As a Floridian, I was lucky enough to spend many days at Disney World as I grew up. My family took frequent trips there throughout my childhood, and it’s still one of my favorite places in the world. For those who don’t know me, I am a Disney nut and pride myself on my knowledge of all things Disney. One of the most magical times to be at Disney World is during the holiday season, when the parks come alive with holiday spirit. For those of you who aren’t as familiar with Disney World as me, there are four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each park is decorated for the holidays, and many cultures from around the world are represented.
Magic Kingdom: Imagine (and look at the picture of) Cinderella’s castle covered in thousands of icicle lights– something only Disney could create! A huge Christmas tree is also put up near the front of the park, and holiday decorations can be found just about everywhere. The best part of the holidays at Magic Kingdom is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a late night event held in the park. Since Disney World is in Florida, the winter weather isn’t as nippy as we’re used to in Massachusetts, though it can get pretty cold! During the Christmas party, there are special parades and shows, tons of free hot chocolate, and “snow” on Main Street.
Epcot:In its World Showcase of countries, Epcot celebrates the holidays and traditions of many cultures, including Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, the United States, France, Japan, Italy, the UK, and Canada. Each “country” is decorated and different speakers in each country explain their holiday traditions. For example, in France, Pere Noel tells traditional French stories and in Italy, La Befana talks about her first Christmas 2000 years ago. Hanukkah and Kwanzaa can be found in the United States pavilion, as well as a meet and greet with Santa Claus. Listening to the storytellers is both fun and educational- their acting and stories are always entertaining. Epcot also holds a nightly Candlelight Processional,where a celebrity speaker narrates the Christmas story and is accompanied by a choir (fun fact: my high school choir sings at the Candlelight Processional every year).
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Hollywood Studios (known to us Disney loyalists as its old name- MGM Studios) is famous for its annual display of the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights(not the Ozzy and Sharon Osbournes!). The Osborne Family maintained the fantastic display of lights at their home until they donated it to Disney World in the 1990s. Over 5 million lights dazzle the backlots of Hollywood Studios, and many of the lights are coordinated to music played by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Christmas just isn’t complete for me without watching millions of lights dance to a spirited medley of holiday music. It’s hard to describe the magic of this event, but you can catch a glimpse of it here.
Animal Kingdom: Animal Kingdom celebrates the beauty of nature and wildlife largely in Africa and Asia. As you walk into the park during December and January, you’re greeted by a huge Christmas tree, decorated with different animal ornaments. The whole park is decorated, but more subtly and naturally than the other three parks. Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade, a special holiday event, is always exciting for little kids (and let’s face it, us too).
So basically, Disney World is the most magical place on Earth, especially during the holidays. If you don’t like Disney or disagree with me, don’t talk to me. Just kidding (kind of), but at least fake your Disney love when you’re around me!