EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays is back, and it’s bigger and brighter than ever! From November 29th to December 30th, you’ll find a variety of new experiences to make your holiday season extra magical.
Prepare to be amazed by a towering, 8-foot gingerbread Spaceship Earth! This incredible creation, made up of hundreds of handcrafted gingerbread triangles, will be the centerpiece of CommuniCore Hall. Watch in wonder as it lights up and dances to festive tunes!
CommuniCore Hall is transformed into a winter wonderland, with a dazzling Glittering Grove and a variety of holiday merchandise. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts for loved ones.
A Feast for the Senses
Indulge your taste buds at two new Holiday Kitchens in CommuniCore Hall:
Experimental Prototype Cookies of Tomorrow: Sample innovative cookie creations and even decorate your own gingerbread triangles.
Favorites of Festivals Past: Relive the magic of past festivals with beloved dishes.
Snowflake Fun for the Whole Family
Get creative and make your own snowflake at a complimentary activity in CommuniCore Plaza. While you’re there, catch spirited performances by JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season.
A Sensory Delight
Stroll through a winter wonderland of scents at Festive Fragrances presented by Scentsy. This immersive experience will transport you to a magical holiday world.
Don’t miss out on these exciting new additions to the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays! Make this holiday season one to remember.
Freeform’s ’25 Days of Christmas’ Returns with Holiday Classics and Festive Cheer
Freeform is spreading holiday cheer with the return of its beloved “25 Days of Christmas” programming event. Starting December 1st, viewers can cozy up and enjoy a festive lineup of classic holiday films and heartwarming specials.
The programming schedule features a diverse selection of holiday favorites, including “Home Alone,” “The Santa Clause” trilogy, and “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000). Select airings of “Home Alone” will even include fun “pop-up” facts about the movie.
THE SANTA CLAUSE – Tim Allen provides answers — warm and funny answers — to some of the world’s most vexing questions: How can Santa come down your chimney if you don’t have a fireplace? How does he get to every house in the world in just one night? And how do you get a job like that, anyway? (DISNEY/ATTILA DORY)
TIM ALLEN, ERIC LLOYD
Disney fans can also jingle all the way with classic films like “Frozen,” the “Toy Story” franchise, and “Disney’s A Christmas Carol.” Other holiday favorites include “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas,” “Miracle on 34th Street” (1994), and “Arthur Christmas.” No holiday season would be complete without Rankin-Bass’ beloved specials, and Freeform will be airing “Frosty the Snowman,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town.”
MARIAH CAREYÕS ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU – When little Mariah sees a darling little puppy named “Princess” at the pet store, she suddenly knows exactly what she wants for Christmas. (Universal)
Adding to the excitement, the lineup includes the network premiere of “Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You,” along with other festive films like “Dashing Through the Snow” and “Santa’s Little Helper.”
Last year’s “25 Days of Christmas” was a resounding success, reaching nearly 37 million viewers and solidifying Freeform’s position as the No. 1 cable entertainment network during the event for the 11th time in the past 12 years among Adults 18-49 and Adults 18-34.
With its diverse and heartwarming lineup, Freeform’s “25 Days of Christmas” promises to be a delightful celebration of the holiday season for viewers of all ages.
Below is a day-by-day list of the movies airing during the “25 Days of Christmas” event:
Sunday, Dec. 1
7:00 a.m. – “Prep & Landing” (Disney Animated)
7:30 a.m. – “Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmas”
9:00 a.m. – “Mickey’s Twice Upon A Christmas”
10:30 a.m. – “Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Freeform Premiere
12:30 p.m. – “Arthur Christmas”
2:35 p.m. – “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”
4:15 p.m. – “Moana” (Disney Animated)
6:45 p.m. – “Home Alone”
9:15 p.m. – “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”
11:55 p.m. – “Home Alone 3”
Monday, Dec. 2
7:00 a.m. – “Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You”
10:30 a.m. – “Arthur Christmas”
12:35 p.m. – “Miracle on 34th Street” (1994)
3:10 p.m. – “Home Alone”
5:40 p.m. – “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York”
8:20 p.m. – “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)
12:00 a.m. – “Black Nativity”
Tuesday, Dec. 3
7:00 a.m. – “Black Nativity”
10:30 a.m. – “The Preacher’s Wife”
1:10 p.m. – “Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish”
3:10 p.m. – “Disney’s A Christmas Carol”
5:15 p.m. – “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration Features New and Returning Festive Favorites
Get ready for a season of sparkle, laughter, and unforgettable memories at SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration! This year’s event promises to be even brighter than ever before, with a dazzling array of new festive experiences alongside returning favorites.
Step into a breathtaking winter wonderland illuminated by over three million twinkling lights. Glide across Central Florida’s only outdoor ice rink, be mesmerized by the mesmerizing Sea of Trees, and marvel at the magnificent 70-foot centerpiece tree.
