The Complete Guide for EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
UPDATED FOR 2025
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is not just a seasonal celebration, it is a beautifully curated experience that honors holiday traditions from cultures around the world. This annual festival invites guests to explore international customs through live music, storytelling, decorations, and a wide variety of delicious seasonal dishes. If you are looking for festive food, emotional performances, and global holiday cheer in one place, this is where you want to be.
This detailed guide walks you through exactly what to see, where to find it, how to book dining packages, and what to expect for families visiting with kids.
Festival Dates for 2025
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays will run from November 28 through December 30, 2025. It typically begins the day after Thanksgiving and concludes just before the New Year.
There is no special ticket required. The festival is included with regular EPCOT theme park admission, and you must have a valid park reservation for your visit.
Weather in Late November and December
This time of year brings some of Florida’s most pleasant weather. Most days hover between mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, while evenings cool down and may dip into the 50s or even 40s.
Pack layers. Plan to wear shorts and t-shirts during the day, but bring a light jacket or sweatshirt for evenings, especially if you are attending the Candlelight Processional or watching nighttime performances.
Entertainment and Special Experiences
Here is what you can expect to see and do throughout the park. Everything listed here is included with park admission unless otherwise noted.
Candlelight Processional
Location: America Gardens Theatre
Showtimes: 5:15 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM (subject to change)
Celebrity Narrators: Announced on the Disney Parks Blog closer to the festival start
Cost: Included with admission, but guaranteed seating requires a dining package
This is one of the most moving traditions at Walt Disney World. A celebrity narrator retells the Christmas story, backed by a live orchestra and choir. Performers include Disney Cast Members and community groups, and the result is a breathtaking blend of story and song.
How to attend:
Standby seating is available but fills up quickly. Guests begin lining up well over an hour before showtime.
Dining Packages can be reserved for guaranteed seating. These include a meal at a participating restaurant and a reserved seat for the show.
Dining Package Tips:
Book on the My Disney Experience app or Disney website.
Reservations usually open in late September or early October. Set an alert to check the Disney Parks Blog for official release dates.
Restaurants offering packages often include Coral Reef Restaurant, Garden Grill, and Rose and Crown Dining Room. You will receive a seating badge after your meal.
Same-day packages may be available at Regal Eagle Smokehouse (walk-up only, very limited).
How to Book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package
Dining packages are booked through the My Disney Experience app or at disneyworld.disney.go.com.
Booking usually opens in late September or early October, with exact dates announced on the Disney Parks Blog.
Choose from participating restaurants like:
Coral Reef Restaurant
Garden Grill
Rose & Crown Dining Room
Biergarten Restaurant
Regal Eagle (same-day walk-up only, first come first served)
You must dine on the same day as your preferred Candlelight Processional performance.
After your meal, you’ll receive a badge for reserved seating at the theater.
Tip: These packages go quickly. Be online at 6 AM Eastern the day reservations open.
JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
Location: World Showcase Plaza stage
Performance Style: Live music blending Gospel, R&B, and holiday hits
Performance Times: Several shows throughout the day
This celebration highlights the musical traditions of Christmas and Kwanzaa. It is energetic, emotional, and filled with talent. There are no seats, so arrive early for a good spot near the stage.
Holiday Storytellers
Location: World Showcase pavilions
Schedule: Performances are scheduled throughout the day and listed in the Festival Passport and My Disney Experience app
Each pavilion features its own cultural storyteller who shares how that country celebrates the season. These short shows are perfect for all ages and are especially memorable for kids.
Examples include:
Father Christmas in the UK
La Befana in Italy
The Hanukkah Storyteller in America
The Daruma Doll in Japan
Each performance runs about 15 to 20 minutes and repeats several times per day.
Santa Claus Meet and Greet
Location: Odyssey Pavilion
PhotoPass available: Yes
Timing: Santa typically appears from late morning through early evening
This is one of the best ways to meet Santa at Walt Disney World. The setting is cozy and festive, and the line is often shorter than other locations. Santa listens to wishes and poses for photos with families.
Tips for families:
Bring your own camera or use PhotoPass
Line up early in the day to avoid the afternoon rush
Characters may take breaks, so check exact times in the app
Holiday Cookie Stroll
How it works:
Pick up a Festival Passport at the entrance or any Holiday Kitchen and use it to track your cookie purchases. After buying five qualifying cookies, you will receive a stamp for each. Once your passport is complete, head to Holiday Sweets and Treats to redeem a complimentary sixth cookie and a commemorative completion prize.
