There is something special about escaping to the great outdoors without ever leaving the magic of Walt Disney World Resort.

Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground feels like a destination all its own. From peaceful mornings surrounded by nature to evenings spent gathered around a crackling campfire, every stay offers a chance to slow down, explore, and create a Disney vacation that feels a little different from anywhere else.

Now, there are even more ways to enjoy a day at the resort, with an expanded Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area and a recently refreshed Reception Outpost that makes arriving at this beloved retreat feel smoother and more welcoming than ever.

Make a Splash at the Expanded Meadow Swimmin’ Pool Area

The Meadow Swimmin’ Pool has always been a favorite place to cool off between adventures, and the recently expanded area makes room for even more fun and relaxation.

A new zero-entry pool and additional deck space have been added alongside the existing pool, effectively doubling the space for all to enjoy. Whether guests prefer a relaxing swim, kicking back poolside, or heading straight for the 67-foot corkscrew waterslide, there are plenty of ways to make the most of a sunny resort day.

The rustic setting also includes a special nod to a piece of Walt Disney World history. Keep an eye out for an old-fashioned barrel carriage featuring Mickey Mouse in his camping gear and a tribute to Disney’s River Country, the original Walt Disney World water park that once welcomed guests next door to Fort Wilderness.

A Refreshed Welcome at the Reception Outpost

The resort experience begins from the moment guests arrive, and recent updates at the Reception Outpost help make that first welcome feel even more seamless and personal.

The refreshed space allows cast members to connect with guests as they arrive and help families get settled before heading out to explore everything Fort Wilderness has to offer.

Above the fireplace, new artwork adds a playful layer of Disney storytelling to the entry area, featuring Mickey Mouse and friends enjoying outdoor adventures along the water in a scene that feels right at home in the resort’s rustic setting.

As guests look up, they will also spot three playful scenes featuring Donald Duck’s nephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, enjoying some of the activities that make a Fort Wilderness stay so memorable, like archery, fishing, and camping beneath the trees.

Make a Day of It at Fort Wilderness

One of the best parts of a Fort Wilderness stay is that there are plenty of ways to enjoy a memorable day at the resort between theme park adventures.

Fort Wilderness Tip: After checking in, be sure to take a look at the resort recreation guide for a full list of available activities.

Feeling adventurous? Start the morning with a horseback ride along serene woodland trails, grab a paddle and explore the waterways by canoe, take in the scenery during Wilderness Back Trail Adventure or try the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience.

There are also plenty of simple ways to enjoy the natural scenery, whether cruising around the resort on a golf cart, hopping on a bike or taking a relaxing walk beneath the pine trees.

As the sun goes down, gather around the fire for Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long, where resort guests can roast marshmallows and spend time with two of their favorite Disney pals.

Looking to add even more singing, dancing, and laughter to your evening? We highly recommend making a reservation for Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue. It’s been delighting generations of guests at Pioneer Hall with lively entertainment and a country feast for more than 50 years, making it a can’t-miss experience during a Fort Wilderness stay.

More Reasons to Stay in the Magic

A day at Fort Wilderness can feel worlds away, but the rest of Walt Disney World Resort is still within easy reach.

Resort guests can take advantage of complimentary transportation, including watercraft and bus service, to help keep their vacation moving smoothly. Staying at a Disney Resort hotel also comes with conveniences like early theme park entry, giving you a 30-minute jump on your Disney day at all four theme parks with valid admission.

Whether planning a full resort day, winding down after a theme park adventure, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reconnect with family, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers a one-of-a-kind way to stay in the magic.

As a reminder, guests with deposits or final payments due have until Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 10:00 PM ET to make their payment.

NEW Cinderella Castle photography assets are available via marketing toolkits on Disney Copyright.

We encourage you to download these assets on DisneyCopyright.com. Additional assets will be available later this summer.

Set sail for Halloween thrills and holiday wonder on the Disney Treasure & Disney Fantasy sailing from Florida or the Disney Wonder sailing from San Diego.

