The holidays at Walt Disney World Resort mean more memories and the most magic. It’s where visions of sweet gingerbread dreams come to life, twinkling lights illuminate your path, and families slow down to soak in the magic of Christmas. If you still need more reasons to book your holiday vacation, keep reading. We’re sharing our top reasons to celebrate the most wonderful time of year in the most magical place on earth.
1. Frozen Holiday Surprise at Magic Kingdom
Watch Cinderella Castle come to life in a flurry of magic during the “Frozen Holiday Surprise,” a dazzling nighttime show that features Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and friends. With sparkling lights, enchanting music, and a breathtaking transformation of the castle, this heartwarming spectacle is a must-see moment that captures the spirit of the season—and makes for unforgettable holiday memories.
2. The Return of Jingle Cruise
Guests of all ages will love the holly-jolly transformation of the Jungle Cruise into the Jingle Cruise—a festive, laugh-filled ride complete with holiday-themed jokes, decorations, and jungle cheer. It’s a must-do family favorite with punny memories just around the riverbend.
3. Celebrate Traditions Around the World + The Real Christmas Story at EPCOT
Waltz through the International Festival of the Holidays where Holiday Storytellers, seasonal treats, and musical performances bring Christmas traditions from around the world to life. Don’t miss Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition — a playful scavenger hunt that delights kids and adults alike. Plus, EPCOT is home to one of our favorites… the Candlelight Processional. Experience the true meaning of Christmas as celebrity narrators, choirs, and a full orchestra share the real story of Christmas.
4. Immersive Magic at Special Holiday Events
Experience two special events! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom is pure holiday enchantment, where snow falls on Main Street, parades dazzle, and fireworks bring Christmas dreams to life. Guests can sip hot cocoa, enjoy cookies, and meet beloved characters in their holiday best.
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney Jollywood Nights delivers a glam, after-hours celebration inspired by vintage Hollywood, featuring jazzy entertainment, specialty treats, and exclusive character encounters over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Perfect for a holiday date night or a festive gathering with friends!
Tickets go on sale for these separately ticketed events to confirmed resort guests on July 16.
5. Christmas Cinema Comes to Life at Hollywood Studios
From “Sunset Seasons Greetings” transforming the Tower of Terror with projections, to Toy Story Land dressed up in whimsical décor, every corner is camera-ready. End the day dining with Disney characters at Minnie’s Holiday Dine — it’s festive fun for all ages.
6. Wild and Wonderful Holiday Moments at Animal Kingdom
The Merry Menagerie at Discovery Island is pure storybook magic, featuring artisan-crafted animal puppets dancing and delighting in the snow. After dark, the “Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition” wraps your evening in glowing beauty and music.
7. Disney Springs: Shop and Sip Under the Snowfall
Wander through the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, sip cocoa under the magical snowfall, share your wishlist with Santa, and discover festive eats at Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar. It’s the ideal place for finding last-minute gifts, making memories, and soaking up the atmosphere together.
8. Holiday Magic at the Disney Resorts
The joy isn’t limited to the parks. Even your hotel becomes part of the story with dramatic gingerbread displays and holiday decor. From towering Christmas trees to the Victorian Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian and life-sized gingerbread carousel at Disney’s Beach Club, you’ll have no shortage of sweet treats and photo worthy backdrops. Every stay feels like home for the holidays!
9. Gift-giving made easy
Booking a Walt Disney Vacation Package through Joyful Journeys takes the stress off of planning for the holiday season. You’ll check off your entire Christmas list with one magical gift. Enjoy the Christmas season and make memories with your loved ones. Leaving the planning to us!
The Magic Starts with Your Free Vacation Conversation
With early theme park entry and exclusive evening hours for Deluxe Resort guests, this is the year to make Disney your new holiday tradition. When you stay at a Disney Resort hotel during the holidays, the magic never stops — and with the 2025 holiday offer, the savings make it even sweeter. Beginning July 10, you can save up to 20% on rooms at select Disney Resorts for stays most nights Oct. 12–Dec. 25, and even get up to a $100 Disney Dining & Shopping Card when adding 4-day (or longer) theme park tickets. Don’t forget you can make it even more memorable by adding Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and/or Jollywood Nights tickets to your package too!
Contact your Joyful Journeys Vacation Designer for happy planning — and the happiest holidays!
