By Barbara Cash, Small World Big Fun Disney Authorized Travel Agent
So you are going to Disney World during the holiday season but, for whatever reason, you didn’t purchase tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in the Magic Kingdom. No worries! There is so much to see and do at Disney World to get into the holiday spirit.
Below are some “insider” tips and advice for things to do that are not always included in the standard maps and guides. If you have any questions you can contact me anytime!
- Check out the resorts. Every Disney resort will be decked out in their themed holiday splendor. The Grand Floridian has a huge gingerbread house and a five-story Christmas tree. Many nights, the deluxe resorts also have characters in the lobby taking pictures with guests and signing autographs. Last year, after finishing dinner at ‘Ohana at The Polynesian, my family was greeted by Mickey and Minnie in the lobby decked out in their Hawaiian holiday attire. Most of these activities aren’t listed in map guides or schedule sheets. These are just special moments guests happen upon while visiting Disney World.
- Visit Disney Springs. Grab a hot chocolate from Ghirardelli’s and take a stroll through the Disney-themed Christmas trees along the Trail of Trees. If you need to wrap up your holiday shopping, the options are almost limitless! There is no cost to visit Disney Springs. Take a stroll, have a snack, and take in all the decorations.
- Explore the holiday decorations in the parks. At Epcot, Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree is a fun scavenger hunt around World Showcase. Be sure to visit the Santas Around the World and learn a little about his history and traditions in other countries. In Hollywood Studios, there are special fireworks and throwback decorations from earlier eras.
- Last but not least… the food! The special treats at Disney World are always great but they are completely over the top during the holiday season. Everything from Christmas-themed caramel apples to the Holiday Waffle featured at the Holiday Marketplace in Epcot – It’s a sweet potato waffle base stuffed with roast turkey and topped with green bean casserole!
The holiday season is a special time at Disney World. You can visit resorts, take in the decorations at the theme parks, happen upon special groups sharing their cheer, and have some fantastic treats that are beyond the usual at Disney World. Don’t let the lack of a party ticket keep you from getting into holiday cheer.
Barbara Cash is an Agent with WDWNT’s Exclusive Disney Travel Partner – Small World Big Fun. You can learn more about Barbara here.
Such a great article!