A beautifully lit Christmas tree at Disney World glows against the night sky, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
Walt Disney World

Holidays at Disney World 2025

If you’re dreaming of a Disney Christmas, 2025 is bringing the magic in a big way. Whether you’re all about sparkling lights, festive snacks, or character meet-and-greets in holiday outfits, this season is packed with fun for families, foodies, and first-time visitors.

From November 14 to December 31, all four parks, Disney Springs, and the resorts come alive with decorations, music, and holiday magic. Here’s your full guide to what’s happening at Walt Disney World this season, including some money-saving offers you’ll want to grab.

🎄 Disney Holiday Promotions You Shouldn’t Miss

Friends toasting at a festively decorated table during the Christmas holidays at Disney World, surrounded by colorful lights and holiday garlands.

Disney’s rolling out a limited-time offer starting July 10. You can save up to 20% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels. Plus, when you add a 4-day or longer ticket, you’ll get up to a $100 Disney Dining & Shopping Card. That’s perfect for stocking up on snacks and souvenirs.

The deal is valid most Sunday to Thursday nights from October 12–November 20 and most nights from November 23–December 25. These savings won’t last, so set a reminder and book early.

✨ Magic Kingdom: Classic Christmas Magic

If you’re only visiting one park for the holidays, make it Magic Kingdom. The decorations are straight out of a storybook, and there are tons of can’t-miss moments:

  • Frozen Holiday Surprise: Watch Olaf and over 100 snowgies transform Cinderella Castle with wreaths, garlands, and a little magic from Elsa.
  • Jingle Cruise: The Jungle Cruise gets a festive twist with punny holiday jokes and themed decor from queue to river.
  • Holiday Parade & Characters: Even if you’re not attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you can still see Elsa in the “Disney Starlight” parade on non-party nights.

Main Street, U.S.A. is the best place to take those holiday-card-perfect family photos.

🌐 EPCOT: Holidays Around the World

Santa Claus and a festively dressed performer posing in front of a decorated Christmas tree with gifts during the Christmas holidays at Disney World, set against a rustic wooden backdrop.

EPCOT brings cultures together with the International Festival of the Holidays, running November 28 to December 30. Here’s what to look out for:

  • Candlelight Processional: A powerful retelling of the nativity story with a full choir and celebrity narrators.
  • Holiday Storytellers: Meet traditions from around the world, from Father Christmas in the UK to a magical barn Santa in Norway.
  • Cookie Stroll & Holiday Kitchens: Try festive treats from every corner of the globe and collect stamps on your Cookie Stroll passport to earn a sweet prize.
  • Living with the Land Holiday Overlay: A peaceful boat ride through greenhouses lit with twinkling lights.

Little ones will love Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt. Track him through World Showcase and earn a small prize.

🎬 Hollywood Studios:
Vintage Vibes and Sparkling Lights

A dinosaur statue in a Santa hat holding an ornament, next to a decorated Christmas tree and festive street lamp during the Christmas holidays at Disney World.

Hollywood Studios does Christmas with a splash of old-school charm.

  • Sunset Seasons Greetings: Tower of Terror turns into a snowy masterpiece with Muppets, Toy Story, and more.
  • Frozen Sing-Along Celebration: Great for younger kids and Frozen fans.
  • Toy Story Land Decorations: Woody, Jessie, and Buzz wear their holiday best.
  • Minnie’s Holiday Dine: A festive character meal with themed food, music, and decor. Book early—this one fills up fast.

🐾 Animal Kingdom: Wild Holiday Wonder

Guests enjoying the Christmas holidays at Disney World while meeting a festive blue and white penguin character in a decorated park setting.

Animal Kingdom brings a unique holiday vibe you won’t find anywhere else.

  • Merry Menagerie: Polar bear and penguin puppets mingle with guests on Discovery Island.
  • Tree of Life Awakenings: A nighttime projection show filled with wintery visuals and music.
  • Festive Character Outfits: Mickey and Minnie dress for the season at Adventurers Outpost.

It’s quieter here than the other parks, making it a great sensory-friendly day during a busy holiday week

🛍️ Disney Springs:
Shopping, Snowfall, and Sweet Treats

Visitors celebrating the Christmas holidays at Disney World in front of a large, decorated Christmas tree with falling snow and festive lights, holding a Mickey Mouse plush toy.

Disney Springs goes all-out for Christmas. It’s free to enter and has tons of holiday touches:

  • Christmas Tree Stroll: Walk through themed trees inspired by Disney movies and characters.
  • Live Entertainment: Toy soldier stilt walkers, a holiday drum line, and live music make every visit feel like a party.
  • Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar: A cozy spot with holiday snacks and themed drinks.
  • Santa Meet & Greet: Santa Claus makes daily appearances until December 24.

Don’t forget to pop into the Days of Christmas shop for ornaments and gifts.

🏨 Disney Resorts:
Gingerbread, Decor, and Cozy Vibes

An adult and child enjoying a festive carousel scene with wooden walls and stone decorations during the Christmas holidays at Disney World.

Even if you’re not staying at a Disney Resort hotel, they’re worth exploring during the holidays.

  • Grand Floridian: Home to the famous life-size gingerbread house.
  • BoardWalk Inn: Seaside-style Christmas with sweet treats.
  • Polynesian Village: A tropical twist on Christmas with laid-back decor and themed drinks.

Each resort has its own vibe, holiday displays, and sometimes even seasonal snacks. It’s a great way to take a break from the parks.

🎅 Santa at Every Park

Santa Claus posing with a child and adult in a festive setting with wooden walls and stone decorations during the Christmas holidays at Disney World.

Santa Claus will be making appearances at all four parks and Disney Springs right through to December 24. Check the My Disney Experience app for exact times and locations during your visit.

A Little Advice

Mickey and Minnie Mouse in festive adventurer outfits at Disney World's Adventurers Outpost, celebrating the Christmas holidays with themed decorations and garlands.

The holidays at Disney World can get busy. Use Lightning Lane passes (additional cost) for shorter wait times, plan a few sensory breaks during the day, and bring snacks or fidget toys for the kids.

Want help planning a holiday trip that works for your whole family, including those with autism or sensory needs? I’ve been there and can help you build a trip that’s both magical and manageable.

Ready for a Vacation That Fits Your Family?

Let’s make travel easier. I specialize in planning stress-free, sensory-friendly vacations for families like yours.

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