Cookies often included:
Snickerdoodle
Linzer Cookie
Black and White Cookie
Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth Cookie
Coffee Mocha Cookie
This is one of the best festival activities for kids. It turns treat tasting into an interactive scavenger hunt. Each cookie costs between four and six dollars.
Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition
Cost: Purchase required (around $10)
Where to buy: Creations Shop, Port of Entry, or World Traveler gift shop
How to play: Use your scavenger map to search for Olaf statues hidden around the park. Each one is holding a different holiday tradition from around the world.
Once you find them all and complete your map, return to the redemption location to claim a prize.
This is ideal for kids who need a break from standing in lines. It encourages walking, exploration, and can be done at your own pace throughout the day.
Living with the Land: Glimmering Greenhouses
Location: The Land Pavilion
Best time to ride: After sunset
At night, this classic slow-moving boat ride sparkles with holiday lights and seasonal touches. It is peaceful, family-friendly, and often overlooked. This version is only available during the Festival of the Holidays.
CommuniCore Hall Holiday Cheer
New in 2025, this space will feature themed food, gingerbread displays, and holiday merchandise. Look for a large gingerbread replica of Spaceship Earth, festive snacks, and possibly seasonal character interactions. This indoor area offers a great rest spot and is stroller friendly.
Holiday Décor and Photo Opportunities
You will find festive photo ops throughout the park including:
Twinkling lights and garlands at each pavilion
Mickey-shaped holiday topiaries and decorations
Giant Christmas tree at World Showcase Plaza
Special PhotoPass magic shots with holiday overlays
Be sure to visit Main Entrance and World Showcase Plaza for the best family photo backdrops.
Holiday Kitchens and Food Highlights
There are over 15 Holiday Kitchens scattered throughout the park. Each booth focuses on a specific culture or region’s holiday cuisine.
Average price range: $3 to $8 per item
Tips: Use the Festival Passport to plan your food stops. Sharing items between family members helps you try more without overstuffing.
Popular Savory Items
Slow-Roasted Turkey with Stuffing and Cranberry Sauce (American Holiday Table)
Pastrami on Rye with House-Made Pickles and Deli Mustard (American Holiday Table)
Reuben Croquettes (Favorites of Festival Past booth)
Brown Sugar and Mustard-Glazed Ham Slider with Apple Cranberry Slaw
Cheese Fondue in a Bread Bowl with Steamed Veggies (Bavaria Holiday Kitchen)
Pork Schnitzel and Beef Noodle Soup (Germany Pavilion)
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Bauducco Panettone Holiday Trifle
Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth Cookie
Chocolate Peppermint Funnel Cake
Black and White Cookie
Linzer Cookie
Beverages and Seasonal Cocktails
Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini
Holiday Fig Cocktail
Pumpkin Spice Ginger Cocktail
Hot Chocolates (Coquito, Gingerbread, Peppermint)
Craft Beer Flights
Chai Tea Mule and Coconut Guavarita
Most drinks can be found at their corresponding Holiday Kitchens. Alcoholic beverages are for guests 21 and older.
Festival Tips for Families
Use the Festival Passport: This is your guide to all food booths, showtimes, and activities. Grab one at the park entrance or most festival kiosks.
Plan Candlelight Processional early: If you want guaranteed seating, book a dining package as soon as it drops in the fall.
Budget for food: Even small items add up. Expect to spend $40 to $60 per adult if sampling several booths.
Bring layers: Evening temps drop, and kids who are cold will lose interest fast.
Use Genie+ or standby smartly: Festival activities eat up your day. Be strategic about your ride priorities if you want to fit it all in.
Use mobile order for regular meals: Lines can be long during festivals. Use mobile order at standard EPCOT quick service spots if you need to grab a fast meal for kids.
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is one of the most thoughtfully designed seasonal events at Walt Disney World. It blends cultural education, food exploration, and meaningful entertainment in a way that feels both celebratory and grounded. Whether you are traveling with young kids, teens, or visiting with adults, the variety of offerings makes it easy to tailor your experience.
If you're planning a December trip to Walt Disney World, this festival adds real value to your EPCOT day without the need for a separate ticket or premium upcharge. With the right planning, you can fit in the Candlelight Processional, enjoy seasonal dishes from around the globe, and still leave time for classic rides and nighttime moments.
Keep an eye on official announcements as dates, menus, and schedules are released in the fall. With this guide in hand, you’ll be ready to take on the festival with confidence and clarity.