Prepare to be wowed by all-new festive experiences! Explore the enchanting Christmas decor at Journey to Atlantis Plaza, featuring a magical Snow Globe Ballerina. In the Antarctica Realm, encounter playful Donder Elves and embark on a thrilling journey through a snowy landscape on the exciting All-New Penguin Trek ride.
Returning Holiday Favorites
Don’t miss the heartwarming retelling of the Nativity in the fan-favorite O Wondrous Night show, featuring beautiful life-size puppets and live animals. Sesame Street Land bursts with holiday cheer with the beloved Sesame Street Christmas Parade, the heartwarming Elmo’s Christmas Wish Show, and storytime with Big Bird. Mingle with Santa Claus at Wild Arctic and snap photos with Rudolph and Bumble in Rudolph’s Christmas Town.
Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Decadent Delights
Indulge in the delicious flavors of the season with an all-new selection of festive food and drinks. From gingerbread and eggnog with a modern twist to mouthwatering options like Kris Kringle’s Biscuit Pot Pie and Santa’s Apple Cider Cronut Chicken Sandwich, your taste buds are in for a treat! Don’t forget to sip on delightful seasonal beverages like frozen hot chocolate or a festive margarita.
Enhance Your Experience
For an extra dose of holiday magic, consider unique dining experiences like Dinner with Santa or Cookies, Cocoa & Milk. Upgrade your exploration with the Festive Food & Seasonal Sips sampling lanyard to indulge in all the delicious holiday offerings throughout the park.
Celebrate Beyond Christmas
SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration extends the holiday cheer! Enjoy the Festival of Lights during Hanukkah, celebrate African heritage with Kwanzaa festivities, ring in the New Year with dazzling fireworks, and witness the arrival of the Three Wise Men during the Three Kings Celebration.
Make Memories that Last
Don’t miss out on this spectacular event! For a limited time, save up to 55% on tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes. Annual Pass holders receive incredible benefits, including a special 12-item Christmas Celebration tasting lanyard, so they can savor all the holiday flavors.
Visit www.seaworldorlando.com for more information, park hours, and to book your unforgettable holiday adventure at SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration!
Christmas Decorations Arrive in the Magic Kingdom overnight
With Halloween over, Magic Kingdom is preparing to celebrate Christmas. Decorations arrived at the park overnight and now adorn much of the entrance and Main Street, U.S.A.
Red and white plants now fill the planters in front of Magic Kingdom. In the planter between entrance gates, jack-o’-lanterns have been replaced by Mickey and Minnie topiaries wearing Santa hats. There are gift boxes in the planter around them.
The fall bunting remains on the Main Street train station, but garland is now draped over the railings. The Mickey flowerbed directly in front of the station is now red and green. Garlands and wreaths adorn the entrance tunnels. They feature poinsettias, pinecones, fruits, and colorful baubles. There are more wreaths and garlands with big red bows on the back of the train station.
We especially love how Disney even decorates the popcorn cart too!
Some of the lampposts in Town Square and down Main Street USA are wrapped with garlands and wreathes as well!
And, of course, no Magic Kingdom holiday celebration would be complete without the transformation of Cinderella Castle. The iconic landmark will soon be adorned with shimmering icicles, sparkling lights, and a majestic wreath, creating a breathtaking centerpiece for the park’s festive atmosphere. This magical makeover is sure to evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment for guests of all ages, making Cinderella Castle a must-see during the holiday season.
Here are more photos of the Christmas Decorations from the Magic Kingdom
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
With Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party kicking off on November 8th, the Magic Kingdom is in full swing preparing for its holiday transformation. Guests can expect the park to be decked out in its festive finest before the first party, with twinkling lights, garlands, wreaths, and of course, the iconic Christmas tree gracing Main Street, U.S.A.
The arrival of these decorations signals the start of the most magical time of year at the Magic Kingdom, promising a season filled with holiday cheer and unforgettable experiences.
Disneyland Bringing Back Pixar’s Better Together Parade
According to Disney’s audition website, Disneyland will be bringing back the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration parade. This parade last ran in the summer during Pixar Fest at Disney California Adventure.
Disney is casting roles for a few characters and performers. Auditions will be held on November 11 and 13.
Seeking the following role from Disney Pixar’s Soul:
Joe Gardner (5’11”-6’2”) is a is a New York City middle school band teacher who has always loved teaching yet has harbored an underlying passion for playing jazz piano professionally. When Joe finally gets a chance to play at the best jazz club in town, he makes one small misstep which takes him from the streets of NYC to “The Great Before.” The soul-searching experience gives Joe a second chance at life, and he returns ready and eager to share his knowledge and talents with his students and the world.
