The Merry Magic of Disney: How the Parks Transform from Halloween to the Holidays
The magic of Disney lies in the small details and moments created by the thousands of cast members across Disney Parks globally. On the night of October 31, the final evening of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the cast members work tirelessly to transform the holiday decorations from the Sanderson Sisters to Santa Claus.
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Only taking a few hours to complete, cast members begin the Christmas Spectacular in Walt Disney World by filling the streets with Christmas trees, garlands, red bows, and icicle lights.
Along Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom, the bakeries and cafes update their seasonal offerings to include peppermint mocha and gingerbread treats. And of course, the Emporium gift shop is fully stocked with Christmas merchandise.
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In preparation for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, the Magic Kingdom is the first park cast members focus on, ensuring it is fully decorated for the holiday season by November 1.
Mickey’s Christmas Party begins on November 7. Throughout November other holiday events take place, such as ABC’s Christmas show and parade featuring Julianne and Derek Hough, which is filmed during the first two weeks of November—another reason the holiday transformation must be done so early in the Christmas season.
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Once Magic Kingdom is fully covered in its festive attire, the cast members continue the holiday excitement by decorating the three remaining parks, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios, for each park’s merry events.
Animal Kingdom celebrates Christmas with exclusive seasonal meet-and-greets, including Santa Claus and the Merry Menagerie puppets, starting November 12. Epcot hosts the Festival of the Holidays from November 29 to December 30. This event features the “A Celebration of the Season” performance, which celebrates Christmas and Kwanzaa, plus the Candlelight Processional and holiday storytellers throughout the World Showcase.
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Hollywood Studios has introduced a new holiday event called Jollywood Nights, similar to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This event features rare character meet-and-greets, special park admission, an ice skating show, Christmas photo opportunities, and more. Jollywood Nights runs from November 9 to December 21.
Disney World creates magic every day, but Christmas is an even more special time in the parks. During this season, there are countless opportunities for holiday celebrations. The cast members pour their love into creating a beautiful atmosphere and unforgettable experiences for guests throughout all the Walt Disney Parks.
Will you be visiting this holiday season? Leave a comment below!