Walt Disney World Holidays 2025: Festive Fun at Hollywood Studios & EPCOT

Friends, it is that time of year again: time to lean into all the cozy, sparkly, snow-filled feelings. Today, we are heading back to Walt Disney World to talk about the holiday magic in my two favorite parks: Hollywood Studios and EPCOT.

And yes, I know “Florida” and “snowfall” do not exactly go hand in hand, but trust me, there will be snoap drifting through the air, and it will be every bit as magical as it sounds.

Hollywood Studios at the Holidays

If you visit Hollywood Studios during the holiday season, be aware that you are stepping into a whole different era. The vintage decorations here are incredible: giant plastic pink poodles, tiny retro reindeer, and charming details everywhere you look. Have your camera ready because you’ll be stopping for photos every few minutes.

Be sure to catch the lighting of the park’s Christmas tree on Echo Lake each evening at dusk. It is such a simple moment, but it really sets the tone for the night ahead.

Sunset Seasons Greetings

This is a must-do in Hollywood Studios during the holidays. Every night, snoap falls along Sunset Boulevard while Olaf pops in on giant screens to say hello in the most adorable ways possible. The Tower of Terror turns into everything from a Muppet-made gingerbread house to a towering stack of toys. It’s whimsical, fun, and a little bit jaw-dropping.

Thinking About Disney Jollywood Nights?

If you are planning to attend Disney Jollywood Nights, I’ve got a few things for you to keep in mind. It is a separately ticketed event, and while it comes with some fantastic perks, snacks and drinks are not included. What you do get is event-specific entertainment, rare character meet-and-greets, and a park dressed up perfectly for a vintage-inspired holiday party.

If you do go, bring your dancing shoes; this is an evening for moving and mingling. And don’t forget that you can save 10% on your party tickets through Unlocked Magic. Hooray!

EPCOT During the Holidays

Now for my absolute favorite park at Christmastime: EPCOT. When the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays arrives, it brings with it food booths called Holiday Kitchens, Holiday Storytellers, and extra seasonal entertainment.

If you can, try to see as many of the Holiday Storytellers as possible during your park day. Each one shares the holiday traditions of their country, and it is so beautifully done. My personal favorite is Père Noël in the France pavilion.

Eating Around the World

Yes, the food items offered at the Holiday Kitchens are an additional cost, but I think eating around World Showcase during the Festival of the Holidays is one of the best ways to spend a park day. Try a mix of new-to-you dishes and longtime favorites.

And whatever you do, do not skip the Holiday Cookie Stroll. Here is how it works: pick up a Festival Passport, buy five different cookies (or five of the same one) at select booths, collect your stamps, and turn them in for a special prize. It is festive, it is delicious, and it is a little bit of a sugar rush in the very best way.

The Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional is one of the most moving things you can see at Walt Disney World. A celebrity narrator tells the Biblical Christmas story while a full choir and orchestra perform classic carols. There are three shows each evening, with the first featuring community groups alongside cast members and the later two featuring cast members only.

If you can, plan an EPCOT evening around it. It’s that beautiful.

Wrapping It Up

Whether it’s the retro holiday charm of Hollywood Studios or the global traditions of EPCOT, the holidays at Walt Disney World are something special. Maybe you’re dancing at Jollywood Nights, savoring cookies at the Festival of the Holidays, or taking in the Candlelight Processional; whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong.

Now I’m curious: which park is your favorite for ringing in the season? There are no wrong answers here. Happy early holidays, friends!