Walt Disney World 2020 Holiday Celebration Guide: Parks, Resorts & Tips
Walt Disney World has a reputation for turning the holiday season into a sparkling spectacle, decking out all four parks, each resort, and even Disney Springs with festive decor. In 2020, the COVID‑19 pandemic meant the scale was reduced, but families still found plenty to enjoy.
The celebrations kicked off on November 6 and ran through December 30. While the Magic Kingdom is famed for its extravagant decorations and ride overlays, the other three parks offer unique holiday experiences that shouldn’t be missed.
In early November, Epcot’s World Showcase transforms into the Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. At Animal Kingdom, Pandora: The World of Avatar receives seasonal touches near Satu’li Canteen. Hollywood Studios welcomes Santa Claus on a festive cavalcade. Keep reading for a resort‑by‑resort rundown that will help you make the most of the season.
4 Tips for a Smooth Disney Christmas
- Holidays are peak season, and crowds can stay high despite new health protocols. Try to visit the parks Monday‑Thursday for a lighter experience.
- Disney Springs sees the most traffic Friday‑Sunday. If you must go on a weekend, arrive right at opening time.
- At Magic Kingdom, search for characters on Main Street, U.S.A. and in Frontierland balconies.
- Holiday treats appear across the parks, Disney Springs, and resorts—cookies, Krispy Treats, and more. For unique items, consider taking a sample to your room for a midnight snack.
Magic Kingdom
One of the most requested features is the Jingle Cruise, a holiday overlay of the Jungle Cruise. In 2020 the beloved attraction returned, complete with Christmas jokes and Santa hats. If you’re eager to ride, arrive early or wait until the last boat leaves.
Character cavalcades are a holiday highlight. Expect Mickey, Minnie, and friends strolling with oversized Christmas trees or Goofy constructing a gingerbread house.
- Related: 10 Best Disney Rides for Little Kids and Toddlers
Epcot
Although Epcot is often seen as an adult park, the holiday season brings family‑friendly fun. The Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays opens on November 27 and runs through December 30, offering themed drinks and snacks from the World Showcase pavilions.
For quiet moments, visit the America Gardens Theater for The Voices of Liberty. Due to distancing rules, the group now performs outside the American Adventure rotunda, still singing classic holiday songs.
Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree is a paid scavenger hunt that takes guests through World Showcase to collect ornaments and chart their locations.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge dominates, but holiday fun starts at the park entrance with character cavalcades that pass Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and end near Star Tours. Pixar pals like Buzz Lightyear and Edna Mode appear in festive gear, and Santa may make a surprise appearance in a candy‑apple red convertible.
Families can reserve Minnie’s Holiday Dine at Hollywood & Vine for a character meal. Socially distant selfies with Minnie and friends in holiday costumes are a must‑do.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom offers subtle holiday touches. Near the Discovery River, look for festive flotillas featuring Mickey and Minnie, Discovery Island drummers, and a Santa character enjoying the park’s sights.
Disney Springs
Santa’s Winter Watercade brings the jolly old elf to Lake Buena Vista on decorated pontoon boats. Following that, the Disney Christmas Tree Stroll—an accessible version of the popular trail—lets you view themed trees such as Star Wars, Haunted Mansion, and Mary Poppins.
At night, Disney Springs may feature a magical snowfall in the Town Center and West Side neighborhoods.
Resorts
Guests staying at Disney resorts will find grand Christmas trees in each lobby, each crafted to match the hotel’s theme, along with garlands and lights. While holiday treats remain available, the iconic gingerbread displays are not returning this year due to health and safety considerations.
