Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Disney World: Special Events Guide
Disney World is known for its year-round magic, but the holiday season brings an extra layer of enchantment with special events that transform the parks into a festive wonderland. Three standout events are Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and the new Jollywood Nights. Each of these events offers unique entertainment, parades, shows, and exclusive experiences that make the holidays at Disney World truly unforgettable. Here’s a guide to what you can expect from these holiday events, including dates, entertainment offerings, and the benefits of purchasing separate tickets.
1. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
Location: Magic Kingdom Park
Typical Dates: Mid-August to October 31st
Time: 7:00 PM to Midnight (with early entry at 4:00 PM for ticket holders)
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a family-friendly Halloween celebration at Magic Kingdom Park. The event is packed with spooky fun that’s designed to be “not so scary,” making it perfect for guests of all ages. With the purchase of a separate event ticket, guests can enjoy a variety of exclusive entertainment and activities.
Entertainment: The event features the popular “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,” a lively procession that includes Disney characters in their Halloween costumes, along with appearances by the Haunted Mansion’s Grim Grinning Ghosts, the spectral Bride, and even the Headless Horseman. Another highlight is the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” a stage show in front of Cinderella Castle featuring the Sanderson Sisters from the beloved movie Hocus Pocus as they conjure up Disney villains. The night ends with a spectacular “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular” fireworks show that lights up the sky with Halloween-themed pyrotechnics and projections.
Trick-or-Treating: Guests can trick-or-treat throughout the park, collecting candy at various stations. Even adults are encouraged to join in the fun, making this a true all-ages experience.
Character Meet-and-Greets: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party offers the chance to meet Disney characters in their Halloween costumes, as well as rare characters that only come out during special events.
Attractions: Many of Magic Kingdom’s attractions remain open during the party, and some even receive special Halloween overlays. This is a great time to experience popular rides with shorter wait times.
2. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Location: Magic Kingdom Park
Typical Dates: Early November to December 22nd
Time: 7:00 PM to Midnight (with early entry at 4:00 PM for ticket holders)
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a festive celebration that brings the joy of the holiday season to Magic Kingdom. This event is perfect for those who want to experience the magic of Christmas at Disney World, complete with snow on Main Street, U.S.A., and plenty of seasonal cheer.
Entertainment: The “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” is a highlight of the event, featuring holiday floats, Disney characters in festive attire, marching toy soldiers, and, of course, Santa Claus. The parade is followed by the “Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks” show, a dazzling display that combines festive music, fireworks, and holiday-themed projections on Cinderella Castle. Guests can also enjoy “Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration,” a stage show that features Mickey and friends singing Christmas carols and spreading holiday cheer.
Holiday Treats: Guests at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party can enjoy complimentary holiday treats, including cookies and hot cocoa, at various locations throughout the park. Special holiday-themed food and beverages are also available for purchase.
Character Meet-and-Greets: Meet your favorite Disney characters dressed in their holiday best, including rare characters like Scrooge McDuck, Jack Skellington as “Sandy Claws,” and the Seven Dwarfs.
Attractions: Like the Halloween party, many of Magic Kingdom’s attractions are open during the event, with some featuring special holiday overlays. This is a great opportunity to experience these attractions with shorter wait times.
3. Jollywood Nights
Location: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Typical Dates: Select nights from mid-November to late December
Time: 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM (with early entry at 7:00 PM for ticket holders)
Jollywood Nights is a brand-new holiday event that debuted in 2023 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This event offers a unique blend of holiday cheer with the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood, creating a festive experience unlike any other at Disney World.
Entertainment: Jollywood Nights features a mix of live entertainment and holiday-themed shows that capture the spirit of the season with a touch of Hollywood elegance. Expect to see performances that blend classic holiday tunes with Hollywood-style productions, offering a sophisticated yet festive atmosphere.
Holiday Decorations: The entire park is decked out in glamorous holiday decorations, with each area reflecting the style and charm of old Hollywood. The immersive holiday decor makes for stunning photo opportunities throughout the park.
Themed Experiences: In addition to the entertainment, Jollywood Nights offers themed experiences, including character meet-and-greets with Disney characters dressed in their holiday finest. Special photo opportunities and unique holiday treats are also part of the experience.
Attractions: Select attractions at Hollywood Studios remain open during Jollywood Nights, allowing guests to enjoy the park’s rides with shorter wait times while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Why Purchase Tickets to These Events?
These special holiday events offer experiences that are not available during regular park hours, making them a must-do for Disney fans and holiday enthusiasts alike. With exclusive entertainment, themed food and drink options, and the opportunity to enjoy the parks with smaller crowds, these events provide a unique and magical way to celebrate the holidays at Disney World.
Additionally, guests who stay at Disney resorts during these events often receive additional perks, such as early access to event tickets, early entry to the parks on event days, and more. Purchasing a separate ticket for one of these holiday events can significantly enhance your Disney World experience, offering memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Holidays at Disney World with byHannah Vacations
Whether you’re looking to experience the spooky fun of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, the festive cheer of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, or the glamorous holiday celebration of Jollywood Nights, Disney World has a holiday event that’s perfect for you. Planning a trip during the holiday season? Let byHannah Vacations help you navigate the details, from securing event tickets to planning your perfect holiday itinerary. Contact us today to start planning your magical holiday getaway!