Moms Panel Monday: Christmas in July at the Walt Disney World Resort

Oh, the weather outside is frightful, wait…the weather outside is actually hot and now is not the time to build a fire, but it is the perfect time to think about the holidays at the Walt Disney World Resort!

In only a few short months, the classic holiday fun will begin to fill the parks, and we are as excited as a child on Christmas morning.

At Magic Kingdom Park, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will kick off on November 8 and run through December 21 on select nights. Mickey and his pals will be wearing their best holiday attire, while the magic of the season will fill the air. There will be complimentary treats (even gluten free options), holiday music and snow on Main Street, U.S.A. Panelist, Lauren H., reminds Guests you must purchase a special event ticket to enjoy the festivities.

Epcot International Festival of the Holidays is another holiday tradition not to be missed. The 11 World Showcase nations will proudly display their country’s magical decorations, and of course they will be serving up their delectable food. Expanded Holiday Kitchens will help you on your quest to eat around the world all while enjoying entertainment provided by costumed performers celebrating long-standing traditions. While enjoying the sights and sounds of the season, don’t miss joining Chip and Dale as they collect ornaments for their Christmas tree. In Chip and Dale’s Christmas Spree Scavenger Hunt, Guests can purchase a map and stickers from select merchandise locations and travel around World Showcase looking for the adorable duo with their ornaments.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will return, as well as Sunset Seasons Greetings. There will be seasonal shows featuring your favorite classic Disney Characters, as well as several new additions! Guests can also meet Santa at the Once Upon a Time shop November 10 – December 24, and Santa Goofy will help the man in red out on December 25. Don’t forget Minnie’s Holiday Dine, which is the perfect spot to enjoy a dinner filled with holiday cheer.

New this year at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is the addition of Diwali, the holiday Festival of Lights in India, to the new live show UP! A Great Bird Adventure. This will begin on November 8.

Not sure what to buy Aunt Edna? Holiday shopping is a breeze at Disney Springs! Make sure you make time to visit all the brand-name shops, as well as Disney themed boutiques. There will be festive holiday décor and food that would make even Scrooge McDuck smile. Guests can also enjoy a stroll through the Christmas Tree Trail and a visit with Santa Claus at Santa’s Chalet.

The holidays are also a wonderful time to stroll through the beautifully themed resorts. Garland, twinkling lights and Christmas trees are all a part of the festive decorations. Don’t forget the Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which is one of Beth S.’s favorite resorts to visit during the season.

For more information on holiday events at the Walt Disney World Resort, or for general Disney vacation planning tips, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.