The holidays are always magical at Walt Disney World, but there’s something especially heartwarming about the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. From November 28 through December 30, 2025, guests are invited to explore the beauty, traditions, flavors, and music of Christmas. Enjoy the seasonal celebrations from around the world — all in one unforgettable Epcot festival!
The Candlelight Processional: A Moving Holiday Tradition
One of the most beloved traditions at EPCOT is the Candlelight Processional, held nightly at the America Gardens Theatre. This breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story features:
- Celebrity narrators
- A full orchestra
- Performances by local choirs and Disney professional choral groups
Past narrators have included fan-favorites like Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, and Josh Gad — bringing an extra dose of holiday magic and star power.
💡 Pro tip: Reserve a Candlelight Processional Dining Package to enjoy a great meal and guarantee your seat for this emotional and inspiring performance.
Holiday Traditions from Around the World
What makes this festival truly special is how it celebrates Christmas and winter holidays globally. Around World Showcase, cultural storytellers share the traditions, music, and history of the season from their homelands.
- In Norway, meet the mischievous Barn Santa
- In France, Père Noël shares the charming French Christmas story
- Discover La Befana in Italy, Las Posadas in Mexico, and more!
These storytelling encounters bring the season to life in meaningful and heartwarming ways for the whole family.
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
Don’t miss JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season, a high-energy concert that fills EPCOT with the sounds of Christmas and Kwanzaa through:
- Gospel
- R&B
- Jazz
This uplifting performance will have you clapping along and embracing the true joy of the holidays.
Holiday Kitchens & the Cookie Stroll
EPCOT’s Holiday Kitchens serve up seasonal favorites and festive bites from around the world. From savory plates to decadent sweets, there’s something for every palate.
And don’t forget the Holiday Cookie Stroll! 🍪
- Grab your festival passport
- Purchase five featured cookies
- Earn a free holiday treat when you complete your stroll!
The best part? You don’t have to do it all in one day — the cookie stroll can be completed over multiple visits.
Santa Claus & International Santas
Santa is in the park during the festival for photo ops and storytelling! Be sure to visit with the man in red himself — and catch his international counterparts, too:
- Barn Santa in Norway
- Père Noël in France
- And more holiday characters across World Showcase!
Each offers a unique glimpse into holiday folklore and seasonal magic from around the world.
🎁 Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition
Looking for a family-friendly activity? Join Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition, a park-wide scavenger hunt that kids and adults love.
- Purchase a themed game board
- Search for Olaf hiding with holiday traditions throughout World Showcase
- Use stickers to complete your map
- Turn it in for a holiday surprise prize!
Living with the Land: Glimmering Greenhouses
EPCOT doesn’t just decorate its walkways — even its attractions get festive! Don’t miss the holiday overlay on Living with the Land, where the Glimmering Greenhouses are decked out in sparkling lights and seasonal décor. It’s a peaceful and twinkly way to enjoy the holidays indoors.
Festival Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2025
Whether you’re sipping cocoa, listening to live music, or learning about holiday traditions from around the world, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is a celebration not to miss. It’s among the top 4 Epcot festivals of the year! 😉
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