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EPCOT Candlelight Processional 2026: Narrators, Dates, and Dining Packages

General By Kim Fidler October 10, 2026 Tags: Candlelight Processional, Dining packages, Epcot, Holidays, walt disney world No Comments

Disney just released the celebrity narrator lineup for the 2026 Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, and it’s a good one. Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, and Lacey Chabert are all stepping up to the podium for the first time, and they’re joining a roster of returning favorites like Whoopi Goldberg, Gary Sinise, and Neil Patrick Harris.

So if you’re mapping out a holiday trip to Walt Disney World this year, here’s everything that’s been confirmed so far, plus what you need to know about snagging a seat.

What Is the Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional is EPCOT’s retelling of the Christmas story, and it’s one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World. During each performance, a 51-piece orchestra pairs with the Voices of Liberty and a massed choir of more than 150 Disney Cast Members and community singers. Meanwhile, a celebrity narrator reads the story aloud as the choir builds into the shape of a giant, glowing “living Christmas tree” on stage.

The show runs during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase. Because the cast rotates throughout the run, many guests end up planning their whole trip around catching a specific narrator.

2026 Candlelight Processional Schedule

The Candlelight Processional runs alongside the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, which takes place November 27-December 30, 2026. Each night, performances happen three times: 4:45 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.

Disney has updated the celebrity narrator lineup for the 2026 Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, and two big names just joined the schedule. Benjamin Bratt and Josh Groban are both making their Candlelight Processional debuts this year. That makes five narrators brand new for 2026: Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, Benjamin Bratt, Josh Groban, and Lacey Chabert. Everyone else on the list has narrated before, so if you loved Neil Patrick Harris or Gary Sinise in past years, you’ll get another chance to see them this December.

There’s also one change to know about. Disney originally announced Auli’i Cravalho for November 27-28, but she is no longer on the lineup. As a result, opening weekend is back to To Be Announced. Disney lists all narrator dates as subject to change, so double-check the schedule closer to your trip.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Is the Candlelight Processional Free to Watch?

Yes. The Candlelight Processional is included with standard EPCOT admission at no extra cost. However, seating is first-come, first-served, and it fills up fast, particularly for the more popular narrators. As a result, guests often line up well over an hour ahead of showtime just to find a spot in the standby line.

How Do I Get a Guaranteed Seat?

The only way to lock in a seat ahead of time is to book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. Once you dine at a participating EPCOT restaurant before the show, you’ll receive a reserved seating badge for your chosen performance time. So while your seat is guaranteed, Disney still recommends arriving early for the best view within your reserved section.

When Can I Book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages open for booking on October 14, 2026. Because this event is so popular, packages tend to book up quickly once they go live, so it helps to have your preferred restaurant and showtime ready ahead of time.

Which Restaurants Offer Candlelight Processional Dining Packages?

In total, Disney has confirmed 16 participating locations for 2026, including Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, which returns to the lineup after a two-year hiatus. Here’s the full list:

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall Norway Pavilion
Biergarten Restaurant Germany Pavilion
Chefs de France France Pavilion
Coral Reef Restaurant The Seas Pavilion
Garden Grill Restaurant The Land Pavilion, breakfast, lunch, and dinner
La Crêperie de Paris France Pavilion
La Hacienda de San Angel Mexico Pavilion
Le Cellier Steakhouse Canada Pavilion
Nine Dragons Restaurant China Pavilion
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue American Adventure Pavilion, same-day packages only
Rose & Crown Dining Room United Kingdom Pavilion
Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya Japan Pavilion
Spice Road Table Morocco Pavilion
Teppan Edo Japan Pavilion
Tutto Italia Ristorante Italy Pavilion
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria Italy Pavilion

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Candlelight Processional Dining Package Prices

Most packages include an entree and dessert, or a full buffet where available, along with a beverage. However, Spice Road Table works a little differently, offering two small plates, a shared tagine, and a shared dessert platter instead of a standard entree. Because packages are sold per person, you’ll need a credit card to hold the reservation. The prices below are per person and exclude tax and gratuity.

