As the holiday season approaches, Disney Parks around the world are gearing up to offer guests an unforgettable festive experience. From the return of beloved events like Disney Jollywood Nights at Walt Disney World to the debut of new holiday outfits for Mickey and Minnie at Disneyland, there’s something magical in store for everyone. Whether you’re planning to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, or even embark on a Very Merrytime Cruise, this guide will provide you with all the details and tips you need to make the most of your holiday visit to the Disney Parks.
Walt Disney World Brings Back Jollywood Nights and More Holiday Events for 2024
To mark the Halfway to the Holidays celebration, Walt Disney World Resort is buzzing with festive updates. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney Jollywood Nights will return on select evenings from November 9, 2024 to December 21, 2024, featuring seasonal decorations, live performances, and a new skating show. Over at Magic Kingdom Park, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will once again delight guests with a festive parade, fireworks, and holiday treats on select nights from November 8, 2024 to December 20, 2024. Meanwhile, EPCOT will host the International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth, offering global holiday traditions, seasonal flavors, and heartwarming performances from November 29, 2024 to December 30, 2024.
Disneyland Unveils 2024 Holiday Attire for Mickey and Minnie
The holiday season at Disneyland Resort kicks off on November 15, 2024, bringing back beloved traditions like the Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park, along with special overlays on attractions, seasonal shows, and festive decorations throughout the resort. In celebration of Halfway to the Holidays, Disneyland has revealed a sneak peek of the new holiday outfits for Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. These charming new outfits, inspired by the tradition of writing heartfelt letters during the holiday season, feature striped stockings, detailed embroidery, and festive postal trims.
Discover Festive Holiday Merchandise
Get ready to jingle all the way to the holidays with Disney’s 2024 holiday merchandise. Starting in early September, new apparel, plushies, and more will be available, including festive Mickey ears, spirit jerseys, and holiday mugs perfect for hot cocoa.
Very Merrytime Cruises on Disney Cruise Line
This winter, Disney Cruise Line will offer more Very Merrytime sailings, bringing the holiday spirit to the high seas. Guests can enjoy a tree-lighting ceremony, dance to carols during Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party, and experience a magical snow shower at sea. Disney characters will be dressed in their holiday finest, and the ship will be adorned with seasonal décor, offering activities and treats for the whole family.
Christmas at Hong Kong Disneyland
Celebrate “A Disney Christmas” at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort from mid-November through January 1, 2025. This year, join Queens Anna and Elsa at World of Frozen for an Arendelle-style holiday celebration. Guests can also meet Duffy and Friends in their new holiday outfits, enjoy the “Mickey and Friends Christmastime Ball,” and participate in the “A Holiday Wish-Come-True” Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Returning Favorites at Disneyland Paris
Experience a winter wonderland at Disneyland Paris from November 9, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Enjoy the return of “Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade,” “Let’s Sing Christmas!,” and the magical tree lighting and snowfall on Main Street U.S.A. Guests can also meet Santa and beloved characters, and savor French comfort food at the Christmas food markets. The newly reopened Disneyland Hotel will also join the celebration with magical surprises and beautiful holiday decorations.
Tokyo Disney Resort Celebrates Disney Christmas
From November 8 to December 25, 2024, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea will host the “Disney Christmas” event. Guests can enjoy festive decorations, seasonal treats, and exclusive merchandise, making it a uniquely Disney-styled Christmas celebration.
Sing Along with Holiday Vinyls and Seasonal Music
Get into the holiday spirit with the Disney Holiday playlist from Walt Disney Records, featuring songs from beloved Disney characters, Disney Channel Stars, The Muppets, and more. For collectors, Disney Music Emporium offers holiday vinyl records like The Nightmare Before Christmas Zoetrope vinyl and the Frozen Zoetrope vinyl.
12Ks of Christmas with runDisney
The 2024 runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas is back, offering a series of 4K races perfect for a festive jog with friends and family. Participants can look forward to festive finisher medals and a touch of holiday Disney magic.
Disney Eats
From June 24, 2024 to June 26, 2024, enjoy a new Frozen Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Frozen Hot Chocolate drink at Wetzel’s Pretzels in Downtown Disney District. This holiday classic features rich Ghirardelli hot cocoa granita topped with a snowy layer of soft whip, with an optional peppermint twist.
Tips for Visiting Disney Parks During the Holidays
Visiting Disney Parks during the holiday season can be a magical experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your holiday visit:
1. Plan Ahead
- Make Reservations Early: The reservation system is still in place, and dates can sell out quickly. Purchase tickets and reserve your dates as early as possible, ideally up to 180 days in advance.
- Dining Reservations: Secure dining reservations up to 60 days in advance to avoid long lines and ensure you have a place to rest and enjoy a meal.
2. Arrive Early
- Beat the Crowds: Arrive at the parks early each day to take advantage of lower crowd levels and shorter wait times for popular attractions.
- Locker Rentals: If you plan to stay in one park all day, rent a locker early to store any extra clothing or items you might need later.
3. Manage Expectations
- Expect Crowds: Mentally prepare for large crowds and long lines, especially during peak times like the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
- Focus on Atmosphere: Instead of trying to go on a large number of rides, take time to enjoy the holiday decorations, shows, and parades. Attractions like the Mad Tea Party, Carousel, and PeopleMover often have shorter wait times.
4. Utilize Time-Saving Tools
- Virtual Queues: Use virtual queues for popular shows and attractions to save time and avoid long waits.
- Mobile Ordering: Take advantage of mobile ordering for food and beverages to skip the lines and enjoy more time exploring the parks.
5. Take Breaks
- Schedule Downtime: Plan some downtime during your trip to relax and recharge. Consider taking a day off from the parks to explore other activities or simply rest.
- Relaxing Attractions: Visit shows and attractions with shorter wait times and air-conditioned waiting areas to take a break from the crowds and heat.
6. Enjoy Holiday-Specific Experiences
- Special Events: Attend special holiday events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or Disney Jollywood Nights for unique entertainment and festive experiences.
- Holiday Dining: Book a holiday-themed meal at restaurants that go all-out for the holidays, such as Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine or Liberty Tavern.
7. Capture the Memories
- Take Photos: Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to capture the magical holiday decorations and special moments with characters in their festive attire.
By following these tips, you can navigate the holiday crowds and make the most of your visit to Disney Parks during the most festive time of the year. Enjoy the magic and have a wonderful holiday season!
Final Thoughts
The holiday season at Disney Parks is a time of enchantment, joy, and unforgettable memories. With a variety of festive events, dazzling decorations, and special holiday merchandise, there’s no better place to celebrate the magic of the season. By planning ahead, arriving early, and taking advantage of time-saving tools, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Whether you’re exploring the winter wonderland at Disneyland Paris or singing along to holiday tunes at Tokyo Disney Resort, these tips will help you make the most of your holiday experience at Disney Parks. Enjoy the magic and happy holidays!