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What Are Some Of The Best Places To Eat During The Holidays At Disney World
For those looking to enjoy a magical Christmas dining experience at Disney World, there are plenty of great options to choose from. From fine dining establishments like California Grill to character meals like Cinderellas Royal Table, theres something for everyone. Guests can also enjoy holiday-themed buffets and special menus at many of the resorts restaurants. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as these experiences are extremely popular and often sell out well in advance.
Christmas At Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom is home to Walt Disney World featured Christmas eventDisney Very Merriest After Hours . This ticketed event is held on select evenings throughout November and December. It features unique entertainment , snacks , and character sightings. The first after hours event of 2021 is on November 8 and the last party is December 21.
Magic Kingdom is also decorated heavily for Christmas beginning in early November. In 2019, most decorations went up between November 2 and November 7 . Through that same link, youll find information on Magic Kingdoms holiday merchandise, snack, and show offerings.
Magic Kingdom historically offers some unique holiday experiences. First, Jungle Cruise is usually transformed to the holiday-themed Jingle Cruise, and we dont expect the recent updates to the ride to impact that.
Past years included the nightly show A Frozen Holiday Wish, which is also when the castle is lit up with icicles for the evening. Unfortunately, with the castle being reimagined for the 50th Anniversary celebrations its expected those lights and the Frozen show will not be a part of the 2021 celebration.
In the past, the Trolley Show and Mickeys Royal Friendship Faire got holiday touches beginning in early November. Since 2021 has yet to see the return of those pieces of entertainment return, I dont expect them to be a part of the holiday celebrations.
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Where Are The Best Free Disney World Christmas Decorations
Its the most wonderful time of the year! And what better place to celebrate than at the happiest place on earth? Disney World is decked out in its holiday best during Christmastime, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy the festive decorations without spending a lot of money. Here are some of the best places to find free Disney World Christmas decorations:
The first stop for anyone looking for free Disney World Christmas decorations is Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom. This iconic street is transformed into a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, complete with twinkling lights, gingerbread houses, and even a giant Christmas tree. Best of all, guests can enjoy all of the decorations while they stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. free of charge!
Another great place to find free Disney World Christmas decorations is at Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge. This lodge is decorated with beautiful African-inspired holiday decor, and guests can enjoy live music and dance performances from the balcony of their room free of charge. Guests can also take a stroll around the lodge to see the animals enjoying their own special holiday feast.
So whether youre looking for a festive place to take some holiday photos or just want to enjoy the Christmas spirit, be sure to check out these great places for free Disney World Christmas decorations!
Feel The Spirit Through A Joyful Performance
Watch JOYFUL! bring down the house with their gospel celebration of the season. Just know that this group of singers are some of the BEST on Disney property PERIOD!
This year you can catch them on the Showcase Plaza Stage as they honor the holiday traditions of Christmas and Kwanzaa.
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Things To Do In Disney Springs For Christmas
Are you ready to celebrate Christmas at Disney Springs? If so, you can delight yourself in the shopping, dining, and holiday entertainment available for you this year! Not to mentioned the delectable seasonal treats and the fun Christmas tree scavenger hunt.
The streets of Disney Springs come alive with carolers, Christmas décor, a holiday dance party and holiday performers.
There are also lots of dining and shopping locations for you to get lost in during the holidays at Disney Springs.
But, the bestpart about enjoying the season in Disney Springs is the Christmas Tree Trail.
Do A Themed Dining Experience
You can dine with Santa in a few locations at Disney Springs at places such as:
- Breakfast with Santa at T-rex on December 11th
- Breakfast with Santa at Rainforest Café® at Disney Springs Marketplace on December 18
- Jock Lindseys Holiday Bar: The holiday takeover is returning this yearwith a magical twist! on December 11
Theme Park Hacks at Your Finger Tips. Plan your next vacation with the latest tips and tricks on the ThemeParkHipster App.
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Is Epcot Decorated For Christmas
Yes, Epcot is decorated for Christmas. The event features festive decorations, holiday-themed shows, and a special fireworks display. Guests can also enjoy holiday-themed food and drink at the World Showcase. Epcots Disney World Christmas is a great time for families to celebrate the holidays together. The event is also a great opportunity for
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays One of the best things about Epcots Disney World Christmas is the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. This event features holiday celebrations from around the world. Guests can learn about different cultures and customs, and enjoy holiday-themed food and drink. Be sure to check it out while youre visiting the park this Christmas!
- Epcot Candlelight Processional Another must-see event during Epcots Disney World Christmas is the Epcot Candlelight Processional. This event features a special performance of holiday music by a celebrity narrator. Be sure to check it out while youre visiting the park this Christmas!