Restaurant	Adult (10+)	Child (3-9)	Dining Plan
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall	$87	$59	2 Table-Service Meals
Biergarten Restaurant	$75	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Chefs de France	$89	$37	1 Table-Service Meal
Coral Reef Restaurant	$82	$34	1 Table-Service Meal
Garden Grill Restaurant (breakfast)	$73	$46	1 Table-Service Meal
Garden Grill Restaurant (lunch/dinner)	$86	$55	1 Table-Service Meal
La Crêperie de Paris	$59	$31	1 Table-Service Meal
La Hacienda de San Angel	$86	$37	1 Table-Service Meal
Le Cellier Steakhouse	$109	$44	2 Table-Service Meals
Nine Dragons Restaurant	$70	$30	1 Table-Service Meal
Regal Eagle Smokehouse (same-day only)	$43	$26	Not Eligible
Rose & Crown Dining Room	$68	$31	1 Table-Service Meal
Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya	$85	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Spice Road Table	$63	$26	1 Table-Service Meal
Teppan Edo	$89	$40	1 Table-Service Meal
Tutto Italia Ristorante	$85	$36	1 Table-Service Meal
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria	$71	$33	1 Table-Service Meal

How the 2026 Prices Compare

Overall, prices are up across the board from 2025, though the increases are generally in line with menu inflation rather than a dramatic jump. Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall carry the highest adult prices, and as a result, they’re also the only two locations that require two table-service credits on the Disney Dining Plan instead of one. Meanwhile, Regal Eagle Smokehouse has the lowest price of the group, but it doesn’t qualify for the Dining Plan at all. Still, because it’s the only same-day option, you can book it the day of your visit without a standing reservation.

Is a Candlelight Processional Dining Package Worth It?

Our take: if there’s a specific narrator on your must-see list, especially one of this year’s new additions, a dining package is worth the splurge. Standby seating can work out fine on a quieter weeknight, but for names like Josh Groban, Jason Kelce, or Neil Patrick Harris, expect the standby line to move fast and fill early. Biergarten is our favorite pick for the combination of value and holiday atmosphere, while Spice Road Table is a smart budget-friendly alternative. Since you’re pairing the show with a meal you’re already planning to eat, choosing a restaurant you’d pick anyway softens the extra cost and takes the guesswork out of your evening.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Candlelight Processional

1. Pick your narrator first, then build your night around them. If a specific voice matters to you, check the schedule before you book flights or park days, not after.

2. Book your dining package the moment reservations open. Since October 14 tends to be a busy booking day, the most convenient restaurants and showtimes go quickly.

3. Arrive early even with a guaranteed seat. A badge secures your spot in the theater, not your specific view, so getting there ahead of time still pays off.

4. Bring layers. Late November and December evenings in Central Florida can turn chilly, and because this is an outdoor show, there’s no indoor backup.

5. Consider a weeknight if you’re going standby. Otherwise, weekend crowds and headline narrators combine to make lines especially long on Fridays and Saturdays.

Brief History of the Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional tradition at Walt Disney World dates back to 1971, the same year the resort opened. It later moved to EPCOT’s America Gardens Theatre, and as a result, 2026 marks its 32nd year at that park specifically, alongside its 55th year overall at Walt Disney World Resort. Over more than five decades, the show has featured narrators ranging from Disney legends to Oscar winners, NFL stars, and beloved television hosts, and all of them have read the same timeless story to the sound of a live orchestra and choir.

Stay Updated with Mouse Dining

Narrator dates can shift, dining packages can sell out, and Disney still has opening weekend left to announce for the 2026 Candlelight Processional. So it helps to have a reliable way to track it all. If you want to stay on top of every update, along with alerts for hard-to-get EPCOT dining reservations, set up your free MouseDining dining alerts at mousedining.com.