See how the savings add up, with a maximum of 5 Guests per stateroom (subject to stateroom availability):

Select 7-Night Sailings

• Verandah Stateroom: Save $500 USD per person
• Oceanview Stateroom: Save $400 USD per person
• Inside Stateroom: Save $300 USD per person

Select Sailings for 6 Nights or Less

• Verandah Stateroom: Save $250 USD per person
• Oceanview Stateroom: Save $200 USD per person
• Inside Stateroom: Save $150 USD per person

Visit the Offers page for full Offer details. Marketing resources are available on Disney Copyright; search 'magic on the horizon.'

Sailing Dates available at launch

(Subject to change and availability)

Disney Wonder sailings from San Diego

• 10/3/26
• 10/18/26
• 10/22/26
• 10/27/26
• 11/2/26
• 11/5/26
• 11/9/26
• 11/16/26
• 11/22/26
• 11/29/26
• 12/4/26
• 12/11/26
• 12/18/26
• 12/22/26
• 12/29/26

Disney Fantasy sailings from Port Canaveral

• 10/18/26
• 10/23/26
• 11/1/26
• 11/6/26
• 11/15/26
• 11/20/26
• 11/29/26
• 12/4/26
• 12/13/26
• 12/27/26

Disney Treasure sailings from Port Canaveral

• 10/3/26
• 10/10/26
• 10/17/26
• 10/24/26
• 10/31/26
• 11/7/26
• 11/14/26
• 11/28/26
• 12/5/26
• 12/12/26
• 12/19/26
• 12/26/26

Online Check-in and Cruise Activity and Port Adventure bookings will also be unavailable. Guests with deposits or final payments due during this period will have until Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 10:00 PM ET. to make their payment. 

Overall, the system updates being implemented are internal improvements to the reservations technology that supports our operation. As valued partners, you should see little to no impact due to the changes. 

All systems will return to normal course of business on Friday, July 10, 2026.

Chaos is guaranteed when Stitch is around. In celebration of Stitch and 626 Day, guests can take advantage of a limited-time offer! For 4-days only, the discount on “Categories with Restrictions” will increase to 30% for select summer 2026 sailings from Florida. Act fast! This offer will be over before you can say 626!

• Bookable from June 26 through June 29 only.
• Valid on select sailings from mid July through late September 2026.
• Category reminder: this offer is valid on new bookings only and existing bookings cannot be modified into.
• Advisors should book online.
• Marketing resources are available on Disney Copyright. Search '626 Day'
• Click here for complete offer details.

Eligible Sailings*

*As of launch day; subject to change based on availability.

Disney Wish

Sailing from Port Canaveral, FL

• July 20, 2026
• Aug. 3, 2026
• Aug. 7, 2026
• Aug. 10, 2026
• Aug. 14, 2026
• Aug. 17, 2026
• Aug. 21, 2026
• Aug. 24, 2026
• Aug. 28, 2026
• Aug. 31, 2026
• Sept. 4, 2026
• Sept. 7, 2026
• Sept. 11, 2026
• Sept. 14, 2026
• Sept. 18, 2026
• Sept. 25, 2026
• Sept. 28, 2026

Disney Fantasy

Sailing from Port Canaveral, FL

• July 31, 2026
• Aug. 9, 2026
• Aug. 14, 2026
• Aug. 28, 2026
• Sept. 6, 2026
• Sept. 11, 2026
• Sept. 20, 2026
• Sept. 25, 2026

Disney Treasure

Sailing from Port Canaveral, FL

• Sept. 5, 2026
• Sept. 19, 2026
• Sept. 26, 2026

Disney Destiny

Sailing from Fort Lauderdale, FL

• Aug. 1, 2026
• Aug. 6, 2026
• Aug. 28, 2026
• Aug. 31, 2026
• Sept. 7, 2026
• Sept. 21, 2026
• Oct. 1, 2026

Disney Cruise Line is excited to give travel advisors a sneak peek at two exciting offers coming soon. This information is to help you plan accordingly, and should not be marketed or communicated publicly until each offer goes live.

Limited-Time Increase of Guaranteed with Restrictions Offer

From June 26-29, guests can enjoy 30% off on voyage fare for select summer 2026 sailings aboard the Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny.