- Holiday Fireworks One of the best things about Epcots Disney World Christmas is the holiday fireworks display. This special event is a must-see for any fan of fireworks. Be sure to check it out while youre visiting the park this Christmas!
Hollywood Studios Disney World Christmas
Christmas time is a special time at Hollywood Studios Disney World. The whole park is decorated with lights and Christmas trees. There is a special stage show with all of the Disney characters dressed in their holiday best.
Santa Claus even makes an appearance! Its truly a magical experience for both young and old. And of course, no visit to Hollywood Studios would be complete without taking a ride on the famous Tower of Terror. So whether youre young or old, make sure to check out Hollywood Studios during the Christmas season!
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How Long Do Christmas Decorations Stay Up At Walt Disney World
Cant make it to Disney World before New Years Day? If youre thinking, Is Disney still decorated for Christmas in January?, youll be happy to hear that you can be walking in a winter wonderland up until around the first week of January.
For reference, Christmas decorations at Walt Disney World started to disappear by January 5, 2020, and were fully gone by the time the Disney Marathon Weekend concluded on January 12. In 2022, Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is scheduled for January 5 to January 9, 2022.
Watch Sunset Greetings On The Hollywood Tower Of Terror Hotel
The SunsetSeasons Greetings is a projection show that takes place at the park andfeatures some pretty cool light and laser effects complete with falling snow atSunset Boulevard.
The event is meant to mesmerize you with all the colorful lights and stories showing snowy Arendelle, the Muppets, a Toy Story toy hotel, and a Dickensian village inspired by Mickeys Christmas Carol.
Youll also see the hotel transforms into the Beacon of Magic in honor of the 50th Anniversary Celebration in between its holiday décor!
The holiday show will also alternate with the towers nightly transformation into a Beacon of Magic.
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Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth On The Holiday Cookie Stroll
Do the Cookie Stroll which allows you to go to a few select locations where you buy a cookie and get your passport stamped with a special design.
How does the EPCOT Holiday Cookie Stroll work?
All you have to do is buy a cookie from EACH of the five holiday kitchens notated on the Festival Passport. After you have tasted every cookie listed on your itinerary, you will return your stamped passport to the Holiday Sweets & Treats kitchen to receive a special cookie.
Epcot Holiday Cookie Scavenger Hunt Locations:
- Yukon Holiday Kitchen: SNICKERS®-Doodle Cookie made with SNICKERS bar pieces
- LChaim! Holiday Kitchen: Black and White Cookie
- American Holiday Table: Chocolate Crinkle Cookie made with DOVE® Dark Chocolate
- Bavaria Holiday Kitchen: Linzer Cookie
- Holiday Hearth Desserts: Gingerbread Cookie
Disney World Christmas Day Events
Christmas is a special time of year at Disney World, with festive decorations and holiday-themed events throughout the resort.
On Christmas Day itself, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, whether youre looking for family fun or a romantic evening out. For families with young children, Santa Claus will be making appearances throughout the day at various locations around the resort.
There are also special Christmas shows and parades, including the popular Disney Dreams nighttime show where the castle is transformed into a magical winter wonderland. For couples or groups of friends, there are festive dining experiences available, as well as unique holiday-themed tours of the park.
No matter how you spend your Christmas Day at Disney World, youre sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Santa Claus appearances throughout the day at various locations around the resort
Special Christmas shows and parades, including the popular Disney Dreams nighttime show where the castle is transformed into a magical winter wonderland
Family fun activities such as meet and greets with characters in their festive outfits, photos with Santa, and special holiday decor
Unique tours of the park that focus on the holiday decorations and history of Christmas at Disney World
Festive dining experiences available, including character meals and holiday-themed buffets
Opportunities to shop for unique Christmas gifts at the many stores and kiosks throughout the resort
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Disney’s Hollywood Studios Christmas Events In 2021
Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine
Minnie Mouse once again hosts a yuletide gathering for all her friends at Hollywood & Vine. Santa Goofy returns, along with Minnie and more in their holiday best. The holiday version runs from Nov. 4, 2021 to Jan. 3, 2022.
Sunset Seasons Greetings
Sunset Seasons Greetings lit-up Tinseltown returns with its colorful projections and laser effects! As snow falls, Sunset Boulevard twinkles and favorite faces come to life. Look above as the billboards begin to move into motion and tell a tale brought to you by iconic characters sharing their love for the season. Look down to see the Hollywood Tower Hotel come to “light” as it tells the stories of these characters. Catch the show, which runs intermittently throughout the night and will alternate with the new Beacon of Magic projections for the 50th anniversary.
Special Entertainment
Catch Santa cruising down Hollywood Boulevard in a festive motorcade! And be sure to check out For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration for a special festive finale featuring Olaf.
