Santa may have elves, but Walt Disney World cast members are already working their merry magic to prepare for the Disney holiday events 2023 season, officially beginning November 11! From shimmering trees and gingerbread masterpieces to dazzling entertainment and new attractions, there’s so much to explore.
Disney Jollywood Nights: A Swanky New Holiday Bash
Disney Jollywood Nights is the new separately ticketed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios happening select nights Nov. 11–Dec. 20. Here’s what to expect:
- Live Stage Shows: Don’t miss “Disney Holidays in Hollywood,” featuring Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Tiana, Belle, and more—including a new original song by Tiana.
- “What’s This?” Sing-Along: Jack Skellington hosts a hauntingly festive show celebrating The Nightmare Before Christmas.
- New Character Looks: Mickey and friends wear new pastel-toned costumes inspired by 1930s–50s Hollywood.
- Photo Fun: Enjoy Disney PhotoPass downloads, neon signs, robotic Magic Shots, and a Camera Array for boomerang-style moments.
- Low Wait Times & Attractions: A virtual queue will be available for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
- Dance Parties & DJ Sets: Groove to retro classics and Disney Channel nostalgia with characters like Powerline Max and Phineas and Ferb.
- Sunset Seasons Greetings: The Tower of Terror transforms with projections and snowfall every night.
Frozen Holiday Surprise at Magic Kingdom
Debuting Nov. 7, this new castle stage show features Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Olaf, and over 100 Snowgies decorating Cinderella Castle with festive flair. This nighttime spectacle brings the castle to life with a sparkling, crystallized look.
And don’t miss Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, returning for its 40th season on 25 select nights from Nov. 9–Dec. 22. Expect:
- A festive parade and fireworks
- Complimentary treats
- Holiday character greetings
Holiday Magic at EPCOT
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays begins Nov. 24, featuring:
- Holiday Kitchens with global seasonal bites
- Candlelight Processional with celebrity narrators
- Holiday Cookie Stroll
- Luminous: The Symphony of Us fireworks debuting Dec. 5
- Special Disney100 holiday decor at the park entrance
Gingerbread Displays at Resort Hotels
Six Disney Resort Hotels will display massive gingerbread creations:
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Yacht Club Resort (new for 2023)
- Beach Club Resort
- BoardWalk Resort
- Contemporary Resort
- Animal Kingdom Lodge
The Grand Floridian’s display takes nearly seven months to prepare—beginning with dough mixed in May!
Even More Holiday Fun
Disney Springs:
- Christmas Tree Stroll with 19 themed trees
- Santa at Once Upon a Toy
- Snowfall in Town Center
Animal Kingdom:
- Merry Menagerie puppet encounters
- Tree of Life Awakenings nighttime projections
- Meet-and-greets with Disney characters and Santa
Behind the Scenes: Holiday Services Team
Disney’s Holiday Services team creates and installs over 600 trees, 1,700 wreaths, and nine miles of garland across the resort each year. Planning starts as soon as the previous season ends!
For more info and to book your festive visit, visit DisneyWorld.com.
Disney holiday events 2023
