Behind The Scenes at Disney as the Happiest Place on Earth Prepares for the Holidays

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Preparation for the holidays is already in high gear at Walt Disney World Resort as The Most Magical Place On Earth gets ready to celebrate “the most wonderful time of year.” We share 14 pictures as the Disney team puts together the final touches of the preliminaries that culminate in the fall. Many Cast Members spend months, sometimes an entire year, getting ready to spread seasonal cheer.

1. The Holiday Preparations Weave Festive Magic

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

It takes more than Santa’s elves to transform the four theme parks, resort hotels, Disney Springs and other locations across the Walt Disney World Resort with dazzling decor. That incredible feat is the work of Holiday Services.

2. Treats and Snacks for the Season

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

The festival culinary team has worked hard for nearly a year, dreaming up the menu and testing new recipes.  

3. More than 15 Holiday Kitchens Celebrate the Diversity of Holiday Traditions

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

With comfort foods that inspire warm memories, done in a way that only Disney knows how.

4. But on a Scale We Can Only Imagine

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

Thorough testing is imperative before massive production begins. How massive?

5. Around 250,000 Cookies Are Baked in Five Weeks

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

The culinary team has historically bakes over 250,000 cookies in just five weeks for the event’s signature Holiday Cookie Stroll.

6. Imagineers Weaving Magic

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

This team of talented designers, decorators and other professionals prepare more than 600 trees and 1,700 wreaths and hang nearly nine miles of garland each year.

7. This is a Year Long Project in the Making

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

But the creativity never ends as soon as one holiday season wraps up, the Holiday Services team begins preparing for the next.

8. And the Magic They Bring is Priceless

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

Whether creating new items or ensuring existing decor remains merry and bright, these talented specialists ensure that the entire resort sparkles.

9. But Its All Done As We Sleep

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

This year, Disney will bring several “firsts” to the festival. Luminous the Sympony of Us is an all-new fireworks-and-laser spectacular which debuted December 5, 2023.

10. Friends From Arendelle Have Taken Over The Castle

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

At Magic Kingdom Park, “Frozen” friends from Arendelle have conjured up something remarkable for the holidays. The new Frozen Holiday Surprise brings together Olaf and more than 100 of his Snowgie siblings who attempt to add festive decor to Cinderella Castle.

11. Frozen Fans Are in For A Treat

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

With Anna and Kristoff at her side, Queen Elsa adds sparkling finishing touches, transforming the castle into a shimmering crystallized palace – a look that will remain throughout each evening. Bringing this new spectacle to life is no small feat, as lighting designers, video technicians, composers and a full orchestra worked together to create this enchanting new entertainment experience.

12. The Magic is All Around

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

Families and kids of all ages can also enjoy Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Now in its 40th year, this specially ticketed event has become a holiday tradition for many.

13. With an Exclusive Parade Fireworks and Complimentary Sweet Treats

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

Featuring a dazzling parade, fireworks, complimentary sweet treats and so much more, it’s warm-hearted, family-friendly fun at Magic Kingdom on 25 select nights Nov. 9-Dec. 22.

14. A Look At Main Street USA in All Its Glory

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

And oh, the dream to stand here alone and take in the glorious view. But then the magic is also seeing the faces of those around in wonder and the magic and joy the Imagineers weave.

Also See Our Guide To Princess Dining At Disney World

Guide To Princess Dining At Disney World, Photo Credit Sarah Christie
Photo Credit: Sarah Christie.

Where you can dine with your favourite Disney Princesses and enjoy Princess Dining At Disney World during your next vacation.

Top Places to Find Princesses at Walt Disney World

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Company.

Do You Need A Stroller At Disney

Photo Credit: Karen Beddow.

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Sarah Christie is a craft, food, cruise, and family travel blogger Extraordinary Chaos, Cruising For All and Mini Travellers. Known for her unique perspective and ability to find beauty in chaos, Sarah designs and creates craft projects as well as creating recipes for people who want to cook from scratch the easy way. Whilst also exploring family travel and how to navigate it.

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