Mickey dressed in holiday clothes in front of a Christmas tree.
  • On Jul 5, 2026
    Latresa from AL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My family and I want to come to experience Disney around Christmas. Unfortunately we won’t arrive until December 23 what’s some things we can do to experience the magic of Disney with two 5 yr olds at Disney for the first time

    Seasons greetings to you, Latresa, and please allow me to wish you a welcome to planDisney that's warmer than a cup of hot cocoa in Florida. I'm so thrilled to hear that you're planning a visit to Walt Disney World during the holiday season. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year. 

    There will be plenty of merry magic to be had upon your arrival. One of the great things about visiting deep in the holiday season is that because Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will have concluded for the season, you'll be able to see some of the holiday themed entertainment included with your regular Magic Kingdom admission. For most of the season, Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show are only available to Guests with a party ticket separate from daytime admission. The last night of the party is on December 22, which means each day after, this Christmastime parade and fireworks show will be performed in place of the normal offerings for a little extra holiday cheer.

    Each of the Disney Theme Parks will be decked out in their holiday finest with holiday music playing throughout. You'll also find seasonal food and beverage items to try for even more holiday spirit. If merchandise is your thing, be sure to make a detour through some of the shops to see what holiday-themed treasures await. There might even be special character meals or meet-and-greets, maybe even the big guy himself, Santa Claus. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog and official Disney social media accounts for all the latest as details for this upcoming holiday season unfold.

    Oh, what fun it is to see the magic through the eyes of little ones! Since you'll have two very special first timers with you, don't forget to pick up a complimentary 1st Visit button either at Guest Services, your Disney Resort hotel or at most merchandise locations.

    Speaking of Disney Resort hotels, they go all out with decorations and holiday-themed activities. The Christmas tree at Disney's Wilderness Lodge is the most beautiful one I've ever seen. I'm not sure if you've already booked your hotel or not, but there really is nothing like staying in the middle of the magic. You might want to bookmark the special offers page on the Walt Disney World website to see if any deals pop up that you can take advantage of. 

    I do want to let you know that the most wonderful time of the year can also be among the busiest. To help maximize your time, I recommend looking into purchasing Lightning Lane Passes. Lightning Lane Multi Pass will allow you to prebook up to three attractions and then you'll be eligible to book another after you've tapped in for each one. You can also purchase a Lightning Lane Single Pass for some of the most popular attractions to help ensure you'll get to experience them. If it's in your budget, Lightning Lane Premier Pass is the ultimate way to experience all attractions with Lightning Lane queues at your convenience, no return time needed. 

    Latresa, your trip is looking merry and bright, and I hope this has been helpful to you as you plan. Please visit us again if you have any other planning questions we can answer for you.

    Grab hold of your dreams!
    Melanie

thumbnail image for Melanie

Meet the Panelist: Melanie, Tennessee

Hiya pals!  I’m Melanie, a Walt Disney World Resort specialist from Tennessee where I’m a dog mom to my very own little Country Bear, Trixie Claire.  Need restaurant recommendations, EPCOT festival tips or tricks for traveling with older adults?  I’m your girl!  I’m ready to help you with all this and much more.  Learn More About Melanie

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