From the jolly decor to the seasonal merchandise, the Disney holidays have finally begun.
It may only be the first week of November (with temperatures in Orlando still reaching well into the 80s), but it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Walt Disney World.
In true Disney fashion, the days immediately following Halloween were a scene of magical transformation, with cast members changing out the spooky decor for festive merriment under the cover of night.
Although the premiere holiday event of the season, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, won’t begin until November 9, Disney World has wasted no time in getting a jump on holiday spirit. Giant pumpkins and colorful leaves have now been replaced with wreaths, baubles, garland and sparkle, giving guests their first taste of the season.
Disney will continue the decorating in the process in the weeks to come, but park-goers have already taken to social media to share the festive progress. From the joyful, glowing streets of Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom to the decked-out Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood Studios, the holidays are slowly making their way into every corner of the park, and visitors can’t get enough.
In addition to the jolly decor, Disney World has also begun to stock its shops with all things holiday, debuting new Christmas ornaments, home decor, clothing and much more. The season’s festive popcorn bucket has even made an appearance already, this year taking the form of an adorable Pluto in his best Christmas sweater.
Evidently, Disney fans don’t mind the very early start to the season: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party is already sold out for opening night. However, the party is just one of many events, shows, character meet-and-greets, meals and fireworks spectaculars that make the season special at the Disney parks. If you’re spending the holidays in Orlando and want to make sure you get it all done, Disney World is even offering an ultimate Christmas package this year, full of exclusive experiences, for the merriest of guests.
For anyone interested in taking a behind-the-scenes look at how the annual holiday transformation takes place, Disney is also giving a few exclusive backstage tours that let guests peak behind the magic.
