Celebrating the happiest season of all at the most magical place on earth? If you plan on spending any part of the holidays at Walt Disney World, here’s everything to knock off your “foodie” bucket list!
We’ve got the scoop on sweet freebies found exclusively at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and what you can’t miss at Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays. Plus find out where to dine on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and each day in-between!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
From now through December 21st, guests can attend this annual ticketed event on select nights granting after-hours entry into Magic Kingdom.
Foodie Party Favors
While partying with all your favorite Disney characters (Santa included!) and checking out dozens of iconic park attractions, don’t forget to look for giant Peppermint Stick Treat Markers signaling free goodies for the whole family!
In previous years, freebie locations were limited to simply Snickerdoodles and Hot Cocoa all across the board. But now party-goers might not want to miss out on any of these yummy surprises!
(Pro-Tip! The classic Snickerdoodles and Hot Cocoa is still available at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café!)
- Santa Claus Cookie and Sno-Cone at Auntie Gravity’s
- Peppermint Crunch Cookie and Nestle Chocolate Milk at Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus
- Ginger Molasses Cookies (these have that “holiday spice” kick!) and Egg Nog at the Ticket Booth in Liberty Square
- An assortment of all cookie options (plus an allergy-friendly option) and Apple Cider at Pinocchio Village Haus
- Dove Chocolates and Sparkling Apple Cider at Friar’s Nook
- Soft Snowman Pretzel and Sno-Cone at Tortuga Tavern in Adventureland
Hungry for More?
For the serious foodie fanatics: try these exclusive Very Merry Christmas Party treats available for purchase.
Old and Favorites Reinvented at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments
If you can’t get enough of Disney’s staple Mickey-shaped waffles, be sure to stop by Sleepy Hollow Refreshments for Red Velvet Mickey Waffles topped with Vanilla Ice-cream, Whipped Cream, Caramel Sauce, and Holiday Sprinkles.
Are you a fan of the Pumpkin King? Put the nightmare back in Christmas with Sleepy Hollow’s Sandy Claws Push-Pop. This dessert features Orange Vanilla Cake, Cranberry Cherry Mousse, White Crispy Pearls, Cream Cheese Buttercream, Holiday Sprinkles, and a Jack Skellington “Sandy Claws” White Chocolate.
Yule Log Love
Lovers of the Yule Log can discover a few twists to the classic dish at the Main Street Bakery and Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café. The “Fruity Yule Log” at Main Street has a base of Flourless Chocolate Cake underneath Raspberry Mousse, White Chocolate Mousse, and Casses Pate de Fruit. Pecos’ “Chocolate Yule Log” consists of a similar base, but with a swirl of Chocolate Mousse and Chocolate Ganache as well as a Chip, Dale, and Donald Duck White Chocolate Piece.
Pro-tip! The Chocolate Yule Log is closest to its classic model: the ribbed chocolate outside mimics bark and a nob of marshmallow and chocolate appears on top like a stump!
Sweet Treats From a Few Originals
Bring beauty to the holiday celebration with an Enchanted Christmas Belle Dessert from Gaston’s Tavern. This Flourless Chocolate Cake and White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse is topped with Yellow Glaze and a White Chocolate Belle Piece.
Get tiny like Tink with the Tinker Bell Dessert at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. This mini cake has layers of Chocolate Peppermint and Flourless Chocolate Cake, plus Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Mousses.
For an extra shine, order the Eggnog Custard Dessert from Storybook Treats. Eggnog Custard is topped with Spiced-Chocolate Cake, Meringue, and a Scrooge McDuck Chocolate Gold Coin.
Can’t Make it to the Party? No Problem!
If you aren’t able to score tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year, you can still satisfy your holiday sweet tooth. Many counter service locations across Magic Kingdom will be offering festively-themed treats during regular park hours!
The Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Bun at Main Street Bakery are super shareable, plus they have extra icing and a White Chocolate Snowflake!