For a limited time, the “Guaranteed with Restrictions” offer will increase for select sailings. As a reminder for this type of offer, it is valid only for new bookings – existing bookings cannot be modified into.

Per Person Savings on Voyage Fare for Select Sailings

Beginning June 30, Disney Cruise Line is launching a per person savings offer on voyage fare for select sailings aboard the Disney Wonder from San Diego and the Disney Treasure and Disney Fantasy from Florida.

This offer is for select sailings October through December 2026, including Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises. Savings will vary based on length of cruise and stateroom category.

Launch Dates

As a reminder, this is a sneak preview of two exciting offers your clients can enjoy. Please do not market or publicly communicate the offers until they are published on Disney Travel News on the following dates:

• Increased Guaranteed with Restrictions Offer: June 26
• Per Guest Savings on Voyage Fare: June 30

With two exciting offers in a short timespan, we anticipate the Disney Cruise Line contact center will experience a high call volume during this time. We recommend servicing all reservations online unless necessary to call in.

Disney+ Perks Members: Save on Select Packages

Disney+ Perks members save up to 25% on rooms and get free Park Hopper benefits added to their ticket when they purchase a 4-night, 4-day room-and-ticket package at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels this holiday season (and select dates this fall). Valid for stays most nights from:

• September 25 to October 8, 2026
• October 19 to 31, 2026
• November 15 to 28, 2026
• December 13 to 24, 2026

Find full offer details here.

Save Up to 20% on Rooms

Save up to 20% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season—for stays:

• Most Sunday to Thursday nights from October 4 to November 19, 2026
• Most nights (including weekends) from November 22 to December 24, 2026

Find full offer details here.

Florida Residents: Save Up to 25% on Rooms

Florida residents can save up to 25% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season—for stays select nights from October 19 to December 24, 2026.

Find full offer details here.

A Job Aid on these offers is available for travel advisor use only.

Marketing materials are available for download on Disney Copyright, including web banners, social assets, flyers, ad shells, postcards, webpages, imagery, approved copy, email template and webpage template.

There is a ton in store for this holiday season across Walt Disney World for kids, parents, grandparents and anyone looking to stir up some joyful fun.

Celebrating the holidays, “snow” in Florida, and Christmas cheer at Disney World means jolly-filled special events, like Disney Jollywood Nights and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It’s exploring traditions from around the world at EPCOT, dancing with the Merry Menagerie, and shopping for stocking stuffers at Disney Springs.

From November 13 through January 6, 2027, get ready to deck the halls as Walt Disney World comes to life with Christmas decor, themed food and beverage items, characters in festive outfits, special holiday entertainment, new holiday merch, new deals and discounts and so much more. 

Here’s everything guests need to know about the upcoming 2026 holiday season at Disney World and how to make the most of their cheerful visit.

Discover Nostalgic Holiday Fun at Magic Kingdom

As soon as guests pass through the Magic Kingdom park gates and have a clear view of Cinderella Castle from Main Street, U.S.A., guests will realize they are in the perfect spot to check a few items off the holiday bucket list.

Catch the Wintry Excitement During “Frozen Holiday Surprise!”

Guests can join “Frozen” friends from Arendelle as Olaf and over 100 of his snowgie siblings add garlands, ornaments, wreaths and more to Cinderella Castle during “Frozen Holiday Surprise!” 

With appearances from Anna, Kristoff, and a magical moment from Elsa as she transforms Cinderella Castle into a glowing ice palace, this show is a dazzling nighttime experience that guests won’t want to miss. 

Catch Elsa and many other Disney characters in Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away a spectacular parade, available twice each night (subject to cancellation).

Please note that Disney Starlight will not be performed on evenings when Magic Kingdom hosts Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. On those nights, guests can enjoy Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. Disney Starlight will continue to light up the park throughout the holiday season on non-party nights - because, after all, the cold never bothered us anyway.

Witness Stunning Holiday Decor Across the Park

Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic holiday picture spots across Walt Disney World, with plenty of beautiful areas to snap a photo worthy of a Christmas card. 