Whichever narrator you catch, the Candlelight Processional remains one of the most moving traditions Walt Disney World has to offer. So mark your calendar for November 27-December 30, 2026, and start planning your EPCOT holiday evening now.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional runs during the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, from November 27 through December 30, 2026, with three showtimes each night.

Who are the new narrators for 2026?

Five narrators are making their Candlelight Processional debuts in 2026: Robin Roberts, Jason Kelce, Benjamin Bratt, Josh Groban, and Lacey Chabert.

Who is narrating the Candlelight Processional on opening weekend?

Disney has not announced the narrator for November 27-28 yet. Auli’i Cravalho was originally scheduled for those dates, but Disney has since removed her from the lineup. We’ll update this guide once Disney names a replacement.

Do I need a reservation to see the Candlelight Processional?

No, since standby seating is free with EPCOT admission. That said, a dining package is the only way to guarantee a seat.

How much does a Candlelight Processional Dining Package cost?

Prices for 2026 range from $43 per adult at Regal Eagle Smokehouse to $109 per adult at Le Cellier Steakhouse, and most restaurants fall somewhere in the $60 to $90 range. Because child pricing applies to ages 3 to 9, and all prices exclude tax and gratuity, it’s worth budgeting a little extra on top.

What’s included in a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Most packages include a meal, typically an entree and dessert, or a full buffet where available, along with a beverage, plus a guaranteed seat at one of the same-day Candlelight Processional performances. However, Spice Road Table is the exception, since it offers two small plates and a shared dessert instead of a standard entree.

Can I use the Disney Dining Plan for a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Yes, at most locations. Nearly every restaurant on the list accepts one table-service credit, while Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall require two instead. Regal Eagle Smokehouse, on the other hand, isn’t eligible for the Dining Plan at all.

Is there a same-day Candlelight Processional Dining Package option?

Yes. Regal Eagle Smokehouse is the only restaurant that offers a same-day package, so it’s a good backup option if you didn’t plan ahead or the other restaurants are already booked for your preferred showtime.

Which restaurant is the best value for a Candlelight Processional Dining Package?

Biergarten Restaurant offers a strong mix of price and holiday atmosphere thanks to its buffet-style German fare, while Spice Road Table is one of the more affordable options if you’re watching your budget. On the other hand, Le Cellier Steakhouse and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall sit at the higher end, but since both use two Dining Plan credits, they can be a better fit if you’re already on the plan.

How long is the Candlelight Processional?

The performance runs about 30 minutes. Even so, guests should plan extra time for arrival and seating, especially if they’re waiting in the standby line.

Disneyland Holiday Character Dining 2026 Full Guide

News By Kim Fidler September 28, 2026 Tags: A Christmas Fantasy Parade Dining Package, Character Dining, Daisy's Holiday Pajama Party, Disneyland, Goofy's Kitchen, Goofy's Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays, Holidays, Mickey's Christmas Carol Feast No Comments

Holiday character dining is coming back to the Disneyland Resort, and you have three festive meals to choose from this year. Each one has its own hosts, mood, menu and time of day.

We’ve put everything Disney has released about Disneyland holiday character dining in one place, including dining dates, booking dates, and a side-by-side comparison so you can pick the right meal for your group. You’ll also find info about the Christmas Fantasy Parade dining package, which is not character dining, but is a favorite holiday experience.

What Is Holiday Character Dining at Disneyland?

Holiday character dining is a set of seasonal, all-you-care-to-enjoy buffets at two Disneyland Resort hotels. Disney characters stop by your table in festive outfits while you eat. As a result, you get photos and hugs without standing in a meet-and-greet line.

These meals are part of Holidays at the Disneyland Resort, which runs November 13, 2026-January 6, 2027. However, character dining runs on a slightly shorter window. It starts three days after the season opens and wraps up three days before it ends.

All three meals take place inside resort hotels, so you don’t need a theme park ticket to go. They make a perfect first or last day activity if you don’t have a park ticket for the day.

2026 Holiday Character Dining Lineup

October 1, 2026: Reservations open for all three holiday character meals.

