Welcome to planDisney, Cheryl! I'm so glad to be able to answer your question today.
Candlelight Processional is a cherished Disney tradition that dates back 70 years to the first holiday season at the Disneyland Resort in 1955. I totally get that you want to integrate it into your holiday plans this year, so let's chat about what it will look like if you want to try and get into a performance using the standby line.
Candlelight Processional has a standby line for each performance, and many guests do get seats that way. Just know that it's a very popular event, so strategy and a bit of patience help. I recommend arriving at least an hour early to queue for standby. For especially popular
narrators, like Jordan Fisher, Henry Winkler, or Gary Sinise, even an hour may not guarantee you a spot for the next seating. In those cases, you might find yourself waiting through the length of one performance and then entering for the following show once seats open up.
If you're determined to lock it in without the wait, the
Candlelight Processional Dining Package is the most reliable route. It includes a meal plus a guaranteed seating voucher for a specific performance that day, which takes the guesswork out of it. If your plans are more spontaneous, keep an eye out for the same-day Quick-Service dining package at
Regal Eagle Smokehouse. It's sometimes available day-of, subject to availability, and can be a fantastic last-minute way to secure seats without a table-service reservation.
If you choose to roll the dice with standby, I have a few friendly tips! Check the
My Disney Experience app for showtimes and arrive early at the America Gardens Theatre for the performance you're targeting. Be prepared to wait, and keep in mind that there's the possibility you may be waiting through one full show before you're seated. Parties are seated as space allows once Dining Package guests are admitted, so flexibility is your friend here!
I hope this answers your question, Cheryl, and please let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you plan your magical trip to
EPCOT!
Jessica