The most wonderful time of the year has officially begun to take shape at Walt Disney World Resort! Even though the official start of the Disney World holiday season is scheduled for November 12, guests are already witnessing the spectacular, rapid-fire transformation across the theme parks and resort hotels.
If you’ve ever wondered when the magic truly starts, the answer is: sooner than you think! Decorations begin to appear almost immediately after the last Halloween celebration ends—and sometimes even before!
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Here is a look at the decorating progress across the four main theme parks:
Magic Kingdom: An Overnight Marvel
True to tradition, Magic Kingdom receives its Christmas makeover with astonishing speed. Immediately following the end of Halloween celebrations, the park is transformed overnight:
- The towering 60-foot Christmas tree is already standing tall at the entrance to Main Street, U.S.A.
- Festive garlands and wreaths now adorn the shops lining Main Street.
- The overall atmosphere has shifted from spooky to spectacular, showcasing festive decor throughout the park.
Adding to the nightly cheer, in early November the “Frozen Holiday Surprise” show returns. Guests can watch as Olaf and the Snowgies decorate Cinderella Castle for Elsa, who then surprises them all by transforming the castle into a gorgeous, glistening icy palace.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Stars Align Early
Hollywood Studios got a slight head start on the holiday spirit!
- Bright Christmas stars are already installed along Sunset Boulevard, leading the way to the Hollywood Tower Hotel.
- Guests can also see the large, sparkling ornaments floating in Echo Lake, giving the area an immediate festive look.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Wildly Festive
Animal Kingdom is also looking very festive right out of the gate, focusing on decorations that incorporate the park’s natural aesthetic:
- The iconic 45-foot Christmas tree is fully decorated and situated outside the park entrance.
- Garland and wreaths featuring unique, animal-themed touches are visible lining the entrance sign, shops, and light poles inside the park, a favorite detail among frequent visitors.
Epcot: Post-Festival Transformation
Epcot typically waits to decorate until one of its major festivals concludes.
- The park will not be fully decked out for Christmas until after the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival ends, which is scheduled for November 20.
- However, the festive spirit is starting to creep in: the Living with the Land attraction has already begun installing its seasonal holiday overlay, much to the delight of guests. Expect the rest of Epcot’s decorations to appear quickly after the Food and Wine Festival wraps up.
Resort Hotels and Gingerbread Glory
The magic extends far beyond the parks, as the resort hotels are also starting to receive their stunning holiday decor.
A massive undertaking and one of the most beloved Disney World resort Christmas traditions are the elaborate gingerbread houses and displays. Bakers begin the prep and baking process for these grand, edible masterpieces as early as May and continue all the way through November, making these festive structures truly a labor of holiday love.
Visitors heading to the Walt Disney World Resort in the coming weeks are encouraged to explore not only the theme parks but also the beautiful, unique decorations at the various resort hotels to fully experience the resort-wide holiday cheer!
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