November 16, 2026-January 3, 2027: Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!, Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party, and Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast are all served.

Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!

Location: Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, brunch, and dinner

Goofy and his pals dress up in holiday outfits for a festive buffet with seasonal dishes. Disney’s promo photo for this meal shows Goofy alongside Minnie Mouse, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and Pluto, although the character lineup can change.

Seasonal meals at Goofy’s Kitchen come with complimentary Disney PhotoPass digital downloads and a themed keepsake button. Also, keep in mind that Goofy’s Kitchen automatically adds an 18% gratuity to every party, no matter the size.

Photo Credit: Disney

Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party

Location: Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Meals: Breakfast and brunch

Daisy Duck hosts a cozy holiday pajama party, and Disney encourages you to show up in your favorite sleepwear. The buffet features seasonal breakfast and brunch dishes in the Craftsman-style dining room.

Daisy will be joined by Donald, Pluto, Chip, and Dale, all dressed in holiday pajamas.

Photo Credit: Disney

Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast

Location: Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Meals: Dinner

This dinner buffet takes its theme from the classic 1983 short film Mickey’s Christmas Carol. Disney confirms that Mickey Mouse and Scrooge McDuck host, along with other Disney friends.

From Disney’s official photoshoot, Mickey appears as Bob Cratchit and Goofy appears as Jacob Marley. Minnie Mouse and Clarabelle Cow round out the lineup.

Photo Credit: Disney

Holiday Character Dining Compared: Which Meal Is Right for You?

Choose Goofy’s Kitchen If You Need Flexibility

Goofy’s Kitchen is the only holiday character meal with breakfast, brunch, and dinner. That means it’s the easiest one to fit around park reservations, arrival times, and nap schedules. The atmosphere is playful and loud, so it works well for kids who love a little chaos.

The included PhotoPass downloads also add value if your group plans to take a lot of character photos.

Choose Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party If You Have Little Ones

This is the coziest option on the list, and it’s a natural fit for families with young children. Kids can roll out of bed, stay in their pajamas, and meet characters before the day gets busy.

It’s also a smart pick if you’re visiting Disney California Adventure Park that day. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa has its own entrance into the park, so you can eat and then head straight in. Or, if it’s your last day of vacation and you don’t have a park ticket, it’s a perfect way to end your trip

Choose Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast If You Love Classic Disney

If Mickey’s Christmas Carol is part of your family’s holiday tradition, this dinner is the one to book. It’s also one of the few places you can meet Scrooge McDuck at the resort this season.

The dinner time slot also works well for adults and couples. You can wind down after a park day with a sit-down meal instead of fighting evening crowds. It also would be the perfect way to kick off a holiday vacation if you don’t have a park ticket for the first day. Make sure you take some time to explore the lobby where you’ll see the grand tree and gingerbread house.

Photo Credit: Disney

When Do Holiday Character Dining Reservations Open?

Reservations for all three holiday character meals open on October 1, 2026. You can book on the Disneyland website or the Disneyland app.

Disneyland dining reservations generally open up to 60 days before your visit. So, if your date falls in December, check the app to confirm when your specific date becomes bookable. These meals are popular during the holidays, so plan to book as soon as your date opens. And of course, don’t forget to set a MouseDining alert if you don’t get your first choice.

What If Your Holiday Character Dining Date Is Full?

Don’t give up on a sold-out date. Plans change all the time, and reservations open back up when other guests cancel. Because both hotel restaurants charge a per-person fee for no-shows, many guests cancel before the deadline, which frees up tables.

The easiest way to catch those openings is to set a MouseDining reservation alert. We’ll notify you when a table opens for the meal, date, and party size you want. Then you can grab it before someone else does.

Do You Need a Park Ticket for Holiday Character Dining?

No. Goofy’s Kitchen is inside the Disneyland Hotel, and Storytellers Cafe is inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. You don’t need a theme park ticket or a park reservation for either one.

For that reason, these meals work well on arrival day, departure day, or a rest day between park visits.

How Much Does Holiday Character Dining Cost?

