Walt Disney World resort guests who are looking to celebrate the holidays have no shortage of choices. In addition to exciting festivities at the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this year Epcot is offering its own brand of Yuletide cheer.
Described as a holiday festival like no other, Epcot’s World Showcase will be transformed into the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays from November 19-December 30. Offering live music, seasonal food and beverage offerings, and costumed performers sharing traditions from countries all throughout World Showcase, this is a must-do for all Disney fans.
Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Shows and Events
Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree
Chip & Dale are looking for ornaments to put on their Christmas tree and they need our help! To get started, guests purchase a map from select merchandise locations including Pin Central, Disney Traders, and World Traveler at International Gateway (maps are $6.99 plus tax).
As guests travel around World Showcase they should be on the lookout for Chip & Dale, who are busy gathering ornaments, and when spotted, add the corresponding ornament sticker to their map. When a map is completed, it can be taken to Disney Traders and exchanged for a festive surprise!
JOYFUL: A Celebration of the Season
Guests in the mood for music can enjoy seasonal sounds that blend inspiring gospel with R&B, jazz, and more. JOYFUL is performed daily at the Future World Fountain Stage. Consult the park guide map for exact times.
Illuminations: Reflections of Earth
As night falls, guests gather around the World Showcase Lagoon to witness the story of Earth told through a twelve minute dazzling display of fireworks, comets of light, fireballs, and the 350,000 pound Earth globe, the world’s first spherical video display system. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth is narrated by the voice of Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and other Disney characters—Jim Cummings.
This show is certainly a must-see attraction anytime of year, but from November 24-December 30 you won’t want to miss a special Holiday finale. This festive ending includes holiday greetings from the countries of World Showcase, along with the beloved holiday classic, “Let There Be Peace on Earth.”
Candlelight Processional
Held every year, the Candlelight Processional is the centerpiece of holiday celebrations at Epcot. A celebrity narrator, backed by a choir and fifty-piece orchestra, tells the moving story of Christmas using words and music. Shows are held each evening from November 25-December 27 at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 (note: there is no 5:00 show on Dec. 4) in the America Gardens Theater.
Sign Language Details
An American Sign Language interpreter will be on stage to translate the narrated story, allowing hearing-impaired guests to enjoy the event.
Candlelight Processional Narrators
*NEW* Laurie Hernandez – November 24-26, 2017
*NEW* Matt Bomer – November 27-28, 2017
Ana Gasteyer – November 29-30, 2017
Whoopi Goldberg – December 1-3, 2017
*NEW* Pat Sajak – December 4-5, 2017
Jodi Benson – December 6-8, 2017
*NEW* Kurt Russell – December 9-11, 2017
*NEW* Warwick Davis – December 12-14, 2017
Trace Adkins – December 15-17, 2017
*NEW* CCH Pounder – December 22-24, 2017
Jaci Velasquez – December 25-27, 2017
Chandra Wilson – December 28-30, 2017
Note: celebrity narrators, dates, and other entertainment are subject to change without notice. Epcot admission is required.
Candlelight Dining Packages
Reserving a Candlelight Dining Package will allow you to enjoy a festive holiday meal and guaranteed seating at the annual Candlelight Processional. Candlelight Dining Packages are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and include a 3-course meal or full buffet (depending on the location you choose).
Click here to see the full list of unique eateries that are offering Candlelight Dining Packages, and full-pricing details.
What holiday events are you looking forward to at Walt Disney World? Disney knows how to celebrate! Keep following us here at Word of Mouse for more information and updates.
Word of Mouse 
2 thoughts on “‘Tis the Season for Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays”