Behind the Scenes Look at How the Holidays Bloom at Disney World

Poinsettias Take Center Stage at Walt Disney World

The holiday season at Walt Disney World wouldn’t be complete without a touch of floral magic. Each year, over 100,000 poinsettias and other festive plants transform the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs into a vibrant winter wonderland. But have you ever wondered how these iconic red blooms make their way into every picture-perfect corner of Disney?

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A Year in the Making

Creating this floral spectacle is no small feat. Behind the scenes, Disney’s skilled horticulturists spend nearly a year planning, selecting, and preparing for the holidays. At the heart of this operation is a 3.5-acre tree farm behind Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where the team has nurtured plants for over five decades—even before Walt Disney World opened.

With over 100 varieties of poinsettias to choose from, the design process starts early. These plants come in a range of colors, from traditional reds to crisp whites and unique shades of pink, adding pops of color throughout the parks. Some of the most striking displays include the towering 8-foot poinsettia “trees” in EPCOT’s World Celebration Gardens, which stand as seasonal showstoppers.

The Magic Makers

For Allison Brooks, a horticulture area manager who began her Disney journey as an intern 26 years ago, bringing holiday landscapes to life is a labor of love.

“I love to use my horticulture skills to bring our parks and resorts to life, especially during the holidays,” said Allison. “After all the flowers are nurtured and planted, it becomes a special moment to showcase the team’s talents and share this experience with our guests.”

Allison and her team—made up of gardeners, arborists, and more—work tirelessly in the early hours of the morning to plant poinsettias and other festive foliage. Their efforts ensure the parks are picture-perfect when guests arrive, enhancing experiences like the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

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Caring for Your Holiday Blooms

Inspired to add a touch of Disney magic to your home? Allison’s top tips for caring for poinsettias include:

Sunlight is key: Place your poinsettia in a sunny spot for optimal growth.
Water wisely: Water when the soil’s surface feels dry but avoid overwatering.
A second bloom surprise: With proper care, your poinsettia might bloom again next year!

A Vibrant Holiday Experience

The next time you visit Disney World during the holidays, take a moment to appreciate the incredible work that goes into creating these magical displays. From the lush gardens of EPCOT to the vibrant corners of Disney Springs, these floral masterpieces bring holiday cheer and unforgettable memories to guests of all ages.

Thanks to the dedication of Disney’s horticulture team, the spirit of the season truly comes alive—one poinsettia at a time.

*all photos by Disney Parks Blog

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