The Main Street Plaza Ice-Cream Parlor and Storybook Treats are both offering Peppermint Cupcakes and Peppermint Ice-Cream Sundaes. Peppermint Mousse Filling sits inside a Red Velvet Cupcake that is topped with White Chocolate Peppermint Bark and Cream Cheese Frosting. Or keep it simple with a Mint Chocolate Chip Sundae and Candy Cane Sprinkles.
Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays
Already in full swing through December 30th, Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays is an ultimate global celebration of the season. Guests will experience holiday traditions from an array of cultures around the world through décor, stories, music… and of course, fantastic cuisine!
Load Up and Chow Down!
If you’re familiar with Food & Wine Fest’s Marketplace Booths, you will love the full-themed food booths called “Holiday Kitchens”!
However, you might want to come prepared because these Holiday Kitchens feature nearly entrée-sized offerings unlike the sample sizing found at Food & Wine.
It could get difficult to make another snack stop after indulging on Slow-Roasted Turkey from the American Holiday Table. Or try saving room for dessert after finishing the Latin-American-based Pastelon aka Soffrito-Marinated Beef from Feast of the Three Kings. (We also recommend pairing the Pastelon with the kid-approved Tropical Eggnog aka Coquito!)
Collect the Cookies
This challenge is for cookie connoisseurs only! As you explore Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays, watch out for select holiday cookies offered throughout the park. Once purchased, each cookie earns you a unique stamp in your Festival Passport.
After 5 stamps have been collected stop by Holiday Sweets and Treats for a final complimentary cookie and glass of milk!
To get more information on Epcot’s full menu for Festival of the Holidays click here.
Food-Inspired Seasonal Extras
It’s easy to get lost in all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Here are a few foodie-inspired favorites to find while exploring Walt Disney World!
Throughout the parks and within Disney Resorts guests will be amazed by the massive Gingerbread displays ranging from life-size cottages to huge carousels. Be sure to ask your resort about cookie decorating, as many spots are offering this kid-approved activity!
Hollywood Studios Options for Everyone
Enjoy more casual seasonal eats for lunch and dinner at Minnie’s Holiday Dine. This character-filled buffet at Hollywood & Vine features an opportunity to meet Mickey, Daisy and Donald, and Goofy through January 6th, 2019.
Re-imagine everyone’s favorite at Fairfax Fare on Sunset Boulevard. This year’s Hot Cocoa Flight features 3 “spiked” hot chocolates, and there’s even a new Strawberry Mint Crème dessert. The Hot Chocolate Martini is made with Vanilla Vodka. Then there’s the Black Cherry Bourbon Hot Chocolate made with Jim Bean Red Stag Black Cherry. And finally, finish off your flight with Bailey’s Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate made with Bailey’s Irish Cream.
Disney Springs Delivers
The Daily Poutine’s Holiday Turkey Poutine has become a super-favorite among Disney diners over the past few holidays. With a combo like turkey, gravy, French fries, cheddar curds, and cranberry relish for under $10, it’s easy to see why!
For a spin on traditional treats (or a round of wine slushies!) Amorette’s Patisserie is a can’t miss. This sweet shop offers Gingerbread Cookie Ornaments, Peppermint Chocolate Milkshakes, Spiced Plum Petite Cake, Pear Mousse, and more!
Keep it classic at Goofy’s Candy Company and Disney’s Candy Couldron; both feature an assortment of candy apples and holiday cake pops!
Where to Eat: Christmas Day
Nothing says vacation like an authentic Christmas Day dinner minus the prep and clean-up! We’ve put together this list of guest-voted top picks for best restaurants to reserve dinner at on December 25th…
Guest Favorites
Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Tree Tavern isn’t just a regular winner for Thanksgiving: it’s a hit on Christmas Day, too. Traditional holiday dinner fare like Roasted Turkey Breast, Herb Stuffing, Pot Roast, and House-made Macaroni and Cheese make this the best choice for a genuine celebration!
Located in Polynesian Village Resort, ‘Ohana’s family-style service is next in line. A popular preference for those hoping to be merry in a more tropical setting, ‘Ohana also offers entertainment for the kids and it’s outside Magic Kingdom (meaning you get to avoid much of the park’s commotion on one of its busiest days!)
