Experience the Enchanting Holiday Cheer of Merry Menagerie at Animal Kingdom

Who doesn’t love a warm greeting from a friendly animal?  Now, you can get just that at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.  Cue the Merry Menagerie.

Merry Menagerie is a delightful daytime adventure that brings Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island to life with beautifully handcrafted animal puppets.

Created with great care by Disney Live Entertainment, these life-size arctic creatures—polar bears, reindeer, foxes, penguins, and more—are animated by talented puppeteers who make them walk, blink, and even glide right above the guests.

The Merry Menagerie is up close and interactive. Guests don’t just watch from afar; they get to engage directly with these puppets. When someone reaches out to touch a polar bear puppet, even with the puppeteer visible nearby, the animal still feels incredibly real in that moment. This believable interaction highlights not only the performers’ expertise but also the magic of puppetry itself.

At Animal Kingdom, guests have the chance to meet some delightful wintry pals for magical moments you won’t want to miss:

Adding to the festive atmosphere, talented musicians—like violinists and steel drum players—fill the air with joyful melodies that perfectly complement the puppet fun.

Merry Menagerie makes special appearances throughout the day on Discovery Island, now through December 31. It’s just one of the festive experiences awaiting you and your loved ones at Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the holiday season.

The lineup of Merry Menagerie animals can change as they wander in and out to greet guests, adding a bit of surprise to your visit.

You can find exclusive Merry Menagerie merchandise by visiting the Island Mercantile in Discovery Island. This year’s lineup features a cozy wintry blue spirit jersey, a fun T-shirt, collectible pins, and stunning ornaments — all showcasing the playful puppets and festive flair of the park, while supplies last.

Right outside the shop, be sure to check out artist Rob Kaz’s latest creation, “Merry Moment,” a joyful artwork featuring Mickey Mouse alongside the Merry Menagerie animals in front of the iconic Tree of Life.

Keep an eye out for Rob’s signature little frog, Beau, cleverly tucked into the piece!

This holiday season, as the Merry Menagerie brings extra sparkle to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) continues its proud tradition of teaming up with communities to protect wildlife in their natural habitats – including some chilly pals featured as charming puppets. For three decades, DCF has been a trailblazer in safeguarding animals and their environments worldwide.

Thanks to its support of groups like Polar Bears International, DCF has played a key role in protecting polar bears, their cubs, and their icy sea homes. It has also backed the National Geographic Society and the Global Penguin Society to support penguin conservation efforts across Argentina, Chile, and New Zealand.

Whether it’s the majestic trees or the charming puppets, the holiday season at Disney’s Animal Kingdom bursts with enchantment and natural splendor. Dive into festive fun with magical experiences, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and opportunities to support wildlife. Gather your holiday cheer and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Learn more at the Disney Parks Blog.