The 2024 Candlelight Processional at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays closed its season with a truly magical performance, narrated by the iconic Jodi Benson. Known and loved as the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Benson brought her warmth and charisma to the stage, making the final show of the season an unforgettable experience for Disney fans and holiday enthusiasts alike.
The Candlelight Processional is one of Disney’s most cherished holiday traditions, tracing its origins back to 1958 at Disneyland. Walt Disney himself envisioned a celebration of the season that combined the biblical Christmas story with stunning musical performances. This tradition expanded to EPCOT in 1982, where it became a cornerstone of the park’s annual Festival of the Holidays.
At EPCOT, the event has evolved into a grand spectacle featuring, A celebrity narrator recounting the Nativity story, A massed choir, including Disney cast members and local performers, and A live orchestra, delivering stirring renditions of holiday classics.
Jodi Benson’s performance as narrator was nothing short of magical. Her heartfelt delivery of the Nativity story resonated deeply with the audience, enhancing the evening’s powerful musical arrangements. As someone whose voice has touched generations, her presence added a special layer of nostalgia and reverence to the event.
As we bid farewell to the 2024 Festival of the Holidays, we celebrate the legacy of the Candlelight Processional and eagerly anticipate its return next year. This annual tradition reminds us of the power of music, storytelling, and togetherness—values that lie at the heart of the Disney experience.
