The holiday season is in full swing at Walt Disney World, and EPCOT is getting into the festive spirit with its International Festival of the Holidays. Running from November 29 through December 30, 2024, this year’s celebration promises to be more magical than ever with seven exciting new experiences that will delight visitors of all ages. Let’s unwrap these holiday surprises and see what EPCOT has in store for us!
A Grand and Miraculous Gingerbread Display
Prepare to be amazed by an 8-foot-tall gingerbread Spaceship Earth! This impressive creation, a collaboration between EPCOT’s Festival Team, Walt Disney Imagineering, and the EPCOT Pastry team, is a sight to behold. Made up of hundreds of handcrafted gingerbread triangles, this sweet masterpiece will be on display inside CommuniCore Hall throughout the festival. But wait, there’s more! Just like its iconic counterpart, this gingerbread version will light up and dance to music periodically throughout the day. It’s a truly grand and miraculous spectacle that you won’t want to miss!
Deck the CommuniCore Hall
Step into a winter wonderland as you explore the beautifully decorated CommuniCore Hall. The seasonal décor draws inspiration from EPCOT’s unique design, creating a festive atmosphere that’s distinctly Disney. Don’t miss the enchanting Glittering Grove presented by Balsam Hill, where twinkling trees bring a touch of holiday magic to the space. It’s the perfect backdrop for your holiday photos!
Many Merry Menus
Foodies, rejoice! Two new Holiday Kitchens are making their debut at CommuniCore Hall this year. First up is the whimsically named Experimental Prototype Cookies of Tomorrow, serving up – you guessed it – cookies! But these aren’t just any cookies. You can even purchase a kit to decorate your own gingerbread triangles, inspired by the Spaceship Earth display.
For those craving a taste of nostalgia, don’t miss Favorites of Festivals Past, located just outside CommuniCore Hall. This kitchen brings back beloved dishes from previous years, giving you a chance to relive your favorite festival memories through food.
Do You Wanna Build a Snowflake?
Channel your inner Elsa at CommuniCore Plaza with a new, complimentary snowflake decorating activity. It’s perfect for kids of all ages and a great way to take a break between sampling holiday treats and catching performances. Who knows? You might just create a flurry of fun!
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
Get ready to groove to some holiday tunes! JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season has moved to a new location at CommuniCore Plaza. Their spirited performances are sure to get you in the holiday mood as you create your snowflake masterpieces.
Seasonal Scents
Treat your senses to a unique experience at the Festive Fragrances display presented by Scentsy. Located between the Imagination! pavilion and World Showcase, this new addition invites you to stroll through a snow globe garden inspired by Scentsy’s seasonal aromas. It’s a truly immersive way to experience the scents of the season!
Olaf’s Holiday Traditions Expedition Scavenger Hunt
Join everyone’s favorite snowman on a festive adventure around World Showcase! Purchase your map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations and help Olaf discover holiday traditions in each pavilion. Complete the quest and redeem your map for a special festival holiday keepsake. It’s a fun way to explore the park and learn about holiday customs from around the world.
Tips for Attending EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
- Arrive early: Take advantage of rope drop or Early Entry if you’re eligible. Knock out popular rides before the festival activities begin.
- Plan your route: With so many Holiday Storytellers and food booths to experience, planning your route can help you make the most of your day.
- Save room for treats: Don’t fill up too early! The Holiday Cookie Stroll is a must-do for sweet tooths.
- Take breaks: Enjoy slower-paced attractions like Living with the Land: Merry and Bright Nights to rest between festival activities.
- Stay late: Many Holiday Kitchens are open until park close, so you can grab last-minute snacks before finding a spot for the nighttime spectacular.
- Don’t miss the Candlelight Processional: This moving retelling of the Christmas story with a celebrity narrator is a highlight of the festival.
- Bring your camera: With so many festive photo opportunities, you’ll want to capture every magical moment!
Final Thoughts
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is a celebration of global traditions, mouthwatering cuisine, and Disney magic. From the awe-inspiring gingerbread Spaceship Earth to the aromatic snow globe garden, these seven new experiences add an extra sprinkle of pixie dust to an already enchanting event.
Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or a first-time visitor, these additions are sure to make your holiday season at EPCOT truly unforgettable. So grab your Santa hat, bring your appetite, and get ready for a jolly good time at the most magical place on Earth!
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