Disney sets holiday character dining prices separately from regular menus, and prices can change. For the most current pricing, check the Disneyland app or the restaurant pages on the Disneyland website before you book.

Remember that Goofy’s Kitchen adds an automatic 18% gratuity for all parties. Also, both restaurants require a credit card to hold your reservation and charge a per-person fee if you don’t show up or cancel late.

Our take: If you only have room for one holiday meal, match it to your schedule first. Families with young kids will get the most out of Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party. Fans who grew up with Mickey’s Christmas Carol should book the dinner. If your plans are still loose, Goofy’s Kitchen gives you the most options and some of the best photo value.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Holiday Character Dining

1. Be ready to book on October 1. Log in to the Disneyland app ahead of time and make sure your payment details are saved so you can move quickly.

2. Set MouseDining alerts for your top choice, even if you already booked a backup. That way, you’ll hear about openings for the meal you really want.

3. Wear the pajamas. Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party is built for it, and matching family PJs make for great photos.

4. Pair a Storytellers Cafe breakfast with a Disney California Adventure Park day. Then you can walk from your table to the park entrance at the hotel.

5. Check your cancellation deadline in your confirmation email. That way, you won’t get hit with a no-show fee if your plans change.

6. Double-check hours around Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. Hotel restaurants sometimes adjust menus and hours on major holidays.

Bonus: A Christmas Fantasy Parade Dining Package

Please note: this package is NOT character dining and characters do not visit tables during the Plaza Inn dining package. Instead, you’ll see Mickey, Minnie, and other characters in the parade itself. If you want Character Dining at the Plaza Inn, Minnie & Friends Breakfast in the Park is available in the morning, but is NOT holiday themed.

The A Christmas Fantasy Parade Dining Package pairs a lunch at Plaza Inn in Disneyland Park with reserved viewing for A Christmas Fantasy Parade. Here’s what Disney has confirmed:

Dates: November 13-December 30, 2026
Booking opens: October 8, 2026
Blockout dates: November 25, 26, 29, and 30, and December 1-6, 24, and 25
Price: $61 per adult and $34 per child ages 3-9, plus tax (gratuity isn’t included or required)
Adult menu: Choice of chicken, meatloaf, penne pasta, or salmon, plus a side salad, holiday dessert, and a fountain drink or bottled water
Kids’ menu: Choice of chicken tenders or pasta marinara, plus carrots, applesauce, holiday dessert, and water or low-fat milk
Parade viewing: A voucher for the day’s second parade performance

Plant-based options are available on both menus. However, the reserved viewing area is mostly standing room or ground seating, so plan accordingly.

Unlike the hotel character meals, this package requires a valid Disneyland Park ticket and a park reservation for the same day. Also, every person in your party needs their own package to get a viewing voucher. Children ages 2 and younger will not need either.

Stay Updated with Mouse Dining

Holiday character dining at Disneyland starts November 16, 2026, and reservations open October 1. These meals fill up fast every year, so it pays to have a plan.

If your date is already booked, set a MouseDining reservation alert and let us watch for openings for you. We’ll let you know the moment a table opens up, so you can spend less time refreshing the app and more time planning your holiday trip.

Disney World Holidays 2026: Changes, Confirmed Parties, and Events

News, Special Events By Kim Fidler June 26, 2026 Tags: Disney's Hollywood Studios, Holidays, Jollywood Nights, Magic Kingdom, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Walt Disney World Holidays No Comments

Disney World Holidays 2026: Changes, Confirmed Parties, and Events

The holidays at Walt Disney World Resort 2026 are now mapped out. Disney confirmed the full season on June 24, 2026, including two notable changes, both after-hours parties, and the festive offerings included with park admission. Here is everything confirmed so far, from the retired Grand Floridian gingerbread house to the expanded Christmas party dates.

What is confirmed for Disney World holidays 2026?

The 2026 holiday season at Walt Disney World runs November 13, 2026 – January 6, 2027. During that stretch, all four parks, the resort hotels, and Disney Springs get seasonal decorations, entertainment, and special food and drink.

