There’s something truly special about EPCOT during the holiday season. From November 28 through December 30, the park hosts the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays—a month-long celebration that brings global holiday traditions to life with festive food, joyful entertainment, and magical moments you can’t find anywhere else.
Here’s why this festival should be at the top of your holiday plans.
Perfect Sweater Weather
Florida in December strikes the ideal balance—cool enough to break out your favorite holiday sweater but not so chilly you’ll need layers of winter gear. It’s the kind of weather that makes sipping hot chocolate while walking through World Showcase feel just right. And yes, even Figment gets cozy in his now-iconic Christmas sweater!
Decked Out in Holiday Style
EPCOT is stunning year-round, but during the holidays, it shines—literally. From a giant, glittering Christmas tree at the World Showcase entrance to garlands draped across pavilions, the park is bursting with photo-worthy backdrops. Even beloved attractions like Living with the Land get a holiday overlay with glowing lights and seasonal touches that make the familiar feel fresh and festive.
Experience Holidays Around the World
There’s no place quite like EPCOT to explore the world’s holiday traditions in one magical day. Each pavilion offers a unique perspective—from La Befana in Italy to Las Posadas in Mexico. It’s a chance for families to learn together, appreciate new cultures, and maybe even adopt a new holiday tradition or two.
Candlelight Processional
This beloved Disney tradition brings the true meaning of the season to life with a powerful retelling of the Christmas story, performed by a celebrity narrator, a full orchestra, and a choir. Held at the America Gardens Theatre, the Candlelight Processional is an emotional, awe-inspiring experience that often becomes a holiday must-do for returning guests.
Family Fun: Olaf’s Hunt and the Cookie Stroll
The festival is packed with kid-friendly activities too. Join Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition, a delightful scavenger hunt around World Showcase where little ones help Olaf collect traditions from each country. And for sweet seekers, the Holiday Cookie Stroll lets guests sample seasonal cookies at different booths—and earn a special treat after completing the list. It’s festive fun for all ages!
Make It a Tradition
With cozy weather, stunning decorations, meaningful cultural experiences, and plenty of treats to try, EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays blends the magic of Disney with the warmth of the season. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or making it a yearly tradition, this event captures the joy of the holidays in a way only EPCOT can.
A Season to Remember at EPCOT
From joyful traditions to glowing attractions and cozy weather perfect for exploring, EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays offers a unique blend of celebration and culture that you won’t find anywhere else at Walt Disney World.
Whether you’re sipping cocoa under twinkling lights, learning about winter customs from around the globe, or just snapping that perfect family holiday photo, it’s a season of magic that brings people together—and one you’ll want to return to year after year.
