Experience the Holidays at Disney with Samantha Brown: A Look Back at 2007

In 2007, Samantha Brown took viewers on a magical journey through the holiday celebrations at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The Travel Channel special highlighted traditions, dazzling displays, and behind‑the‑scenes moments with Imagineer Joe Rohde. For Disney fans, it remains a treasured look at how the parks once celebrated the holiday season.

Highlights from Walt Disney World

Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights  This holiday favorite at Disney’s Hollywood Studios featured millions of twinkling lights dancing to music. Samantha showcased the dazzling display, now a cherished piece of Disney history.

Epcot’s Candlelight Processional  At Epcot, Samantha shared the moving Candlelight Processional. The show told the Christmas story with a mass choir and a full orchestra, creating a powerful seasonal tradition.

Lights of Winter & Holidays Around the World  Guests walking through World Showcase enjoyed the sparkling Lights of Winter archway and Holidays Around the World. Cultural storytellers brought festive traditions from each country to life.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom with Joe Rohde  Samantha explored Animal Kingdom alongside Imagineer Joe Rohde. He explained how the park’s design celebrates nature and culture, even during the holidays.

Resort Holiday Magic  The special also toured Disney’s resorts, including Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Wilderness Lodge. Each was decorated with festive trees, lights, and gingerbread creations.

A Visit to Disneyland

To complete the holiday journey, Samantha Brown headed to California’s Disneyland, where she highlighted the seasonal transformation of “It’s a Small World Holiday.” The attraction dazzled guests with festive lights, holiday music, and whimsical touches celebrating cultures from around the world.

Why This Special Still Matters

For Disney fans, this 2007 Travel Channel special offers a nostalgic look at holiday traditions, some of which have since disappeared — including the Osborne Lights and the Lights of Winter. It also preserves the magic of a time when Disney’s holiday celebrations were expanding and evolving, blending timeless traditions with new experiences.