With jolly holiday trimmings and touches along Main Street, U.S.A. and throughout the park, guests can smile, snap, and share their perfect photos along a bright and merry Main Street and at other iconic Disney World locations such as Cinderella Castle, TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise, Space Mountain, and Haunted Mansion throughout their multi-day vacation.

Take Little Ones on the World-Famous Jingle Cruise

The world-famous Jingle Cruise returns in 2026 for a festive-yet-familiar adventure, as a trusty skipper expertly navigates guests through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Guests may hear and see plenty of holiday-themed gags along their 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that goes on for Niles and Niles and Niles, and should keep a close ear as skippers guide them through the jungle with a boat full of jolly pun-filled fun.

Yet the fun starts as soon as guests enter the queue. Before boarding the canopied tramp steamer, they'll see that the skippers have also decorated the loading area with plenty of lights, sights, and sounds for the holidays.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

On select nights, guests can celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. At this separately ticketed event, guests will enjoy festive entertainment, overlays on classic rides, a storybook holiday atmosphere, sweet treats and so much more! Check out the Disney Travel News for more information.

Explore Holiday Traditions from Around the World at EPCOT

Included with guests theme park ticket, from November 27 through December 30, 2026, guests can travel around EPCOT for seasonal offerings and good times at the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. 

With fan-favorite holiday flavors from around the world, entertainment that is sure to put a smile on guests face and attractions that delight time and time again, EPCOT is the ultimate family destination for guests staying at Disney World this winter. Bells will be ringing and choirs will be singing, so make sure to bring cameras (and an appetite) when entering this cheerful park.

For more information, be sure to check out Disney Travel News.

Celebrate a Cinematic Christmas at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios brings the perfect amount of touching holiday charm to multi-day trip to Walt Disney World in 2026.

Gaze in Wonder During “Sunset Seasons Greetings”

As night falls, experience the return of “Sunset Seasons Greetings” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with nightly holiday projections. 

Get ready to play the music and light the lights each evening, as holiday magic transforms the famous Hollywood Tower Hotel into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a Toy Story toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle and a Dickensian village from Mickey’s Christmas Carol.

Sing Along at “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration”

Once entering the Hyperion Theater, guests can drift over to their seat and listen as the Royal Historians of Arendelle recount the frosty story of their enchanted kingdom. Watch closely as thrilling moments from the movie play on-screen and cheer as Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff join to sing along with the audience.

With projected lyrics making it easy for young kids to sing along, witness a flurry of stories, celebratory songs of the season and an unforgettable holiday finale featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf.

Snap a Photo with Favorite Friends Dressed for the Season

Beautiful, vintage decor is adorned everywhere throughout Hollywood Studios, including Echo Lake, Sunset Boulevard, and more. However, for an up-close way to spot some fun decor and toys, step into the world of Andy’s backyard and head to Toy Story Land to find larger-than-life seasonal decorations and friends dressed in seasonal attire. 

Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear from Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story are dressed up in their holiday best during this time of the year, so make sure to swing by, take a picture fit for a holiday card and say “hey, howdy, hey” to these toys!

See Minnie Mouse and Friends at Minnie’s Holiday Dine

Spot Minnie Mouse and friends at Hollywood & Vine during Minnie’s Holiday Dine, which hosts sensational soirees that mix festive music, decor, and tantalizing menu items. Guests of all ages can celebrate the holidays with additional Disney Characters perfectly dressed for the season, while munching on great dishes. 

Selections include oven-roasted herbed chicken, carved beef tenderloin, seared salmon, spice-rubbed pork loin, and a plant-based roasted mushroom-farro risotto. Make sure to save room for some showstopping desserts as well, including seasonal bread pudding, Mississippi mud pie, and more.

Minnie's Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine

Advance reservations are highly recommended for this fun, holiday experience and same-day reservations can be made on a limited basis (subject to availability), so make sure to book early to secure a spot!

