Hi Lisa,
I am excited to see that you will be visiting in December. The holiday season is one of the best times of year to visit Disney World. Not only are the parks decorated beautifully, but there are several fun festivals and events that add to the magic.
First, there are no rules stating that you can not have a lock on your backpack in the
Walt Disney World Property Rules. You will need to ensure that any bag you bring is smaller than 24" long x 15" wide x 18" high and does not contain loose or dry ice. As you go through security, you will potentially need to open your bag for them go search if it flags on the walk-through security measures for any reason. This happens to me regularly so don't worry if you get pulled. They will quickly look at your bag and scan you with a metal-detecting wand and then you are off to your day of fun!
While you are at Disney World, check out the
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. This is my favorite event during the holiday season because you get to see how people celebrate the holidays all over the world. There are food booths that indulge you in the taste of the season, storytellers, and a chance to meet Santa Claus! There is also a Candlelight Processional with celebrity narrators that recall the story of Christmas alongside a full choir and orchestra. It is a truly special event that is both beautiful and emotional.
My family also can not visit during the holiday season without a ticket to
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party! The parade is spectacular, the treats are fun, and the snow on Main Street is the icing on the cake at this party. A lot of people don't realize that even though the party does not start until later, you can actually enter Magic Kingdom at 4 PM to start enjoying all the rides and attractions. We like to plan this party on a day when want to take it easy and relax at the resort during the day and then head over to Magic Kingdom for an evening of Christmas celebrations.
Happy Planning,
Jenna