The holiday season has officially kicked off at Disney World, bringing festive cheer, glistening decorations, and plenty of magical moments, but this December, a few changes that could change your visit.
Magic Kingdom
With Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney’s Jollywood Nights underway, it already feels like Christmas at Disney World. But as magical as the season is, there are a few important updates and changes you’ll want to know about this December.
1. A Parade Change
One of the biggest holiday highlights is the return of Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade to Magic Kingdom. This is the parade that is exclusive to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party — that is, until one week of the year! From December 23rd through December 31st, guests can catch this fan-favorite parade during the day. That means no special party ticket is required.
Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
The parade will run at 12 PM and 3 PM daily, though times are subject to change, so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app before your visit. During this period, there will be no Festival of Fantasy Parade, so this is your chance to see Mickey, Minnie, the Disney Princesses, toy soldiers, and even Santa Claus spreading holiday cheer through Magic Kingdom. Since it’s only around for a short time, make sure to plan your day so you don’t miss this festive must-see.
Catch this parade during the day!
2. New Year’s Eve Celebrations
If you’re visiting Disney World for New Year’s Eve, there are even more exciting celebrations to look forward to. EPCOT will host Luminous: The Symphony of Us at 6:30 PM, followed by Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration at 11:54 PM on December 31st. The park transforms into one big party, with DJs stationed throughout World Showcase and one of the most impressive countdowns you’ll find anywhere.
New Year’s Eve 2024 at EPCOT
Over at Magic Kingdom, the Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks will light up the sky on December 30th and 31st at 7:30 PM and 11:50 PM. Guests visiting earlier in the week can still enjoy Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks nightly from December 22nd through the 29th at 8:30 PM. Whether you’re celebrating early or staying up to ring in 2026, there’s no shortage of nighttime magic across the parks.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Magic Kingdom
3. THE Gingerbread House is Gone
Finally, there’s a notable update at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa as the iconic Gingerbread House display will not be returning — for this year. While that might be disappointing for fans of this long-standing holiday tradition, there’s something new to enjoy in its place.
2024 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House
The resort recently opened The Perch, a brand-new lobby bar that offers elegant cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere in one of Disney’s most beautiful resorts. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the parks and soak in some holiday ambiance. Be sure to check out our full review of The Perch to see why it’s worth a visit.
Review: Come With Us to the Grand Floridian’s New Bar!
The Perch
December at Disney World brings plenty of holiday fun, from parades and fireworks to festive new experiences. Be sure to plan ahead and take advantage of these limited-time events before the year ends!
For more tips for your holiday season, follow AllEars.net.
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What is something that you look forward to at Disney World during the holiday season? Tell us in the comments below!
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Replacing the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House with a bar is really going to excite my kid who looks forward to the house every year.
Not interested in another bar at the grand Floridian. I enjoyed the gingerbread house – and it was something kids could enjoy. Nice move, Disney. Shutting the kids out
A bar is not an exciting replacement for the gingerbread house. SOOOOOO disappointed
Did they take the tree away too???