Revisit Holiday Favorites at Walt Disney Presents

Walt Disney Presents is shining for the season with a holiday installation celebrating favorite Disney stories. Guests can explore festive displays featuring props and artifacts from beloved holiday films. Plus, the attraction’s theater will take on a seasonal twist with a limited-time experience, showcasing holiday-themed short films including Walt Disney’s On Ice, Pluto’s Christmas Tree, and The Art of Skiing starring Goofy.

Discover Wild Seasonal Fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Are your clients looking to take a festive journey on the wild side this holiday season? They can careen through snow-capped Himalayan peaks on a speeding train while avoiding the mythic Yeti on Expedition Everest or stick to more traditional holiday activities like greeting Disney characters in festive attire. Disney’s Animal Kingdom has something in store for guests of all ages during the upcoming holiday season.

Spot Polar Puppets During the Merry Menagerie Around Discovery Island

For a truly enchanting holiday experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom amidst beautiful holiday decor, artisan-sculpted puppets of arctic animals come to life around Discovery Island during the Merry Menagerie. Kids and families alike can spot penguins, reindeer, foxes, and polar bears, setting up the perfect photo opportunity for guests' yearly holiday card.

In addition, original artwork from artist Rob Kaz will be available at Island Mercantile in Discovery Island throughout the holiday season. Kaz will also greet guests inside Island Mercantile from November 1 through November 22, so make sure to swing by to see his beautiful Disney-themed artwork.

Watch in Awe During the “Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition”

A dazzling visual display full of bright colors and animated imagery, the “Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition” lights up Animal Kingdom as the majestic centerpiece of the park comes to life every day after the sun sets in Discovery Island. 

Accompanied by a series of wintry tales and a heartwarming holiday-inspired musical score, this holiday evening experience is sure to delight and inspire guests' whole family tree. The show begins at sunset and occurs approximately every 10 minutes until the park closes.

Meet Disney Characters in Adventurous, Holiday Attire

At Adventurers Outpost, guests can meet and pose for a photo with world travelers Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at their exploration headquarters, dressed in their best holiday outfits.

Be Surrounded by Holiday Cheer at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is the place to find classic Disney merchandise, souvenirs, and trends from some of the world’s most popular brands during the holidays, as well as world-class restaurants, casual eateries, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and unforgettable fun.

Spot Snowfall and Take a Walk Around the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll

Disney Springs is the perfect spot for holiday shopping, alongside dazzling decorations and the popular Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth. Discover a wide collection of extravagantly decorated Christmas trees throughout Disney Springs, including elaborately themed Christmas trees inspired by Disney, Pixar Animation Studios, and Star Wars favorites.

For even more fun once guests can check out the magical nightly snowfall in the Town Center. Yes, even central Florida gets in on the wintry fun during this sensational time.

Sip and Snack at Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar  

As the story goes, Indiana Jones and his easygoing pilot Jock Lindsey stumbled on Disney Springs in 1938 while chasing down a mythology-based tip in Central Florida. Before long, this home base became a popular stopover and watering hole for world travelers and locals alike, full of dusty mementos of glorious holidays gone by. Today, thrill-seeking families soak up the rugged charm of the Holiday Overlay at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, with its spare airplane parts, salvaged equipment and plenty of holiday decorations.

This winter, the bar will serve up select seasonal bites, brews, and libations for guests looking for a joyful time between shopping at World of Disney and catching a new film at the AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-In Theatres.

Listen to Live Music and Encounter Holiday Fun

During the holiday season, Disney Springs will enter into a winter wonderland full of festive roaming entertainment.

On select nights, guests will find a rotating lineup of regional and local bands playing live tunes on first-come, first-served seating at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage, just a quick stroll away from a variety of grab-and-go snacks.

With a warm Joffrey’s coffee in one hand and some cheesy, melty goodness from The Daily Poutine in the other, this is the place to be on a chilly night surrounded by good friends and lively music.

Guests can stop by Disney’s Days of Christmas and World of Disney, where they can find a wide range of cheerful holiday collections.

Greet Santa at Disney World

In between his busy schedule, Santa Claus will also swing by each of the four theme parks across Disney World to meet guests on the nice list this holiday season. To put the bow on top, Santa Claus will also be stopping by Disney Springs through December 24, where guests can take festive photos and share holiday wishes with jolly old St. Nick.

Spot Christmas Decorations and More across the Disney Resorts Collection

With more than 25 hotels to choose from in the Disney Resorts Collection, there are plenty of ways to make this holiday season special for guests. With special offers, stunning decor, and countless moments of joy, there’s so much to see and do at each of the Disney Resorts Collection hotels during the holiday season. 

Look Out for Larger-than-Life Holiday Decor

Are your clients looking to take Instagram-worthy pictures with Christmas trees and joyful decorations? Or are they looking for a place to exchange gifts with family members while soaking in the sounds of peaceful holiday music? For guests staying at the resorts or for those with valid dining reservations, the Disney Resorts Collection offers a wide array of bright and merry holiday decor.

Many Disney Resorts Collection hotels offer themed food and beverage items during the holiday season, such as special holiday treats.

Book Special Offers for Merry Holiday Savings

Have your clients celebrate the best time of the year in the Disney Resorts Collection. Staying on property comes with conveniences that make vacation days feel simpler from start to finish, including complimentary transportation, early theme park entry and more.

Eligible Disney+ subscribers enrolled in the Disney+ Perks* program can receive a free Park Hopper add-on and save up to 25% on rooms when purchasing a 4-night, 4-day room-and-ticket package. This offer is available to book beginning June 25 for stays from September 25-October 8, October 19-31, November 15-28, and December 13-24. For more information, please visit disneyplus.com/perks. 

Guests can also save up to 20% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season. This offer is available to book starting June 25 for stays October 4-December 24.

There are special deals for Florida Residents and Annual Passholders, too! Booking starts on June 25. Florida Residents can save up to 25% for stays October 19-October 31, November 15-November 28 and December 13-December 24. Annual Passholders can save up to 30% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season from October 4-December 24.

There’s plenty of fun to be had as clients ride their favorite attraction and sing their favorite Disney song this holiday season.

Valid theme park admission required for park entry.

*This offer is available to Disney+ subscribers with Disney+ Perks. The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on non-discounted price for the same package. Proof of Disney+ subscription required. Must be 18+ to subscribe to Disney+. 

The lights! The music! The treats! And the magic of the holidays! It’s all coming back with the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth. The month-long celebration is the perfect way to be immersed in the spirit of the holidays, and we’re filled with joy to share details about this year’s tinsel-filled festival.

The holidays are all about traditions, and the teams at EPCOT spend all year curating festive holiday fun tied to global traditions so that guests can create new traditions of their own. Here’s how your clients can enjoy the celebration at this year’s EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Dates

The dates for this year’s festival have been tucked away in a “confidential” box for a while, but now it’s time to rip off that wrapping paper!

The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth will return November 27 – December 30, 2026.

Beyond EPCOT, holiday magic decks the halls all over Walt Disney World, including all four parks, Disney Springs and many of our resort hotels, and the best tip we can share is to start planning ahead now. Theme park tickets and lodging reservations are already available to book during the holiday season.

Holiday Traditions with World Showcase Storytellers

Storytelling is at the heart of the holiday season and is one of the important ways we build bonds between generations, connecting through tales and legends passed down for hundreds of years. Guests can experience this tradition with the Holiday Storytellers throughout World Showcase.

Each day of the festival, these storytellers will bring holiday tales to life, entertaining and educating guests on how diverse cultures celebrate this special season.

Where guests can find storytellers:

• Mexico Pavilion – Las Posadas Celebration
• Norway Pavilion – A Mischievous Magical Barn Santa
• China Pavilion – Chinese Lion Dancer and Si-Zhu Trio
• Germany Pavilion – Adventskalender
• Italy Pavilion – La Befana
• Japan Pavilion – Daruma Storyteller
• Between the Morocco and France Pavilions – Hanukkah Storyteller
• France Pavilion – Père Noël
• United Kingdom Pavilion – Father Christmas
• Canada Pavilion – Canadian Holiday Voyageurs

Santa Sightings Around EPCOT

Guests hoping to share their holiday wishes are in for a treat as Santa Claus will be making special appearances during the festival! Guests may spot him traveling around World Showcase, greeting guests and spreading cheer along the way. Guests can see Père Noël telling the story of Babette and her Christmas letter in the France Pavilion, Barn Santa in the Norway Pavilion and, in CommuniCore Hall, Santa will be greeting guests with a jolly, “ho-ho-ho.”