Seeking the following roles from Disney Pixar’s Turning Red:
Miriam (5’5”-5’7”) is loyal, easygoing and a total goof who can make her besties laugh when they need it most. Miriam regularly rocks a flannel and she shares her friends’ obsession with the epic boy band 4*Town. Miriam would do anything for the people she cares about, especially when their best friend Meilin transforms into a giant red panda.
Priya (5’3”-5’5”) is meticulous yet artsy, passionate yet stoic. She cares deeply for the well-being of her friends. Priya’s effortlessly chill and deadpan sense of humor make her a wildcard. She takes a calm and collected approach to school, friendship and just about anything – except 4*Town. Even Priya can’t contain her love of 4*Town.
Abby (4’11”-5’1”)is a stick of dynamite. The opposite of shy, Abby is not afraid to be heard. Fierce and passionate, she’s a tiny ball of energy who never hesitates to stand up and support her friends. Yet this tough cookie can’t help but show her soft side for Red Panda Mei. (All that extreme fluff is just too hard not to hug!)
Jin Lee (5’7”-5’10”) is the quiet, steady presence in the Lee family. Jin works hard and aspires to a life of simple pleasures. Devoted to family, Jin is a necessary balance to his strong-willed wife Ming and is a doting father to their daughter Meilin. Even though an ancient phenomenon has thrown his family into chaos, Jin remains trusting, supportive and loving.
4*Town (boy band) – To Meilin Lee and her friends, no musical group in the world is more talented – or dreamier – than the chart-topping, five-member boy band 4*Town. They may be the biggest musical act of the late 90s/early 2000s, but these five besties keep it real by staying humble and always being true to their fans.
Robaire (5’6”-5’9”) is the Leader of 4*Town for a reason. He will eventually have a successful solo career, but until then, he’s content to jam on the tour bus with his four best friends.
Tae Young (5’5”-5’7”) is the youngest member of 4*Town and known as the “Cute One.” A lover of animals, Tae Young is dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation and has personally fostered injured doves between tours.
Jesse (5’9”-5’11”) is the oldest member of 4*Town. Jesse was in art school studying a degree in ceramics before the band took off. When fame starts getting to his head, throwing clay on his potter’s wheel and spending time with his two kids brings him back down to earth. Jesse is the “Artistic One.”
Aaron Z (5’9”-5’11”) is the athlete of 4*Town and the strongest dancer. Aaron Z coordinates a lot of the band’s moves and chills out by shooting hoops. Stoic and a little shy, he’s known as the “Lone Wolf” of the group.
Aaron T (5’6”-5’9”) is fast-talking and a natural comedian. “T” is always there to break the tension when life on the road gets tense. He’s a fun-loving prankster who remains happy and laidback, even after facing interviews.
Seeking individuals of all heights who excel on Inline Skates.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Pixar Play Parade, the Better Together parade brought a decade of magic to Disneyland. With its energetic roller skaters, skilled bicyclists, and talented dancers, the parade captivated audiences with seven stunning units. From the heartwarming world of “Turning Red” to the cosmic wonder of “Soul,” each unit brought a unique piece of Pixar to life.
Disney hasn’t officially announced a return date for the Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration parade so stay tuned for more information.
Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo Nighttime Gathering Coming to Disneyland
Guests visiting Disneyland can now reserve a spot at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo for dinner and prime viewing of Fire of the Rising Moons. This dinner and fireworks package is called the Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo Nighttime Gathering.
Journey to a galaxy far, far away to indulge in a unique dining experience. At Docking Bay 7, feast on out-of-this-world cuisine and witness the awe-inspiring Fire of the Rising Moons.
The package includes an array of menu options, including:
Fried Cheeseburger Croquette Bites
Apricot goat cheese topped with honey, za’atar, sour cherry gel, cheddar, Monterey jack and pita chips
Dragon fruit yogurt topped with lychee popping pearls and fresh blueberries
Cream puff pair of Black Caf cold brew and blue milk flavors
Unlimited fountain beverages
Specialty nonalcoholic beverages in a souvenir novelty cup
Additionally, a selection of wine, beer and hard seltzer are available for purchase for Guests ages 21 and over. A valid form of government identification is required.
After eating, enjoy exclusive access to a standing view area of Falcon Overlook and watch in awe as the skies above Batuu burst into color during Fire of the Rising Moons. Villagers and visitors alike can come together to celebrate their freedom and to honor the heroes and legends who came before them. This frenzy of fireworks is accompanied by iconic music associated with tales from across the galaxy to ignite our imaginations.
The price for this dining experience is $89 per guest and reservations are available now!
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Unwraps the Magic of Christmas Town!
Get ready for a season filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and unforgettable memories! Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town returns bigger and brighter than ever, running daily from November 15th through January 5th.
