International Festival of the Holidays is one of the 4 yearly Festivals at Epcot. The best part of these festivals are most of the added entertainment is included with your park ticket. Dates can vary slightly by year, the 2019 holiday celebrations start on November 29 through December 30, 2019. This festival was previously named Holidays around the World.
1. Grab your FREE Festival Passport. Inside is a list of the Holiday Kitchens and their offerings. The Holiday Kitchens are not to be missed, especially for my foodie friends out there. Be sure to browse the list and check off what you try! The passport makes a great (FREE) keepsake as well. It will keep little kids hands busy too. Do not miss the exclusive seasonal flavored offerings, think eggnog and more! Save your appetite for the Holiday Kitchens and taste your way around the park.
2. See a guests favorite, the Candlelight Processional. This beautiful display takes place at the America Gardens Theatre each evening, by various celebrity guest narrators. Listen to a retelling of the traditional Christmas Story by not just a narrator. In addition, a choir and 50-piece orchestra join in on the performance! This event is a highlight of the Festival to many guests.
3. Be Joyful with JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season. Christmas and Kwanzaa Joy come together in this celebration. Listen to uplifting Gospel, R&B and more holiday songs by the Joyful! vocals. Daily performances during the holiday season will occur at the Future World Fountain Stage.
4. Go on a Scavenger Hunt. There is a small cost associated to participate in Chip & Dale’s Christmas Tree Spree. Purchase your map & stickers, then guests can travel around the World Showcase on a scavenger hunt mission. Chip and Dale need your help to find all the ornaments. Once you spot them in each pavilion, match the corresponding sticker to your map. Turn in your completed map for a festive surprise! Maps are sold and can be turned in at Pin Central, Disney Traders and World Traveler in Epcot. Theming may vary by year.
5. Stop to listen to Holiday Storytellers around the World. In each of the countries during the festival, guests will find storytellers. Listen to how each particular country celebrates the holidays for interesting educational experiences! Performances are weather permitting. Be sure to check the festival guide for times daily. Tip, head to the Germany Pavilion to hear the story of the Nutcracker! We hope this tradition continues for years to come. Do note, it would be time consuming to see all of them in one trip, therefore pick your top 1 or 2 pavilions to stop and listen. It is a great learning experience.
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