Two separately ticketed parties headline the season. Plenty of seasonal fun also comes included with regular park admission. First, here are the changes you need to know about before you plan.

The Grand Floridian gingerbread house is retired for good

Disney has permanently retired the life-size gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. It will not return for the 2026 season or any future year.

The display debuted in 1999 and became one of the most-visited holiday stops at Walt Disney World. It stood in the Grand Lobby and took the culinary team months to plan and build each year. The house also skipped 2025 because of the lobby remodel that brought in The Perch lobby bar.

In its place, the Grand Floridian culinary team will create smaller gingerbread displays around the resort. Disney has not released details on those displays yet. Expect more information closer to the start of the season.

Cinderella Castle Dream Lights will not return

The Cinderella Castle Dream Lights will not light up Magic Kingdom for the 2026 holidays. Many guests asked Disney to bring back the icicle effect, but it stays retired this year. Instead, Disney will use projection effects on the castle for its nighttime holiday look.

Which gingerbread displays are still happening?

The retirement applies only to the Grand Floridian. Disney expects its other resort gingerbread traditions to continue, including these favorites:

Gingerbread carousel at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Gingerbread Cinderella Castle display at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Gingerbread house at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Gingerbread animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Chocolate cabin at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Treat this list as expected rather than final. Disney usually confirms its gingerbread lineup, start dates, menus, and merchandise in late October or early November.

After-hours holiday parties confirmed for 2026

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Two separately ticketed parties return for the 2026 season. Both need a special ticket on top of, or in place of, regular park admission. Tickets go on sale July 9 for Disney resort hotel guests and July 16 for the general public.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns to Magic Kingdom on 25 select nights, November 8 – December 22, 2026. The party runs 7 PM – 12 AM, and you can enter the park as early as 4 PM.

Confirmed party nights:

November 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 24, 25, 27, 29
December 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22

Highlights include Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade with its marching toy soldiers, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, the Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration castle stage show, snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A., holiday ride overlays, and complimentary cookies and cocoa.

Prices vary by night. See Disney or the My Disney Experience app for current ticket pricing.

See our full Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2026 guide for every party night, the entertainment lineup, and character greetings.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney Jollywood Nights

Disney Jollywood Nights returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for its largest season yet. The event runs 15 nights, November 7 – January 5, 2027, and extends into January for the first time.

Confirmed party nights:

November 7, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28
December 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 23
January 3, 5, 2027

This glitz-and-glamour party leans into vintage Hollywood. Confirmed entertainment includes the Jingle Bell, Jingle Bam! fireworks, the Glisten! ice show, Disney Holidays in Hollywood hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, and a Nightmare Before Christmas sing-along. Themed party zones return, including the Tip Top Club near Tower of Terror. Special character greetings include Duffy, Santa Stitch, and Disney Afternoon characters.

Prices vary by night. See Disney for current ticket pricing. The limited-time food lineup has not been released yet.

See our full Disney Jollywood Nights 2026 guide for every party night, the shows, and the character lineup.

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays returns November 27 – December 30, 2026, included with park admission. The festival celebrates seasonal traditions from around the world across World Showcase. See our full EPCOT Festival of the Holidays 2026 guide for the Candlelight Processional, Holiday Kitchens, and more.

Confirmed offerings include:

Candlelight Processional (the Nativity story told by a celebrity narrator with a live orchestra and mass choir)
Holiday Storytellers around World Showcase
Holiday Kitchens food booths
Holiday Cookie Stroll
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
Voices of Liberty Dickens Carolers
Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition scavenger hunt
Gingerbread Spaceship Earth display and countdown
Glimmering Greenhouses overlay on Living with the Land

Disney will announce the Candlelight Processional narrator list and the Holiday Kitchens menus at a later date. We will update this guide once those drop.

Holiday offerings included with park admission

You can skip the after-hours parties and still find plenty of seasonal fun across the resort. Here is what Disney confirmed at each park.

