of the Holidays
Beginning November 29, this festival includes international holiday kitchens offering cookies, traditional holiday food from various countries, and more. Kids can join Chip and Dale on a Christmas scavenger hunt ($6.99 fee). Make sure to catch some of the seasonal performances, such as JOYFUL! celebrating Christmas and Kwanzaa through song.
Candlelight Processional
Perhaps one of Disney’s oldest and most popular traditions, a 50 piece orchestra, celebrity narrators, and volunteer choir join forces to tell the Christmas story in a dazzling display. You can check the celebrity narrator schedule here.
Hollywood Studios
Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
From November 8-January 5, guests can enjoy this multifaceted fireworks spectacular at Hollywood Studios! This exciting show utilizes lights, projections, lasers, and even a little snow to tell the stories of Beauty and the Beast, Mickey’s Christmas Carol, Nightmare Before Christmas, and more!
Sunset Seasons Greetings
If fireworks aren’t your thing, you can catch the holiday projection show on the Hollywood Tower of Terror!
Magic Kingdom
Jingle Cruise
Enjoy this seasonal overlay on a beloved attraction. Even the animals are getting into the holiday spirit. You can book a trip on the Jingle Cruise today.
© Disney 
© Disney
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
Beginning December 23, this brand new fireworks show will be included with general park admission. This show is designed to be enjoyed from almost anywhere in the Magic Kingdom, and it includes some classic holiday songs like, Deck the Halls and We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Before December 23, this show will be playing in the parks only during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event nights.
A Frozen Holiday Wish
Nightly castle lighting ceremonies featuring Elsa and Anna have already begun. Depending on actual sunset and the party schedule, these times might vary – so check your park schedule!
In addition to these special offerings, look out for holiday character meet and greets and, of course, lots of beautiful decor! Happy holidays!
