EPCOT is undergoing a festive transformation as new holiday decorations appear across the park. This marks the beginning of preparations for the annual Festival of the Holidays, an event set to highlight global seasonal traditions. The festival officially opens on Friday, November 28, and runs through December 30.
Visitors can expect a park filled with celebratory displays, special entertainment, and unique culinary offerings. The holiday season brings a distinct atmosphere to EPCOT, drawing guests eager to experience diverse cultural festivities.
Key Takeaways
- EPCOT's Festival of the Holidays begins November 28 and concludes December 30.
- The event features the Candlelight Processional and Holiday Storytellers.
- New decor is already visible at the park entrance.
- Holiday Kitchens will offer unique food and beverage options.
- A new Mickey Mouse meet and greet is coming to the Imagination! pavilion.
Festival Highlights and Entertainment
The EPCOT Festival of the Holidays promises a wide array of activities and performances. One of the most anticipated events is the Candlelight Processional, a beloved tradition featuring celebrity narrators, a mass choir, and a 50-piece orchestra. This performance tells the story of Christmas.
Throughout the World Showcase, guests will encounter Holiday Storytellers. These performers share tales and customs from various countries, providing educational and entertaining insights into global holiday traditions. JOYFUL! performances will also add to the musical ambiance.
Quick Fact
The Festival of the Holidays runs for over a month, from November 28 to December 30, offering ample time for guests to experience all its offerings.
Culinary Delights and Sweet Treats
Food is a central part of any EPCOT festival, and the Festival of the Holidays is no exception. Numerous Holiday Kitchens will open, serving specialty food and beverage items inspired by seasonal traditions from around the world. These kitchens offer a unique opportunity to taste international holiday flavors.
The popular Cookie Stroll also returns, inviting guests to purchase cookies at various locations and collect stamps in a Festival Passport. Completing the stroll earns a complimentary treat. This activity encourages exploration across the park.
New Additions and Park Updates
Beyond the festival, EPCOT is introducing other new experiences. A new Mickey Mouse meet and greet location is being prepared at the Imagination! pavilion. This addition will provide guests with another opportunity to interact with the iconic character.
In the Living with the Land attraction, the Glimmering Greenhouses overlay will transform the ride into a festive display. This seasonal update enhances the visual experience for visitors.
Broader Park Enhancements
Disney is continually updating its parks. Recent news includes plans for dynamic pricing at parks, as stated by Disney CFO Hugh Johnston. There are also ongoing refurbishments at several resorts, including Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Grand Floridian Resort, Pop Century Resort, and Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, with some extending through 2026.
Technology and Future Experiences
Disney is also exploring innovative ways to enhance guest experiences. The company is investigating hands-free park guidance using Meta Ray-Ban glasses. This technology could offer new ways for visitors to navigate the parks and access information.
Another significant development is the creation of a "Zootopia" experience for the Tree of Life theater at Animal Kingdom. This indicates a continued focus on integrating popular intellectual properties into existing attractions.
"The holiday season at EPCOT truly offers something for everyone, combining entertainment, culture, and delicious food," a park representative stated regarding the upcoming festival.
Dining and Other Offerings
Guests can find a variety of dining options at EPCOT. Beyond the Holiday Kitchens, restaurants like Coral Reef will adjust their hours, shifting to dinner-only service starting January 2026. Modified menus and hours are also set for 2025 Thanksgiving dining at Disney World, indicating ongoing operational adjustments across the resort.
Specialty merchandise will also be available for the Festival of the Holidays, allowing guests to take home a piece of the festive magic. Santa Claus meet-and-greets will round out the traditional holiday offerings, providing a classic experience for families.
- Meet and greets with Santa Claus
- Specialty holiday merchandise
- Festive activities at CommuniCore Hall
- Dining options adapting to seasonal demand
The park aims to provide a comprehensive holiday experience, blending traditional festivities with new attractions and technological explorations. This ensures that both returning guests and first-time visitors have fresh experiences to discover during the holiday season.