Magic Kingdom

Two favorites return with regular admission. The Jingle Cruise gives the Jungle Cruise a madcap holiday makeover. A Frozen Holiday Surprise brings a stage show and projection mapping to Cinderella Castle. On non-party nights, the Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away parade continues to run.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Sunset Seasons Greetings returns to Sunset Boulevard with snow flurries and projection mapping on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Festive decor and seasonal character appearances round out the park.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The Merry Menagerie returns to Discovery Island with artisan-crafted animal puppets. After dark, the Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition lights up with seasonal projections and music. Mickey and Minnie greet guests in holiday outfits at Adventurers Outpost. Artist Rob Kaz will appear at Island Mercantile from November 1 – November 22.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Holidays at Disney Springs

Disney Springs needs no ticket or park admission, and it returns as a festive shopping and entertainment stop. Confirmed offerings include the Christmas Tree Stroll with trees inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars, nightly snowfall in Town Center, live music at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage, and Santa appearances. Seasonal menus return at Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar.

Holiday room and package offers for 2026

Disney confirmed several ways to save on a holiday stay with the Disney Resorts Collection. Here are the current offers and the dates they cover.

Disney+ Perks members: save on select packages

Disney+ Perks members save up to 25% on rooms and get free Park Hopper benefits added to their ticket. The deal applies when you buy a 4-night, 4-day room-and-ticket package at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels. It covers the holiday season plus select fall dates. Valid for stays most nights:

September 25 – October 8, 2026
October 19 – 31, 2026
November 15 – 28, 2026
December 13 – 24, 2026

Get the full offer details from your travel agent.

Save up to 20% on rooms

Save up to 20% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season. Valid for stays:

Most Sunday to Thursday nights, October 4 – November 19, 2026
Most nights including weekends, November 22 – December 24, 2026

Your travel agent can provide the full offer details and availability.

Florida residents: save up to 25% on rooms

Florida residents save up to 25% on select rooms with the Disney Resorts Collection this holiday season. Valid for stays select nights from October 19 – December 24, 2026.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

What this means for your holiday trip

Book your parties early. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights both sell out dates most years, so mark July 9 and July 16 on your calendar. If a stop at the Grand Floridian gingerbread house was on your list, swap it for the Beach Club carousel or the Contemporary castle display this year.

For exact ticket pricing on a given night, check the My Disney Experience app, since party prices vary by date.

Related holiday guides

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently asked questions

When is the 2026 Disney World holiday season?
The season runs November 13, 2026 – January 6, 2027.

What are the 2026 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates?
The party runs 25 select nights, November 8 – December 22, 2026, from 7 PM to 12 AM.

What are the 2026 Disney Jollywood Nights dates?
Jollywood Nights runs 15 nights, November 7 – January 5, 2027, and extends into January for the first time.

When do holiday party tickets go on sale?
Tickets go on sale July 9 for Disney resort hotel guests and July 16 for the general public.

What holiday offerings are included with park admission?
Plenty, including the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, the Jingle Cruise and A Frozen Holiday Surprise at Magic Kingdom, Sunset Seasons Greetings at Hollywood Studios, and the Merry Menagerie at Animal Kingdom.

Are there discounts for the 2026 Disney World holidays?
Yes. Disney confirmed room and package offers, including a Disney+ Perks package deal, a save-up-to-20% room offer, and a Florida resident room offer. See the offer details linked above.

Is the Grand Floridian gingerbread house coming back?
No. Disney has permanently retired it. Smaller gingerbread displays will appear around the resort instead.

Disney Jollywood Nights 2026: Dates, Tickets, and Entertainment

News By Kim Fidler June 26, 2026 Tags: Disney's Hollywood Studios, Holidays, Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort, Jollywood Nights No Comments

Disney Jollywood Nights 2026: Dates, Tickets, and Entertainment

Disney Jollywood Nights 2026 returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for its largest season yet, running 15 nights from November 7 – January 5, 2027. For the first time, the after-hours holiday party extends into January. Here is everything Disney has confirmed, from the party dates to the shows and characters.

