In 1987, Disney Channel aired “Holiday Splendor at EPCOT Center,” a festive special hosted by Carol Lawrence. The program highlighted cultural holiday traditions worldwide, as represented in EPCOT’s World Showcase. Viewers experienced a rare glimpse of the holiday magic Disney brought to life, with performances, decorations, and storytelling that showcased the season’s spiritual meaning.
Celebrating Cultures at EPCOT
Holiday Splendor at EPCOT brought a multicultural focus to Disney’s holiday celebrations. The show included performances reflecting global customs, from Christmas carols to Hanukkah stories. EPCOT’s World Showcase was the perfect backdrop, showing how different cultures celebrate the holidays. Carol Lawrence guided viewers through these diverse traditions, providing insight into how EPCOT embraces the season’s spirit.
Behind-the-Scenes Magic
The special also offered a behind-the-scenes look at the hard work of preparing EPCOT for the holidays. Disney’s talented team transformed the park overnight with thousands of lights, wreaths, and festive displays. Each area of the park reflected the unique holiday customs of its represented country, from the Germany Pavilion‘s Christmas markets to Mexico‘s vibrant holiday fiestas.
Timeless Disney Holiday Memories
Holiday Splendor at EPCOT entertained and educated viewers about the meaning behind each celebration. Including various religious and cultural observances highlighted Disney’s commitment to authentic storytelling. The show was rebroadcast throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, becoming a nostalgic favorite among Disney fans.