The cozy atmosphere and extended drink menu earns Epcot’s Le Cellier Steakhouse a spot on several must-eat lists, and the holidays are no exception. Relish in the spirit of winter with Canadian-based steak and seafood choices by candlelight.
California Grill is your go-to if Christmas dinner must include an amazing view of Magic Kingdom’s spectacular fireworks show! Try something new from globally inspired seasonal options as you sit atop the Contemporary Resort overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon.
Last but not least is Artist Point at Magic Kingdom’s Wilderness Lodge. Pine trees outside combined with the restaurant’s Northwestern furnishings and robust dishes provide a true expression of the season. Signature ingredients include bison, rich cheeses, mussels, and venison.
Other Go-Tos
For a wider meal selection to choose from, here are a few more popular eateries we recommend on Christmas Day.
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort – Narcoossee’s, Citricos, Victoria and Albert’s
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Chef Mickey’s
- Magic Kingdom – Cinderella’s Royal Table, Crystal Palace, Ale and Compass
- Animal Kingdom – Saana, Jiko
- Epcot – Rose and Crown Dining Room, Biergarten
- Hollywood Studios – 50’s Prime Time Café
Where to Eat: New Year’s Eve
What better way to ring in the near year than with a night spent dining and celebrating at Disney?
*Because these meals are also considered special events, you will need to book them by calling 407-939-3463.
NYE Fun for the Whole Family
Flying Fish on Disney’s Boardwalk will feature a multi-course, prix-fixe menu at two seatings on December 31st. Dishes include Aged Cognac Lobster Bisque, Oak Grilled Cool Water Lobster, Chilean Sea Bass, and Wild Alaskan King Blue Crab. There is also the Cocoa Beach (Chocolate Hazelnut Cake with Warm Ganache) or the Florida Sunset (Vanilla Custard with Lemon Broth, Segmented Fruits, and White Chocolate) desserts.
5:00 to 6:30 p.m. Adults are $121.75 each, children are $63.52 each*
8:30 to 10:00 p.m. Adults are $153.51 each, children are $83.64 each*
*(Tax and gratuity included)
Monsieur Paul in Epcot’s France Pavilion will be open for several lunch and dinner seatings on December 31st. The menu will include Braised Ribs with Bordelaise Sauce, Roasted Halibut with Beurre Blanc Sauce, and Roast Turkey.
12:00 p.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m. All seatings are $110.81 per person*
*(Tax and gratuity included)
For something everyone in your party will love on NYE, check out Epcot’s World Showcase Pavilion. This distinctive dinner experience features a buffet with items like Seafood Mac and Cheese, Fried Chicken Breast with Corn Gravy, Oven Baked Cod, and Apple Cider Brined Pork with Roasted Apples and Cherries. After you finish eating, be sure to take a photo-op at one of the various unique vignettes rolled out just for the occasion!
4:00 to 9:30 p.m. Adults are $72.90 each, children are $ 44.38 each*
*(Tax and gratuity included!)
Fancier Fun
If you’re searching for a more upscale NYE, look no further than Napa Rose at Disneyland Resort. Book the first seating to experience a family-friendly dinner featuring Chef Andrew Sutton’s 4-course wine country feast. Or wait until the late-night festivities including a Napa-style 5-course tasting menu.
5:00 to 6:30 p.m. All guests are $140 each
Starting at 8:15 p.m. All guests are $300 each
Adults-Only Party
Also celebrating on Disney’s Boardwalk is Atlantic Dance Hall. This NYE bash will have views of the Epcot fireworks, a live DJ, party hats and horns plus a “light-bite” menu, two beverage vouchers, and a Champagne toast at midnight! Snacks include a Create-Your-Own Slider and Taco Bar and a Dip Station featuring veggies, chips and salsa, pretzel bites, assorted flatbreads, and more.
8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Guests must be 21 to attend $75 each
For every single Disney World restaurant holiday option in detail, click here.
Click here for a guide to helping you budget your time during the holidays at Disney.