As we head into the final months of 2024, there’s still plenty of magic left at Disney World! Whether you’re catching a seasonal event, exploring holiday decor, or taking a ride before it closes for refurbishment, here are 10 things you won’t want to miss:
1. Ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Before Its Closure
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom is closing for a major refurbishment starting January 6, 2025, and will be down for over a year. This iconic ride is a must before it shuts down for so long!
2. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
Running through November 23, EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival offers delicious global bites, drinks, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect place for foodies to indulge before the festival wraps up.
3. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Celebrate the holidays at Magic Kingdom with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which runs on select nights from November 8 to December 22. Enjoy festive entertainment, treats, and special ride overlays during this magical event.
4. EPCOT Festival of the Holidays
Starting November 24, EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays celebrates holiday traditions from around the world. Experience the Candlelight Processional and indulge in the Holiday Cookie Stroll to make your visit extra sweet.
5. Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios’ Jollywood Nights, a festive event full of live music and holiday entertainment, is returning on select nights from November 10 through December 20. With rare character meet-and-greets and themed parties, it’s a fresh way to celebrate the season.
6. Holiday Decorations Across Disney World
The holiday season transforms Disney’s parks into festive wonderlands starting in November. Be sure to enjoy the dazzling Christmas lights, giant trees, and magical projections across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
7. The Candlelight Processional at EPCOT
The Candlelight Processional at EPCOT is a beloved tradition that retells the Christmas story — the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem — with a celebrity narrator, an orchestra, and a choir. Don’t miss this inspiring performance during the Festival of the Holidays.
8. The Disney Skyliner
Take in aerial views of Disney World’s festive decorations from the Disney Skyliner. This relaxing gondola ride connects several parks and resorts and adds a touch of magic to your holiday visit.
9. Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll
Explore Disney Springs during the Christmas Tree Stroll, a free, self-guided tour of elaborately decorated trees. Each tree is themed to a Disney movie or character, and it’s a great way to experience the holiday spirit outside the parks.
10. EPCOT’s World Showcase Holiday Storytellers
During the Festival of the Holidays, World Showcase pavilions feature storytellers sharing the holiday traditions of their respective countries. It’s a fun and educational way to experience global holiday celebrations.
With so much to see and do, Disney World is the perfect destination to close out 2024 on a magical note!
