Walt Disney World has so many fun and restive ways to celebrate the holidays, from the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! And what better way to spend the holidays than with a trip around the world. And it’s totally possible to do this when visiting World Showcase at Epcot! See how the holidays are celebrated in cultures from around the globe.
Here is a quick peak at what you can find throughout World Showcase.
Candlelight Processional
Enjoy the stirring story of Christmas as told by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir. Each night you can hear a celebrity narrator tell the story of biblical story of the birth of Jesus. You can find a list of celebrity narrators here. The show is performed 3 times per day from November 27 to December 30.
Candlelight Processional Dining Packages
To enjoy guaranteed seating and a delicious meal at one of the fabulous Epcot restaurants, book the Candlelight Processional Dining Package. This meal is 2 Table Service credits on the Standard and Deluxe Disney Dining Plans but totally worth it for the guaranteed seating since lines start forming early – especially for the most popular narrators.
“Joyful! A Gospel Celebration of the Season”
Be inspired by a seasonal showcase that blends gospel and inspirational melodies with jazz, R&B and urban music! This musical act can be found a few times per day on the World Showcase side of the Future World fountain.
IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
Enjoy a special holiday presentation of this fireworks, laser and water spectacular. Check out the Time Guide for specific show times.
An International Yuletide Extravaganza
Enjoy storytelling from around the globe from costumed performers in each of the pavilions throughout World Showcase. And don’t forget to check out all of the amazing treats from around the world as well.
Canada with the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs
Take some time to listen to this wonderful band as they play songs inspired by Canadian holiday customs! You’re sure to learn something new.
UK Pavilion
Jolly Father Christmas will regale you with stories from the United Kingdom – like the fact that the Christmas Card was first started in the UK.
France Pavilion
Pere Noel shares with you the story of Babbette and her wishes at Christmastime. And you can even share you wishes with Pere Noel! Plus, enjoy the foods and revelry that make up le reveillon, the traditional Christmas Eve feast.
Japan
Happy New Year! In Japan you can meet the Daruma vendor and hear the story of the Daruma doll as you say goodbye to the old and hello to the new!
Morocco
Sahara has the festival of Sweet Dates that the King visits. In Morocco festivals are the way to pass on their heritage. Festival of Marriage in September, a dating festival and giant engagement party then wedding. She takes man and woman to represent the couple who died crying, now Koran and Rammadan.
America – which includes Christmas, Chanukah, and Kwanzaa Traditions
In American you can hear your favorite Christmas songs, discover the traditions of Hanukkah and learn of the wonderful celebration of Kwanzaa.
Germany
So many of our modern Christmas traditions come from Germany. Learn about the very first Christmas tree, the first Nutcracker, and the Christmas pickle (we hide one every year – do you?!).
Italy
Always a favorite for me, visit Italy to learn about La Befana, the Good Christmas Witch who visits the young children, leaving them treats to find.
China
Another nod to the New Year, the bold and festive Chinese Lion Dance, bringing good fortune and happiness to all as a celebration of major holidays including Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival.
Norway
Spend time with Sigrid and learn about Julenissen, the Christmas Gnome.
Mexico
Come and listen to Mariachi Cobre, a classic Mexican Mariachi band that plays outside the Mexico pavilion as you celebrate all that the holiday season holds.
These events take place throughout the day so be sure to pick up a Time Guide when you arrive at Epcot – you don’t want to miss any of these authentic and festive celebrations!
The holidays magical at Walt Disney World. And there is still time to plan that special holiday trip for this year or to start planning for 2016. I would love to help you with all of your travel needs. I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at alissa@worldofmagictravel.com to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa
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