There is no shortage of holiday magic throughout Walt Disney World in November and December, and Magic Kingdom is no exception. The park is already full of nostalgia and charm on any ordinary day, but once November arrives, every corner somehow feels brighter and even more joyful.
If you’re planning a visit this season, be sure to keep this guide handy. These Magic Kingdom holiday must-dos will help you make the most of your time and soak up every bit of the festive fun and merriment!
Holiday Decor and Photo Ops
Magic Kingdom is beautiful all year long, but the holidays take it to a whole new level. From the moment you step onto Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll see garland-draped lampposts, wreaths hanging overhead, and window displays filled with vintage-style decor. And of course, there’s the iconic Town Square Christmas tree – covered in oversized ornaments, red bows, popcorn garland, and twinkling lights. It makes the perfect backdrop for festive photos.
If you love holiday pictures, be sure to keep an eye out for PhotoPass photographers along Main Street and near the tree. Many of them offer special holiday Magic Shots this time of year, which is a fun extra touch!
Jingle Cruise Holiday Overlay
I have a serious passion for Jungle Cruise at all times of the year, but during the holiday season it gets a little makeover that makes me love it even more! From early November through the New Year, this hilarious attraction becomes Jingle Cruise. Holiday decor adorns every scene of the ride, the ever-merry skippers lean into the seasonal silliness with wonderfully corny holiday puns and jokes throughout the entire “10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won’t soon forget!” And, of course, you get to see the 8th wonder of the world – the backside of water – in all its glory. If you enjoy lighthearted Disney fun, you will love experiencing this festive adventure!
Frozen Holiday Surprise
If you’re visiting Magic Kingdom during November and December, be sure to stick around after sunset for Frozen Holiday Surprise, a limited-time castle projection show featuring Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Kristoff, and even Olaf’s adorable snowgie friends. They all gather together to sing and celebrate the season while decorating Cinderella Castle.
The show is short, but it’s filled with lots of heartwarming Frozen magic. It’s the perfect way to end an evening at the park, and it’s such a treat for Frozen fans of any age!
Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe
Did you know it’s Christmas every single day at Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square? This charming little shop sells Disney ornaments, stockings, and holiday decor, year-round. And my favorite part of all is the dedicated area of the gift shop for writing and sending letters to Santa Claus!
Near the registers, look for the bright red mailbox labeled “Letters for Santa.” In the wooden sleigh nearby, you’ll find paper, crayons, and pencils ready to use. Sit down, write your letter, and drop it inside the mailbox. And, just like that, you’ve added a little extra Christmas magic to your trip!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday best, snow gently falling on Main Street U.S.A., and amazing holiday entertainment, then Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a must for you!
This separately ticketed event is held on select nights from 7 PM to midnight, and is jam-packed with holiday fun. You’ll enjoy Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show, Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration castle stage show, holiday attraction overlays, and party-exclusive character meet-and-greets. Throw in lighter crowds and complimentary hot cocoa and cookies and it’s a truly magical night from beginning to end!
With festive rides, beautiful decorations, sweet holiday treats, and unforgettable entertainment, Magic Kingdom absolutely shines this time of year. Whether you’re laughing your way through Jingle Cruise, watching the castle transform during Frozen Holiday Surprise, or taking photos under Main Street’s garland, your holiday visit is sure to be filled with memories you’ll cherish forever.
If you’re exploring the rest of Walt Disney World during the season, be sure to check out my holiday guides for EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom as well. Each park brings its own unique offerings, and there is so much Christmas cheer waiting to be discovered!
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