What is Disney Jollywood Nights?

Disney Jollywood Nights is a separately ticketed holiday party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It blends old Hollywood glamour with festive entertainment, specialty food and drink, exclusive shows, and shorter waits at popular rides. The event leans into a stylish, grown-up holiday vibe, so dress in your dapper best.

Disney Jollywood Nights 2026 dates

The party runs 15 select nights, November 7 – January 5, 2027. You can enter the park as early as 5:30 PM, and the event runs from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM.

November 7, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28
December 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 23
January 3, 5, 2027

The January 3 and January 5 dates mark the first time Jollywood Nights has ever run past New Year’s.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

When do tickets go on sale?

Tickets go on sale in two windows. Guests at select Disney Resort hotels, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and Shades of Green can buy starting July 9, 2026. Tickets open to the general public on July 16, 2026. Discounts are available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members.

This is a limited-capacity event, so buy well ahead of your travel dates. For current pricing, see Disney or the My Disney Experience app.

Confirmed shows for 2026

Disney has confirmed a full slate of returning entertainment:

Disney Holidays in Hollywood (a musical stage show at the Theater of the Stars hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, with Mickey, Minnie, Belle, and Tiana)
Glisten! (a skating show in front of the Chinese Theater, set to holiday tunes with projections and Art Deco style)
Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! (the nighttime spectacular with fireworks, lasers, and projections, starring Wayne and Lanny from Prep and Landing)
What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along (at the Hyperion Theater, with favorites like “What’s This?” and “Sally’s Song”)

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Festive lounges and dance parties

Jollywood Nights also fills the park with themed party zones:

The Twilight Soiree at the Tip Top Club (a 1930s swing celebration with live holiday music in the Hollywood Tower Hotel courtyard)
Pixar Disco (a dance party at Pixar Place hosted by Edna Mode, Frozone, Joy, and Mike Wazowski)
Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby (an adult-oriented option with live music and a holiday menu, with advance reservations recommended)
Snowfall on Hollywood Boulevard

Reservation details for Jazzy Holidays are still to come.

Character greetings

Disney confirmed a wide character lineup, with more to be added. Highlights include Stitch dressed as Santa, Chewbacca celebrating Life Day, and The Mandalorian with Grogu. The roster also features Phineas and Ferb, Max Goof as Powerline, Chip and Dale, Baloo and King Louie, Lotso, Partysaurus Rex, Bing Bong, Duffy, Scrooge McDuck, Donald and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto, and Mickey and Minnie.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Attractions open during the party

Nine attractions run during Jollywood Nights with lower waits, including Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Star Tours, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Toy Story Mania. Availability can change, and admission does not guarantee access to any ride.

Disney has not released the full food, beverage, and merchandise lineup yet. Expect those details closer to the season.

Save on your holiday stay. Disney has holiday room and package discounts for the 2026 season, including a Disney+ Perks package offer and room savings on select dates. See the full list in our 2026 Disney World holidays guide, then call your travel agent to check dates and book your trip.

Rock N Roller Coaster Jollywood Nights Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

What this means for MouseDining readers

One planning note matters here. The first party on November 7 falls before the official holiday season begins on November 13, so the daily holiday entertainment included with admission will not be running yet. If you want the full park-wide holiday feel, aim for a later date. If you plan a resort meal around your party, book it early.

Related holiday guides

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Frequently asked questions

What are the 2026 Disney Jollywood Nights dates?
The party runs 15 select nights, November 7 – January 5, 2027, from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM.

When do tickets go on sale?
July 9, 2026 for select Disney Resort hotel guests, and July 16, 2026 for the general public.

What time can I enter the park?
You can enter Disney’s Hollywood Studios as early as 5:30 PM, with the party starting at 7:30 PM.

Is Jollywood Nights good for adults?
Yes. The event has a stylish, grown-up tone, with lounges like the Tip Top Club and Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby, though families are welcome too.