For over 40 years, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade has been a cherished holiday tradition for families around the world. Since its first broadcast in 1983, the parade has brought the enchantment of Disney into homes on Christmas morning with Disney characters, festive music, and dazzling performances. More than just a show, it’s a way to create unforgettable holiday memories.
At Sam’s Disney Diary, we’ve embraced this legacy by capturing the magic year after year. You can relive all of the past parades and highlights in our archive at samsdisneydiary.com/christmasparade.
Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or revisiting a holiday tradition, the 2024 Walt Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade delivered everything fans have come to expect and more. Filmed across Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawai‘i, the special offered a mix of music, magic, and meaningful moments.
Returning hosts Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro brought energy and warmth to the broadcast, kicking things off with a lively duet and introducing each performance with signature Disney sparkle.
Star-Studded Performances Shine Bright
This year’s musical lineup was nothing short of spectacular. Here’s who performed and what they sang:
- Julianne Hough & Alfonso Ribeiro – “Winter Wonderland”
- Elton John – “Tiny Dancer”
- John Legend – “This Christmas”
- Andy Grammer & Junkanoo Performers – “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”
- Carly Pearce – “(Everybody’s Waitin’ For) The Man With The Bag”
- Pentatonix – “12 Days of Christmas”
- Anika Noni Rose – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”
- SEVENTEEN – “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”
- Descendants:The Rise of Red Cast – “Red Christmas” / “Jolly to the Core”
Each segment was pre-recorded in November 2024, with enthusiastic crowds and magical backdrops enhancing the final presentation.
Parade and Park Magic
The broadcast included a TV-optimized version of Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, filmed at Magic Kingdom. Iconic floats, festive costumes, and favorite characters delighted viewers, culminating in an appearance from Santa Claus himself.
The program also included:
- Previews of upcoming attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Disneyland Resort’s 70th Anniversary
- A surprise dream-come-true trip for a deserving family
- Holiday visuals from across Disney destinations, from snow-lined Main Street, U.S.A., to tropical Aulani
Keep following Sam’s Disney Diary for all the history, highlights, and hidden gems from Disney’s long-running Christmas Day tradition at samsdisneydiary.com/christmasparade.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and historical purposes only. Sam’s Disney Diary is an independent fan publication and is not affiliated with The Walt Disney Company. All trademarks, character names, and footage mentioned or referenced belong to their respective owners. These Disney Christmas Day Parades are a nostalgic memory worth preserving. Our mission is to document and share that magic for future generations.
