While a trip to Walt Disney World can be magical no matter when you choose to go, a trip to the parks during the holidays can feel extra special. Epcot, the Magic Kingdom, and the other Disney parks tend to embrace the holidays like few other places on the planet. That being said, the parks certainly celebrate some holidays more than others. If you’re eager to make holiday memories at Disney World, consider planning your trip for one of the following dates:
CHRISTMAS.
It’s no surprise to learn that Disney World does Christmas like nowhere else. The parks hold nothing back as they decorate for the season, and everything from restaurant menus to street performers make tweaks and adjustments to embrace the holiday spirit. You’ll find Christmas parades and performances, as well as special fireworks displays tailored to celebrate the occasion. For the ultimate Disney Christmas experience, grab tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, an event that takes place on select evenings in November and December.
If you want to spend Christmas day at Disney World, plan to get to the parks early – they often reach capacity.
HALLOWEEN.
For a Halloween, that’s more silly than spooky, head to Disney World at the end of October for a treat. Similar to the Christmas season, the parks go all-out for Halloween by incorporating haunted elements into the decor and rolling out new shows, like the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. You can enjoy Halloween-themed parades and fireworks displays, and you can even attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, an exclusive after-hours event at the Magic Kingdom. There, kids can show up in costumes to trick-or-treat, ride their favorite rides, and interact with costumed versions of their favorite Disney characters.
THE FOURTH OF JULY.
Independence Day can be an excellent opportunity to plan a trip to Disney World. You’ll find Mickey, Donald, and friends dressed up in patriotic attire, special concerts singing American patriotic songs, and, of course, plenty of fireworks! With multiple fireworks displays and light shows happening at the various parks in the evening, you’ll need to decide which show you want to catch with your family. Whichever one you choose to view, get there early and grab a seat well before it’s scheduled to begin!
The Fourth of July can also be a great time to experience one of Disney’s water parks, like Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon. While you’ll face long lines like you will in the parks, you’ll appreciate the ability to cool down with a quick splash in a pool.
YOUR BIRTHDAY.
While your birthday may not be an official holiday, it’s a great time to plan a visit to one (or more) of the Disney World parks. When the Disney staff know it’s your special day, they’ll go out of their way to help you celebrate, so let them know by checking in with Guest Relations. Tell them it’s your birthday, and you’ll receive a button to wear to share the news with everyone you meet.
Aside from plenty of birthday wishes, birthday boys and girls have been known to receive special treats like free desserts and other fun perks, like the opportunity to skip the line and ride their favorite ride a second time. Ask nicely, and you may be surprised just how far Disney’s hospitality can go!
A trip to Disney World can make any day feel like a holiday, but it can really feel special when you visit on Christmas, Halloween, or another date the parks choose to celebrate. Check the calendar before you plan your next trip and plan your travel accordingly!
