How to Celebrate Christmas at Disney World
Last Updated on January 22, 2024 by Allison Lancaster
This year marks Disney’s 50th anniversary, which could only possibly mean one thing. This Christmas season at Disney will be even more spectacular than the last! There’s also never a better time for your kids to meet Mickey Mouse and some of their most-beloved Disney characters than during the holidays. But before you visit, there are a few things to keep in mind. Keep reading to find out how to celebrate Disney World at Christmas.
When does Christmas Start at Disney World?
The fun and festivities of the Christmas season will begin on November 12th, 2021 at each of Disney’s theme parks. Disney’s theme parks will be decked out in Christmas decorations, while hosting extravagant holiday parades, along with delicious holiday-themed treats that you’re sure to enjoy.
Does Disney World Close on Christmas?
While most stores and businesses have their doors closed on Christmas Day, Disney keeps their’s open! And we’d be willing to bet that there’s probably no better place on earth (besides grandma’s) where your family would rather celebrate. However, you do need to realize that each of Disney’s theme parks will be at its peak on that day and there’s really no way to avoid the crowds.
Must-Do at Disney World at Christmas
Disney Very Merriest After Hours
On select nights between November 8th and December 21st, your family won’t want to miss out on this year’s Disney Very Merriest After Hours celebration that’s recently replaced Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. The holiday event provides ticket holders with access to Disney’s Magic Kingdom as early as 7 p.m, up until 1 a.m, while featuring fireworks, Disney character sightings, a themed parade, and so much more!
Candlelight Professional 2021
One of Disney’s most popular traditions that visitors have come to love over the years, is the Candlelight Processional. Accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra, a celebrity narrator tells the Christmas story in an inspiring and beautiful way. No special tickets are required!
The Jingle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise at Disney’s Magic Kingdom is getting a holiday makeover this year, and for a short time will be appropriately dubbed the Jingle Cruise. Even if you’ve already ridden this boat ride several times in the past, you’ll notice a significant and exciting difference that makes it worth doing again!
International Festival of Holidays
From November 26th until December 30th, Epcot’s International Festival of Holidays is one of Disney’s holiday events that celebrate foods, customs, and traditions from all around the world. This event has become extremely popular over the years, and you won’t regret getting your family in on the action.
Track Down Santa Claus
From November 12th up until the end of December, your kids will have a chance to meet with Santa Claus and tell him what they want for Christmas. They’ll be able to spot him at each theme park location, whether he’s riding in a red convertible on Hollywood Boulevard at Hollywood Studios, or sitting on his sleigh in the Magic Kingdom.
This year’s Christmas celebration at Disney is sure to be a good one! So don’t waste a perfect opportunity to make your family’s Christmas extra magical this year by bringing them to Disney World!
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