Visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays is magical, but did you know you can enjoy plenty of festive fun without spending every day inside the theme parks? From beautifully decorated Disney resorts to holiday shopping and seasonal treats at Disney Springs, there are so many ways to soak up the Christmas spirit while taking a break from the rides and crowds.
Whether you're planning a resort-hopping day, looking for a fun evening activity, or hoping to add a little extra magic to your vacation without purchasing another park ticket, here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate the holidays around Walt Disney World!
Go Resort Hopping to See the Holiday Decorations
One of the best ways to experience the holidays at Walt Disney World is by visiting the Disney Resort hotels. Each resort has its own personality, and the seasonal decorations make them even more special.
Here are a few resorts worth adding to your holiday itinerary:
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Known for its elegant Victorian style, the Grand Floridian is a beautiful place to admire classic holiday décor. In 2026, guests can look forward to seasonal decorations and miniature gingerbread displays throughout the resort.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: With its rustic architecture, towering trees, and cozy atmosphere, Wilderness Lodge feels like a woodland Christmas retreat. It’s a great stop if you're looking for a more peaceful holiday atmosphere.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Enjoy modern holiday décor and a convenient location near Magic Kingdom. It’s also an easy stop to combine with a monorail ride around the resort area.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort: This resort is often a favorite for holiday décor and its festive atmosphere. It can also be paired with a stroll around Disney’s BoardWalk.
Keep in mind that resort decorations and displays can vary from year to year. You can explore the resorts using Disney transportation where available, but transportation access and resort parking policies may vary. If you're driving, check current parking rules before heading out.
Explore the Holidays at Disney Springs
Disney Springs is another must-visit during the holiday season! This shopping, dining, and entertainment district gets a festive makeover, making it a fun place to spend an afternoon or evening.
Learn more about the Holidays at Disney Springs here: https://www.disneysprings.com/holidays-at-disney-springs/
One of the biggest highlights is the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, presented by AdventHealth. This seasonal experience features elaborately decorated Christmas trees inspired by Disney characters and stories, scattered throughout Disney Springs. It’s a fun activity for families and a great way to discover different corners of the shopping district.
You can also visit Disney’s Days of Christmas, a year-round Christmas store filled with ornaments, stockings, and Disney-themed holiday decorations. Add in seasonal treats, festive merchandise, holiday entertainment, and the possibility of meeting Santa, and you have a wonderful way to celebrate without entering a theme park. Seasonal offerings for 2026 may vary, so check Disney’s official holiday updates closer to your visit.
Enjoy Festive Food, Drinks & Holiday Shopping
Holiday treats are a big part of the fun! Disney Springs often features seasonal food and beverages at select locations, making it a great place to try something special during your visit. Keep an eye out for holiday-inspired desserts, festive drinks, and limited-time menu items.
You can also make a reservation at one of Disney Springs’ many restaurants for a festive meal. Whether you're in the mood for a sit-down dinner, a quick bite, or a sweet treat, there are options for a variety of tastes and budgets.
If you love holiday shopping, this is also a great opportunity to browse World of Disney, pick up gifts, or find a special ornament to remember your trip.
Make Time for Other Holiday Fun
Beyond resort hopping and Disney Springs, consider building in time for some of the other seasonal experiences around Walt Disney World. Depending on your travel dates and what's available, you might enjoy a festive resort meal, seasonal entertainment, or a relaxing evening exploring a resort's grounds and dining options.
You can also check out the activities offered at your own resort. Disney Resort hotels may feature seasonal décor, holiday treats, and special entertainment or character appearances. Availability varies, so check the resort's activity schedule during your stay.
The key is to leave a little room in your itinerary. You don't need to plan every minute to enjoy the holiday atmosphere!
Let People Mover Travel Help Plan Your Holiday Vacation
A Walt Disney World holiday vacation doesn't have to mean spending every day in the parks. Sometimes, the most memorable moments come from slowing down, admiring the decorations, enjoying a festive meal, and experiencing the little details that make the season special.
Whether you're planning a resort-hopping adventure, a shopping day at Disney Springs, or a mix of theme park and non-park activities, our team can help you create a vacation that fits your family, budget, and travel style.
Our travel advisors are here before, during, and after your trip, and our planning services come at no additional cost to you. Reach out to your People Mover Travel advisor to start planning a holiday vacation filled with Disney magic!