In 2016, before it became the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, the seasonal celebration was known as Epcot Holidays Around the World. This annual festival brought holiday traditions from across the globe to life. Offering guests a unique experience filled with cultural storytelling, festive treats, and beautiful decorations.
Much like the Flower & Garden Festival or the Food & Wine Festival, Epcot Holidays Around the World featured a Holiday Passport to help guests discover cultural traditions, festive performances, and seasonal snacks available at kiosks.
Of course, the Candlelight Processional was the event’s centerpiece, but for many, the holiday storytellers were the real magic. From La Befana in Italy to Father Christmas in the United Kingdom, these performances offered an inside look at holiday customs from around the world.
A Norwegian Christmas Tale
One standout was the Norwegian Tale of Sigrid and Julenissen. Performed in the Norway Pavilion, this delightful show featured Sigrid, who was determined to tell the story of a traditional Norwegian Christmas. However, Julenissen, a mischievous Christmas gnome, hilariously interrupted her storytelling. His playful antics entertained kids and adults, adding humor and heart to the performance.
Watch the full video of Sigrid and Julenissen in the blog above to relive the magic!
Looking for More Epcot’s holiday magic? Check out these other performances from 2016: the Chinese Lion Dancers at the China Pavilion, Helga’s Christmas Tale at the Germany Pavilion, Père Noël at the France Pavilion, the Daruma Vendor at the Japan Pavilion, and Father Christmas at the United Kingdom Pavilion. These storytellers brought festive traditions to life and were a highlight for visitors exploring the cultural side of the holidays.
A Norwegian Holilday Photo Drop
Looking for more Epcot Holidays? Check out the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs, Fountain of Nations, or a flashback to Epcot 1987
