A festive favorite worth planning for again and again
Earlier this month, I spent a full day at EPCOT soaking in one of my very favorite seasonal events: the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. There’s just something about EPCOT during Christmas that feels especially meaningful. Maybe it’s the way traditions from around the world are celebrated side by side, or how familiar spaces feel brand new once they’re dressed for the season. Either way, it’s a day that always leaves me feeling full in every sense of the word.
The Festival of the Holidays runs November 28 through December 30, 2025, and yes, I’m already planning ahead for 2026. If you love Christmas but want it served with culture, storytelling and incredible food, this festival is not to be missed.
A Global Celebration of the Season
What makes this festival so special is how naturally it fits EPCOT’s spirit. As you wander World Showcase, each pavilion highlights its own holiday traditions, from festive storytellers to decorations and music that reflect how the season is celebrated around the globe. It feels both educational and deeply joyful, which is a balance Disney does so well.
It’s easy to make this a slow, wandering day. Sip something warm, listen to a storyteller, browse the shops and let the park set the pace.
Entertainment That Feels Meaningful
The entertainment lineup during Festival of the Holidays is truly special, and nothing captures that more than the Candlelight Processional. This is one of those experiences that feels timeless no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
Hearing the Christmas story told by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a mass choir, full orchestra, herald trumpets, and the Voices of Liberty, is powerful in the best way. It’s reverent, moving and a beautiful pause in the middle of the holiday hustle. If you’re visiting during the festival, I always recommend making time for this.
Throughout the park, you’ll also find seasonal performances and musical groups that add to the atmosphere without ever feeling overwhelming.
Holiday Kitchens: Small Plates, Big Cheer
Of course, no EPCOT festival is complete without the food, and the Holiday Kitchens absolutely deliver. Scattered throughout the park, these seasonal booths serve up festive bites and drinks inspired by holiday flavors from around the world.
This is one of my favorite ways to “do dinner” at EPCOT during the holidays. Share a few things, try something new and enjoy the fact that everything feels intentionally seasonal. This has been a favorite way to spend a Disney day for my family since the boys were little!
Festive Extras That Make It Fun
If you love interactive experiences, EPCOT delivers here too.
Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt is a fun way to explore the park with purpose, especially for families or anyone who enjoys a little challenge with their strolling. It adds just enough structure to keep things interesting for the littles!
The Glimmering Greenhouses in Living with the Land are another favorite. The attraction is transformed with twinkling lights and festive overlays that feel cozy and magical. It’s classic EPCOT, holiday-style.
And then there’s the Holiday Cookie Stroll, which is exactly what it sounds like and just as delightful. Collect cookies from participating kitchens and redeem your stroll for a special treat at the end. It’s a sweet way to sample the festival and lean fully into the season.
Already Looking Ahead
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is one of those events that reminds me why I love Disney during this season. If this sounds like your kind of holiday magic, now is the time to start thinking ahead. I’m already helping clients plan 2026 holiday visits!
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