Spending the holiday season in the United States is like stepping into one of those movies we used to watch on television as kids. Doing so in Orlando combines that feeling with the magic of Christmas in the theme parks!
In other words, it’s an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

We’ve already given a brief overview of the holiday attractions at Walt Disney World Resort in a previous blog post. Today, let’s delve deeper into the EPCOT festivities, specifically the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

The event takes place in 2023 from November 24 to December 30 and features special decorations, musical performances, and a variety of Christmas-themed culinary delights.

Candlelight Processional

An orchestra of 50 instruments and the Voices of Liberty group join forces with an incredible gospel choir. All of this to accompany a celebrity narrating Christmas stories and enchanting everyone.

Location: America Gardens Theatre
Dates: 11/24 to 11/30/23
Times: 5:15 pm / 7:00 pm / 8:30 pm

Check out the celebrities who will be narrating the beautiful Christmas stories:

November:
Chrissy Metz – 11/24 and 11/25
Luis Fonsi – 11/26 and 11/27
Ann-Margret – 11/28 and 11/29
Simu Liu – 11/30

December:
Simu Liu – 12/01 and 12/02
John Stamos – 12/03 to 12/05
Neil Patrick Harris – 12/06 to 12/08
Marlee Matlin – 12/09 to 12/11
Brendan Fraser – 12/12 to 12/14
Eva Longoria – 12/15 and 12/16
Joey McIntyre – 12/17 and 12/18
Sterling K. Brown – 12/19 and 12/20
Jordan Fisher – 12/21 to 12/23
Steven Curtis Chapman – 12/24 to 12/26
Audra McDonald – 12/27 and 12/28
Lisa Ling – 12/29 and 12/30

JOYFUL – A Christmas Celebration

The joy of Christmas and Kwanzaa is conveyed through soulful, gospel, and Christmas songs. The JOYFUL ensemble delivers an exciting and unforgettable performance.
Location: World Showcase Plaza

Times: 1:15 pm, 2:20 pm, 3:25 pm, and 4:30 pm

Storytellers from Around the World

If you have a passion for exploring new cultures, you’ll love this attraction. Wander through the World Showcase and discover Christmas traditions celebrated by various cultures worldwide.

Mexico – Las Posadas Celebration

¡Feliz Navidad! A lot of fun awaits you at the Las Posadas parade. Piñatas, dancers, and lively music from Mariachi Cobre will enchant everyone.

When: Sunday to Thursday

Norway – A Mischievous Magical Barn Santa

Follow Sigrid as she tells a Christmas story without imagining what will happen when visited by a very clever elf. A fun experience for the whole family.
When: Daily

China – Lion Dance

A colorful presentation that brings prosperity and happiness for the New Year following Chinese culture.
When: Daily

Italy – La Befana

You’ll hear the story of La Befana, a generous witch who visits sleeping children on the Epiphany Eve.
When: Daily

Japan – Daruma’s Storyteller

Here, you’ll listen to the incredible story of Daruma and Japanese customs for the New Year, involving a lot of culture.
When: Daily

Between the France and Morocco pavilions – Hanukkah Storyteller

Don’t miss this spot in the park to hear a storyteller recounting their travels in search of various Hanukkah songs and traditions worldwide.
When: Daily

France – Père Noël

Be enchanted by Père Noël and discover the magic of Christmas through the words and gaze of a very cute child.
When: Daily

United Kingdom – Father Christmas
Celebrate the season with UK traditions and much joy by joining Father Christmas.

When: Daily

Canada – Canadian Holiday Voyageurs

Various customs from regions of Canada will be discovered on a journey with lots of music featuring the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs.
When: Daily

Voices of Liberty: Dickens Carolers

Check out unique interpretations of exciting Christmas songs presented by talented vocalists. During the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, Voices of Liberty celebrates the season with special performances like the Dickens Carolers.

In the corridors of The American Adventure Pavilion, you’ll witness the Dickens Carolers in festive attire, filling the space with enchanting melodies while the acoustically perfect dome amplifies their voices. It’s an amazing auditory experience!

Each performance lasts about 15 minutes and takes place from November 24 to December 30.

Meet and greet with Santa Claus

Santa Claus eagerly awaits you to hear children’s wishes and for the classic family photo with Santa. This meeting is a must on your itinerary during the holiday season at EPCOT, especially if you are traveling with children.

Location: The Odyssey Pavilion

Times: 11:00 am, 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:00 pm, and 6:30 pm

Dates: Daily from 11/24 to 12/24

In the pavilions listed below, you’ll experience the magic of Christmas through the eyes of various cultures.

Culinary Experiences

Enjoy traditional holiday delights typical of various countries.
You can savor special dishes and drinks for this time of year at the Holiday Kitchens and indulge in delicious treats at the Holiday Cookie Stroll.

Holiday Cookie Stroll

Have a sweeter experience with traditional Christmas cookies that are a delight!
When you purchase cookies at any official location of the Holiday Cookie Stroll listed in your Festival Passport, you receive a stamp. After collecting five stamps, you can go to Holiday Sweets & Treats and receive a special cookie!
With so many attractions at the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, it’s sure to be a guaranteed fun time for your whole family and an unforgettable trip!

EPCOT with Kids

It’s highly likely that you’ll be traveling with kids to Orlando, so know that both EPCOT and the other parks offer stroller rentals. However, the strollers offered in the parks are uncomfortable and rigid, which may not provide a good experience for your children.

Book your stroller with StrollerCare! Have comfortable, new, and sanitized strollers for every day of your trip and all outings, with the convenience of delivery to your preferred location, whether it’s a hotel, airport, or directly to the park.

Learn more by chatting with our team here on the blog.

Images: Epcot Promotion