We are just around the corner from the holiday season, but there is still time to make magic happen. Throughout Disney destinations, the holiday season begins in mid-November. Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line are magical year round, but there is a special kind of magic during the holidays.
Walt Disney World has the most beautiful decorations everywhere you turn. Cinderella’s Castle is covered in twinkling lights, as if draped in glittery snow and icicles. On top of the gorgeous décor, you will find Disney characters dressed in special apparel. Guests can have a meet-n-greet with Santa Goofy or visit Mickey and Minnie in their holiday best. Plus, every resort is decorated with great detail to complement their already existing styles and themes.
Looking for something extra special? Walt Disney World hosts Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. On select nights in November and December, this party features exclusive holiday entertainment, snow falling on Main Street U.S.A., complimentary treats of cookies and cocoa, and — new this year — a stunning castle projection, fireworks show and holiday parade with Santa bringing up the rear.
If you are looking for all the magic at a slower pace, climb aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship for a Very Merrytime Sailing. All four ships are beautifully adorned with festive decorations that include a life-sized gingerbread house, a 24-foot Christmas tree, garlands, poinsettias and shimmering lights. On the first evening, Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic Ceremony kicks off the celebration.
While on board, you can do as much or as little as you like, as the crew takes care of all your needs. A Disney Cruise includes many things: Broadway-style shows, spacious staterooms, non-alcoholic beverages and a variety of food including the buffet, restaurants, poolside snacks, all-you-can-eat ice cream and 24-hour room service. Hoping for a date night for the parents? No problem — youth clubs give kids many options for entertainment, so you can check them in and enjoy an evening on your own. You can even make reservations at Palo, an adults-only, northern Italian style restaurant available on every ship.
If reading this makes you wish you had something planned, but don’t feel there’s enough time (for planning or budgeting) for this year, let Visit Mickey help you get set up for the holiday season in 2020. Walt Disney World can be booked through 2020 and Disney Cruise Line can be booked through May 2021. It’s always best to book early and save.
Tricia Scott is owner of Visit Mickey Vacations, the exclusive travel planners of Northeast Ohio Parent magazine. For a free quote, go to visitmickey.com/quote-neoparent.