Goofy will be also be dressed in his holiday best and ready to pose for jolly photos full of seasonal fun at The Odyssey.

EPCOT Holiday Decor

EPCOT shines extra bright during the holiday season, with festive decor transforming every corner of the park. From twinkling lights and garlands to beautifully decorated trees inspired by global traditions, each World Showcase pavilion offers its own unique holiday flair. It’s the perfect backdrop for photos and making magical memories with loved ones.

Gingerbread Spaceship Earth Display

Be sure to check out the Gingerbread Spaceship Earth display and countdown celebration presented by Citizen, where culinary artistry and holiday magic come together in a deliciously detailed creation. It’s a must-see (and must-smell!) experience that celebrates one of EPCOT’s most iconic landmarks. Guests can gather for the Celebration Countdown presented by CITIZEN, where the dazzling display lights up every 15 minutes, featuring new song and light shows with holiday flair. 

Festival of the Holidays Shows and Entertainment

Candlelight Processional

A beloved holiday tradition returns with the Candlelight Processional at America Gardens Theatre. This heartfelt retelling of the Christmas story features celebrity narrators, accompanied by a mass choir and full orchestra. Performances are held nightly, with multiple showtimes to give guests plenty of opportunities to experience this inspiring classic.

Be sure to stay tuned for the announcement of this year’s celebrity narrators and more information about Candlelight Processional Dining Packages!

JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season

Tell your clients to get ready to clap along and feel the rhythm of Christmas and Kwanzaa with JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season. This high-energy performance blends gospel, jazz, and R&B to highlight holiday traditions with a lively, soulful twist. It’s a musical celebration that’s sure to have everyone smiling.

Voices of Liberty Dickens Carolers

The beloved Voices of Liberty return in festive fashion as the Dickens Carolers, performing classic holiday tunes in the style of Victorian-era England. Their rich harmonies and timeless charm make this a can’t-miss performance during your clients visit.

Festival Kitchens: Holiday Food and Beverage

Foodies, rejoice! Holiday Kitchens will once again serve up a delicious assortment of seasonal bites and beverages from around the world. Each location offers a unique menu inspired by holiday traditions, making it easy to snack through the season.

Holiday Cookie Stroll

The fan-favorite Holiday Cookie Stroll is back. Purchase five qualifying cookies from select Holiday Kitchens and collect corresponding stamps in the Festival Passport. Once all five have been gathered, redeem a special treat.

It’s a sweet way to explore the festival and a delicious tradition that guests return for year after year.

Holiday Overlays and Festive Features

Living with the Land - Glimmering Greenhouses

Hop aboard a festive version of Living with the Land during Glimmering Greenhouses! This relaxing boat ride is transformed with twinkling lights and seasonal decor throughout the greenhouses, offering a peaceful and beautiful holiday experience with a unique EPCOT twist.

Lights on Spaceship Earth

As night falls, Spaceship Earth comes to life with dazzling holiday lighting. The iconic geodesic sphere shines with festive colors and dynamic effects that add even more sparkle to a evening at EPCOT.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt

Join Olaf on a festive adventure with Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt! Search throughout World Showcase to find Olaf as he discovers holiday traditions from around the globe. Purchase and complete the scavenger hunt and receive a fun holiday keepsake.

Scentsy’s Festive Fragrances: A Sensory Wonderland

Festive Fragrances presented by Scentsy returns for its third year with all-new fragrances celebrating holidays around the world from Noche Buena to Diwali.

Along the walkway between the Imagination! pavilion and World Showcase, get ready to explore this charming garden of snow globes infused with scents that bring the magic of fragrance and the holidays to life.

From heartwarming traditions and joyful performances to festive flavors and sparkling decor, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays truly captures the spirit of the season.

Let the holiday countdown begin!