Echo Lake Holiday Decor
Be on the lookout for the extra-large ornaments, colorful garland and a giant Christmas tree centered on the water at Echo Lake. Even Dinosaur Gertie is dressed for the occasion with a dino-sized Santa hat and a special 50th-anniversary ornament dangling from her mouth. So cute!
Toy Story Land Holiday Fun
Christmas Shopping At Disney Springs
While in Disney Springs at Christmas time, be sure to check out the Disney Days of Christmas. This Disney Springs Christmas store is available all year round, but its extra special around Christmas time. One of the main draws to the store is the personalization station, which is great for that perfect ornament to commemorate your holiday trip to Disney. We started a travel tree with our son, so we couldnt resist getting an ornament to memorialize his first trip to Disney.
The World of Disney store at Disney Springs is also fully decked out in red and green. In addition to decorations within the stores, the window decorations are also updated for the holidays.
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Disney Springs Holiday Events For 2021
At Disney Springs, Christmas and holiday cheer can be found around every corner. The holiday season is my favorite time to visit Disney Springs. Highlights include loads of decorations, great music, live entertainment, and festive food and drink.
The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll brings elaborately decorated Disney Christmas trees to the neighborhoods throughout Disney Springs. This stroll used to be a trail in one section of Disney Springs, but as of last year it is now spread throughout all of Disney Springs. You can pick up a guide to the Christmas Tree Stroll at the Welcome Center in the heart of Disney Springs.
Practically every Disney Springs restaurant has at least one holiday drink or a holiday treat. Jock Lindseys Holiday Bar has returned with yuletide touches alongside festive food and craft cocktails. This is another one of my favorite holiday experiences in all of Walt Disney World.
Best Time To Visit Walt Disney World Resort During The Holidays
Before we dive into the merriment, let’s start with perhaps the most important topic: The best time to visit during Christmas at Disney World. Many people plan their visits to Disney World at Christmas years in advance. The 2020 season was, ahem, special, to put it mildly, and while many people who had already planned trips had decided “not this year,” many are now thinking “let’s go to Disney World!” We highly recommend you start thinking about purchasing tickets and reserving Disney Park Pass reservations as soon as you’re able when it comes to the holiday season! While capacity is increasing, park pass reservations are here to stay, so you will need to pick which park you’ll visit each day of your trip ahead of time.
In general, we think any time you can visit Disney World is a good time to visit Disney World. We’re always excited when we’ve got our bags packed and are headed to the Most Magical Place on Earth. However, there are better times to visit than others during the holiday season. The busiest days of the year hoppen around Disney World holidays. In terms of crowds, here are the busiest days of the season:
- The week of Thanksgiving, including Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving
- The week of Christmas, including Christmas Day
- The week of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Here is a short list of more required reading if you’re headed to the parks during these times:
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Holiday Events In 2021
Best for: Unique decorations, nighttime experiences
Over the years, Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s holiday events have increased.
My favorite holiday experience in all of Walt Disney World is making a return this year. Merry Menagerie features winter animals realized as life-sized, artisan-sculpted puppets. Reindeer, foxes, polar bears, penguins and more interact with guests, accompanied by musicians.
Goofy, Chip n Dale and other Disney character friends journey along the park’s Discovery River aboard boats with festive flair and cheerful music Santa is a part of the fun too!
And on nights when the park is open after dark, the Tree of Life dazzles guests. Wintry tales are told through lovely animations projected onto the park’s icon accompanied by a holiday-inspired musical score.
Icon Orlando At Christmas Time
Icon Park is another great place to visit if youre in Orlando at Christmas time. The entire complex is decorated for Christmas, making it another great spot to see Christmas lights in Orlando. Icon Orlando also offers Santa visits and a holiday themed train ride. My son in particular loved the train and the grassy area to run around.
If youre looking for fun things to do in Orlando besides Disney, Icon Orlando should be high on your list. During our last visit to Orlando, we had a blast at SeaLife Orlando and The Wheel. The SeaLife aquarium focuses on conservation efforts, and there are several rescued marine mammals on site. If youre going to SeaLife in Orlando with a toddler, there are several tunnels to run through and hands-on areas to explore. If you happen to be visiting SeaLife at Christmas like us, be sure to look for the diver dressed as Santa!
The Wheel is another one of the most popular things to do at Icon Orlando. This slow moving, enclosed ferris wheel takes you up 400 feet in the area for the best views of Orlando and beyond. While we went during the day on this trip, Id love to ride it at night to see the Orlando Christmas lights throughout the city.
In addition to The Wheel and SeaLife, there are several other attractions at Icon Park. See here for more information
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