Walt Disney World Holiday Celebrations

One beloved tradition that my husband and I have shared for the past 24 years is attending the holiday celebrations every December at Walt Disney World. The only year we missed was 2020, when events were canceled. For all those years, we made it a point to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) at Magic Kingdom. That event always marked the official start of the holiday season for us and truly made the holidays feel real.

Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree
Magic Kingdom Christmas Tree

Changing a Tradition

For years, we never imagined changing this tradition. But in 2024, we decided to try something new—Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. It was a tough decision for me because I’m a firm believer in keeping holiday traditions consistent. But I’m so glad we stepped outside our comfort zone!

What I love most about traditions is creating familiar memories—riding our favorite attractions, indulging in festive treats, picking up a dated ornament, and reminiscing about past years while making new memories. Trying something new felt risky, but Jollywood Nights rewarded us in every way.

Disney Jollywood Nights Tower of Terror
Disney Jollywood Nights – Tower of Terror

A Fresh and New Experience

Jollywood brought fresh experiences: new rides, unique photo ops, a different vibe—and surprisingly, a sense of nostalgia. It reminded us of the earlier days of MVMCP, when the crowds were lighter and the magic felt more intimate. The park ambiance, with its glitzy old-Hollywood charm, was the real highlight of the night. The atmosphere was pure magic.

The Millennium Falcon in Batuu
The Millennium Falcon in Batuu

The event offered stunning projection displays, high-energy shows, immersive photo spots, and, best of all—short wait times! We walked onto Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, rode Toy Story Mania twice with minimal wait, and had our shortest-ever wait for Rise of the Resistance.

While nothing will ever replace the joy MVMCP brought us over the years—and we fully intend to return—it’s safe to say that Jollywood Nights has earned a place in our holiday tradition too.

Woody in Toy Story Land
“Howdy Partner…. There’s a snake in my boot”

Disney is Most Magical During the Holidays

For me, Disney is at its most magical during the holidays. Maybe it’s the Christmas parties I attended as a child, or how the parks go all out with decorations and entertainment. Or maybe it’s because, for me, the holiday season always begins with Disney. Whatever the reason, it remains my happiest time to be there.

If you’re considering which Disney holiday party to attend, I honestly can’t choose just one. You can’t go wrong—each offers its own kind of magic. Try one (or all!), and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a new tradition of your own.

Toy-Story-Slinky-Dog
Toy-Story-Slinky-Dog

If you’re planning to attend the 2025 Disney Jollywood Nights Christmas party, unfortunately Disney has not yet announced the dates, ticket prices, or additional details. However, this limited capacity holiday party usually happens mid November through December and as soon as we know when the dates and tickets will be available, we will post it for you on our Facebook page.


Written by Jamie Carr. Jamie is a longtime DVC Sales specialist and has been with The Timeshare Store,Inc.® for over 22 years, helping thousands of families with all things Disney.

Jamie Carr and her husband Chris
Jamie Carr and her husband Chris

If you have any questions about the various Disney Christmas celebrations, renting a DVC villa, purchasing, or selling a DVC property, please contact us, and one of our agents will be happy to assist you with any questions or details you may need. You can reach out to sales@dvcstore.com or call 800-550-6493.