Hi, Federico! Thanks for bringing your question to planDisney!
I'm so happy to answer this question because attending a performance of the
Candlelight Processional at
EPCOT is one of my favorite ways to celebrate the
holiday season at
Walt Disney World Resort. This moving telling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a choir and orchestra, is certain to put you in the holiday spirit!
Candlelight Processional is a popular Christmastime event, and the theater can fill up quickly for performances. Booking a
Candlelight Processional Dining Package allows you to enjoy a delicious meal at one of several EPCOT restaurants, while also ensuring that you have a seat at one of that day's Candlelight Processional performances.
To answer your question, I think it all depends on whether you have a preference as to which celebrity narrator you'll get to see for the Candlelight Processional. If it doesn't matter to you who is narrating your show, and you have the flexibility to change your vacation itinerary, then you might want to switch your
park reservations to book the dining package to see Marlee Matlin. With the dining package, you won't need to worry about arriving quite so early to line up for a seat in the theater.
That being said, I was lucky enough to see Neil Patrick Harris narrate Candlelight Processional last year, and he was wonderful. He's a favorite actor of mine, and I always wanted to see him as a celebrity narrator. I was thrilled when my trip dates lined up with his scheduled shows last year! If you have your heart set on seeing Neil Patrick Harris, then I think it's fine to go ahead with your planned EPCOT day.
If you decide to keep your original itinerary, be sure to stop by
Regal Eagle Smokehouse when you arrive at EPCOT. They may have same-day Candlelight Processional Dining Packages available to book if you would like to dine there. If you are unable to book a same-day dining package, I recommend arriving early to wait in line for the first Candlelight Processional show of the evening. The Candlelight Processional is performed three times each night, so if you're unable to secure a seat for the first show, you'll still have two more chances. Also, there are some areas outside of the theater where you will still be able to see and hear the show if the theater seating is completely filled.
Federico, I hope this information is helpful as you plan for your trip. I'm certain that no matter who narrates the show, attending the Candlelight Processional will be a special holiday experience that you will remember for years to come. If we can help you with any other questions, please feel free to
visit planDisney again any time! Wishing you a happy holiday season and a magical Walt Disney World Resort vacation!
Samantha