The holiday season has officially begun at Walt Disney World Resort. The festivities commenced with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony held at Disney Springs on Thursday night.
For those who weren’t able to attend, here’s a recap of the enchanting event and various ways families can embrace the holiday spirit at Walt Disney World!
Celebrate the Holidays at Disney Springs
Visitors at Disney Springs experienced a delightful holiday moment as they participated in the countdown for the Christmas tree lighting. A selected family from the crowd had the honor of sprinkling pixie dust on the tree, which illuminated with sparkling lights, signaling the commencement of the festive season throughout Disney World.
The event radiated the enchanting spirit of the holidays, featuring spectacular entertainment and the inaugural snowfall of the season in Town Center at Disney Springs.
Discover the Holiday Tree Stroll
The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth returns this festive season! Grab a guide to explore the 19 uniquely themed trees scattered throughout Disney Springs.
Interactive Tree Experience
While you wander, utilize the guide’s stickers to identify each tree and redeem them at designated locations for a special treat (quantities are limited, so act quickly).
This year features trees inspired by beloved films and characters, including Pixar’s Coco, Disney’s Moana, and the charming The Princess and the Frog. Don’t forget to bring your MagicBand+, as some trees offer interactive elements!
Explore the Disney Enchanted Holiday Art Gallery
New Art Gallery at Disney Springs
This holiday season, Disney Springs introduces the Disney Enchanted Holiday Art Gallery. Visitors can find unique art pieces, prints, and various artworks from 11 talented artists, many of whom hail from Florida. The collection features a diverse array of art styles and techniques, including original pieces and canvas wraps.
Art Inspired by Disney
Each artist brings their distinctive style, influenced by their passion for Disney. The showcased pieces highlight iconic Disney films and characters, including favorites like Mickey and Minnie, Alice in Wonderland, and Beauty and the Beast. Guests are encouraged to check the schedule for opportunities to meet the artists during signing events!
Festive Treats and Drinks Await
Situated among vintage airplane components and rugged holiday decorations, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar has elevated its holiday ambiance with an array of festive decorations sourced from Jock’s personal collection.
For delightful drinks and snacks, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar offers a holiday-themed menu available until January 4. Guests can enjoy traditional beverages alongside new culinary creations such as A Wreath of Wellington and Boughs of Holly Deviled Eggs.
Sweet Indulgences for the Season
If you’re craving something sweeter, indulge in a North Pole Bar at Amorette’s Patisserie or savor the Mickey Chocolate-covered Gingerbread Cookies at The Ganachery. Additionally, Marketplace Snacks features the Sven Reindeer Food Waffle Sundae for a festive treat.
For a comprehensive overview of this year’s top food and drink options at Disney Springs, refer to the 2025 holiday foodie guide.
Meet Santa Claus at Disney Springs and More Holiday Entertainment
Holiday Entertainment at Disney Springs
There’s plenty of excitement to be found! As you stroll through the Marketplace at Disney Springs, enjoy festive music from DJ Sleigh, featuring new tracks from the Jonas Brothers’ holiday film, A Very Jonas Christmas Movie, now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
Additionally, look out for entertaining performances by the Toy Soldier Stilt Walkers and Drummers, the Holiday Skaters, and the beloved Douglas Fir, ensuring your holiday shopping experience is filled with joy!
Shopping and Holiday Displays
While there, don’t miss the chance to grab some of the top items from your Christmas List at World of Disney, and be sure to check out the festive window displays that add to the holiday spirit.
Before you head out to enjoy the nighttime holiday entertainment at Magic Kingdom or sample the holiday-inspired dishes at the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, be sure to stop by Santa Claus at Santa’s Marketplace for a last-minute check of your Christmas wish list before sending it to the North Pole. Don’t forget to use the My Disney Experience app to join the virtual queue!
Which Christmastime experience at Disney Springs are you most excited to enjoy this season?