Caribe Royale Orlando has officially teamed up with the Orlando Magic, becoming an official hotel partner and creating a vibrant hub for fans at its newly reimagined Stadium Club. Named “The Ultimate Orlando Magic Watch Party Location,” Stadium Club promises an unparalleled sports experience with a massive 110-foot wrap-around display, cutting-edge sports simulators, and curated menus by “Top Chef” alumni Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis.
Throughout the season, fans can catch Orlando Magic watch parties at Stadium Club, complete with food and drink specials, giveaways, and appearances by former players and the Orlando Magic Hype Team.
With this partnership, Caribe Royale Orlando is set to elevate game days, offering fans a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience that combines great food, top-notch entertainment, and, of course, all the thrills of Magic basketball. Stay tuned for additional events and activations in the coming weeks!
In an exciting move that will thrill horror fans, Universal Destinations & Experiences (UDX) has announced additional details about its first-ever year-round horror attraction, Universal Horror Unleashed, set to open in Las Vegas in 2025. Known globally for creating Halloween Horror Nights, Universal is taking its expertise in fright to new heights with this permanent installation, offering fans a chance to experience terror on a whole new level.
Housed in a darkened warehouse on the outskirts of Las Vegas, Universal Horror Unleashed will feature four immersive haunted houses that bring some of the most chilling stories to life. Guests will encounter classic Universal Monsters like Frankenstein and The Wolf Man, face the terror of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, navigate the twisted nightmare of Scarecrow: The Reaping, and endure the demonic possession of Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer. Each house promises an intense, fully immersive experience that surrounds guests with terrifying realism and unimaginable scares.
But the horror doesn’t end at the haunted houses. Four surrounding themed areas will offer live horror entertainment, exclusive seasonal events, and eerie food and drink options at horror-centric eateries and bars. Universal has promised an evolving experience, meaning new events, live shows, and one-of-a-kind merchandise will keep guests returning for fresh frights throughout the year.
As the anchor tenant in the AREA15 entertainment district, this 20-acre expansion in Las Vegas aims to draw new audiences into the world of horror. Page Thompson, President of New Ventures for UDX, expressed excitement about the venture, noting Universal’s rich history of horror filmmaking and the company’s commitment to delivering unmatched thrills through its Creative and Entertainment teams.
With a grand opening on the horizon, Universal Horror Unleashed promises to be a must-visit attraction for horror aficionados, adding an electrifying new layer to Las Vegas’s entertainment scene. Keep an eye out for updates as Universal continues to raise the bar on fear.
Winnie the Pooh Plush Backpack: A Honey of a Backpack
Embark on your next adventure with a cuddly companion! Disney has introduced an irresistibly cute Winnie the Pooh plush backpack that’s perfect for fans of all ages. This soft-sculpted sweetie is not only a full-sized stuffed animal but also a functional backpack.
Priced at $69.99, this delightful backpack is currently available at Magic Kingdom and online at the Disney Store.
Featuring zip pockets in his tummy and back, this backpack offers ample storage for your essentials. Pooh’s signature velvety shirt, “hunny” pot, and embroidered features add to his charming appeal.
With adjustable straps, carrying this adorable backpack is a breeze. So, whether you’re heading to school, a day out, or simply need a comforting companion, Winnie the Pooh is ready to join you on your journey.
Enchant Your Home with the Belle Reversible Pillow
Bring a touch of Disney magic into your home with the enchanting Belle Reversible Pillow. This exquisite pillow, priced at $39.99, is available at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
One side of the pillow showcases an elegant portrait of Belle against a regal blue background, adorned with delicate roses and gold embroidered details. This side is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and romance to your living space.
Flip the pillow over to reveal a stunning textured pattern of roses, adding a whimsical and playful element to your decor. This side is ideal for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your bedroom or living room.
With its versatile design, the Belle Reversible Pillow is a must-have for any Disney fan or home decor enthusiast.
If Disney’s BoardWalk is on your itinerary, then here’s some delicious news! You can now make reservations for The Cake Bake Shop, an enchanting eatery nestled along the BoardWalk. While many Disney dining spots are booked through the My Disney Experience app, The Cake Bake Shop is currently taking reservations through OpenTable, which means you can secure your spot with ease and without needing a credit card hold.
Known for its elegant atmosphere and a menu that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Cake Bake Shop is quickly becoming a must-visit. Expect a delightful mix of sweet treats and savory dishes, making it the perfect destination for anything from a quick coffee and pastry to a full meal. And with the festive season around the corner, this charming spot is likely to be in high demand, so booking ahead is a smart choice.
If you’re ready to indulge in The Cake Bake Shop’s magic, head to OpenTable to reserve your table and savor a truly memorable dining experience at Disney’s BoardWalk!
