2024 archive — reviewed October 13, 2026. The dates, locations, menus, and entertainment below describe the 2024 holiday season. They are not current booking information. Activities began on different dates; November 12 was not a single start date for every holiday offering.
For a future trip, start with our Walt Disney World Planning Guide. Our updated Christmas party itinerary and Jollywood Nights strategy explain the separate evening events.
Historical reading note: References below to “this season” and returning experiences refer to 2024. Original photographs may illustrate earlier visits; the credits are retained.
Magic Kingdom Park: Where Holiday Dreams Come True
Magic Kingdom brings the holidays to life with twinkling lights, seasonal shows, and festive overlays that can’t be missed. The park’s iconic decorations on Main Street, U.S.A., transport guests to a nostalgic winter wonderland, complete with the delicious scents of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. At Magic Kingdom theme park, guests can experience the following:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights from November 8 to December 20. This separately ticketed event features the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show, and the spectacular, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Make sure to grab some complimentary holiday treats as you explore, take pictures with all your favorite characters in their holiday best, and enjoy some special holiday ride overlays!
- Frozen Holiday Surprise lights up the night as Elsa transforms Cinderella Castle into a glistening palace. Keep your MagicBand+ ready for added magical effects during the show.
- Jingle Cruise sets sail on November 2, bringing holiday cheer and pun-filled jokes to the Jungle Cruise attraction.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Tinsel Town Takes Over
Hollywood Studios brings together classic holiday charm and new festive experiences. From Sunset Boulevard to Toy Story Land, the holiday spirit shines brightly. Here are some of the things guests can experience at this theme park:
- Jollywood Nights brings extra razzle-dazzle on select evenings. This separately ticketed event combines holiday music, festive drinks, and entertainment, including the return of the Hollywood Hotel’s beloved “Tip Top Club” and so much more!
- Sunset Seasons Greetings lights up the Hollywood Tower Hotel with holiday projections featuring scenes from “Toy Story,” “Frozen,” and “Mickey’s Christmas Carol,” along with magical snowfall.
- Holiday Spirit Band and Juggling Elves perform live throughout the park, while Olaf joins the cast for a festive finale at “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration.”
- Toy Story Land Transformation is sure to bring fun for the whole family as guests shrink down to toy size in Andy’s decorated backyard. Guests might even get a chance to greet their favorite Toy Story friends, all dressed in their holiday best.
EPCOT: A Celebration of World Traditions
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, from November 29 to December 30, 2024, invites guests to celebrate the season with a global flair. The park is decked out in vibrant decorations, while Holiday Kitchens offers a taste of festive foods from around the world. Here are some of the returning favorites coming to EPCOT this holiday season:
- Candlelight Processional at the America Gardens Theatre brings the Christmas story to life, narrated by celebrity guests and accompanied by a full choir and orchestra.
- JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season brought gospel, R&B, and holiday music to CommuniCore Plaza in 2024.
- Holiday Storytellers share the traditions and tales of various cultures throughout the World Showcase. The festival offered a glimpse into global holiday celebrations, from Mexico’s Las Posadas to Japan’s Daruma customs.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Wild Holiday Magic
Animal Kingdom theme park adds its own unique holiday charm, blending nature with seasonal fun. From delightful animal puppets to enchanting nighttime awakenings, the park offers family-friendly experiences perfect for everyone, especially younger guests. Enjoy all of the following and so much more are Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Merry Menagerie returns, with puppet performers showcasing beautiful winter animals like seals, penguins, and reindeer. Snap some photos and interact with these adorable creatures near the Tree of Life.
- Meet Mickey and Minnie in Festive Fashion! Blend joy with adventure by meeting Mickey and Minnie dressed in their holiday attire at Adventurers Outpost. Perfect for a fun family photo!
- Santa Claus made an appearance at the 75th Annual Dino Institute Holiday Party. In 2024, guests met him on the Restaurantosaurus patio from November 12 to December 24. This is a historical location, not advice to visit that location today.
- As night falls, enjoy the Tree of Life Awakenings! This returning nighttime show features wintery displays that bring the animal spirits to life with stunning lights and colors.
Disney Springs: A Festive Shopping and Dining Experience
For those who love holiday shopping and dining, Disney Springs is a must-visit; especially during the happiest time of the year!
- Wander through the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, where themed Christmas trees inspired by beloved Disney stories create a magical atmosphere. Keep an eye out for your favorites, from “The Lion King” to “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
- Seasonal bites and drinks are available throughout, including Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar, a waterfront spot decked out with holiday decorations.
- Nightly snowfalls make the perfect backdrop for photos and live, holiday entertainment, ensuring even more holiday magic for guests of all ages.
Gingerbread Displays and More at Disney World Resorts
The Disney Resorts aren’t just for resting after a day at the parks; they’re destinations for holiday experiences on their own! Several resorts feature intricate gingerbread displays, crafted by Disney’s pastry chefs. Take a gingerbread crawl to explore these edible works of art and enjoy festive decorations unique to each hotel. See our 2024 gingerbread display archive for the historical locations.
Santa Claus Sightings
Santa will be busy making appearances throughout Walt Disney World. Catch him at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during Jollywood Nights, Magic Kingdom during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs for a chance to share holiday wishes and capture memorable photos.
Season’s Eatings and More Holiday Treats
Indulge in festive treats available at various dining locations throughout the Disney property. From gingerbread cookies to seasonal hot drinks, there’s something to satisfy every holiday craving wherever you go!
runDisney’s Virtual 12Ks of Christmas
For fitness enthusiasts, the runDisney Virtual 12Ks of Christmas event offers three virtual 4K races. With race medals that double as holiday ornaments, this festive event is a great way to stay active during the season. Participants will also receive digital tools, a festive hooded shirt, and a holiday-themed CORKCICLE mug. This was a 2024 virtual event, not an activity that required a park visit. Its original registration is no longer current.
Plan your next Disney holiday vacation
Fairytale Journeys Travel advisors can help their clients compare dates, hotels, and available tickets. Their planning services are complimentary to their clients. Current availability determines which experiences can be booked.
Historical source: Disney’s 2024 holiday guide. For the narrator schedule from that year, see our 2024 Candlelight Processional lineup.
