The holidays have always been a time for gathering, joy, and traditions — and for generations, Disney has been at the heart of those celebrations. From the earliest days of Disneyland in 1955 to today’s global parks, resorts, and cruise line experiences, the holiday season has become one of the most cherished times for Disney fans around the world.
A Tradition That Began in 1955
When Disneyland opened its gates in 1955, the holidays quickly became a centerpiece of the guest experience. That first Christmas season featured carolers and festive décor, setting the stage for traditions that would endure for decades. Just three years later, Walt Disney personally introduced the Candlelight Processional in 1958 — a moving ceremony combining a mass choir, live orchestra, and narration of the Christmas story. Today, this beloved event continues at Disneyland and EPCOT, drawing thousands of guests each season.
Over the years, Disney expanded its holiday offerings across the globe. In 1983, Walt Disney World debuted Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which evolved from a single-night celebration into a multi-week extravaganza featuring parades, fireworks, and exclusive treats, and Jollywood Nights began bringing seasonal magic to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2023. At Disneyland, seasonal overlays like Haunted Mansion Holiday and “it’s a small world” Holiday became fan favorites, reinforcing Disney’s commitment to making the holidays magical in ways only Disney can.
@arielle_mae These little things we do year after year overflow and break my heart all at once❤️ @Disney Parks #cookiestroll #disneymom #festivaloftheholidays ♬ original sound – edited audios
A Global Gathering Place
Disney parks have long been a destination for families and friends to come together during the holidays. Across the globe, each park celebrates the season in ways that reflect its local culture and traditions — while staying true to the Disney magic that unites guests everywhere.
At Tokyo Disney Resort, the holidays sparkle with distinctly Japanese touches, blending Disney storytelling with seasonal customs that resonate with local guests. Disneyland Paris transforms into a festive European market, creating moments that are both authentic to the area, yet unmistakably Disney. In Hong Kong and Shanghai, holiday celebrations, which then transition to Chinese New Year, incorporate regional flavors and traditions, from décor to unique entertainment offerings that honor local heritage.
“When we design holiday experiences, we’re thinking about more than lights and music — we’re creating traditions that families will carry with them for generations,” David Lightbody, Senior Vice President, Disney Live Entertainment, said. “Every parade, every song, every shared moment is part of a story that connects grandparents, parents, and children in a way that feels timeless.”
Holiday Magic at Sea
In 1998, Disney Cruise Line brought holiday celebrations to the high seas with the launch of the Disney Magic. Soon after, the line introduced Very Merrytime Cruises, transforming ships into floating winter wonderlands adorned with shimmering garlands, nautical-themed Christmas trees, and life-sized gingerbread displays. Guests enjoy festive entertainment, holiday-themed menus, and special character experiences — all while sailing to tropical destinations. Today, these cruises run from early November through December, offering families a unique way to make Disney part of their holiday traditions — even while crossing oceans.
Giving Back to Communities
Disney’s holiday giving legacy dates back nearly 80 years, beginning with Walt Disney’s collaboration with Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks in 1948 to create the Toys for Tots logo and first national poster. Walt even produced a short film encouraging toy donations, and Disneyland became an official drop-off location when it opened in 1955.
That spirit of generosity continues today through the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive, which in 2025 includes Stitch traveling the globe as part of the Disney Holiday Magic Tour. This year’s efforts feature immersive shopping experiences for families in need, toy distribution events, and VoluntEARS working alongside Marines to sort and deliver thousands of toys. Over the years, Disney has donated millions of toys to kids in need around the world.
Holiday Magic Beyond the Parks
Disney’s holiday spirit extends far beyond its destinations. This year, one-of-a-kind activations like the Selfridges holiday pop-up in London — a massive Disney takeover called “A Most Magical Christmas” — transforms the Oxford Street store with an 11-meter castle facade, Disney-themed windows, exclusive merchandise, themed cafés, and nightly light shows featuring beloved characters and nostalgic scenes. This created a truly immersive, magical experience through the festive season that brings Disney magic to iconic shopping destinations throughout the UK.
As the #1 global licensor, Disney brings holiday magic to millions around the world through consumer products that celebrate the season in true Disney style.
For 70 years, Disney has been part of holiday traditions — creating spaces where families gather, communities thrive, and magic feels real. As we celebrate this season, we honor the past and look forward to continuing this legacy for generations to come.
Disney’s Global Holiday Magic
- Disney Parks are the most visited theme parks globally with 145 million guests annually (source: 2024 TEA report), with the holidays being one of the biggest seasons.
- Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade first aired in 1983, becoming a Christmas morning tradition for millions of families.
- Disney’s domestic theme parks alone generate nearly $67 billion in annual economic impact and support more than 403,000 jobs, underscoring Disney’s role as a cornerstone of America’s holiday economy.
- Disney is the #1 global licensor, with $63 billion in licensed product sales in 2024 extending holiday magic across the globe.
- Disney’s relationship with Toys for Tots dates back to 1948, with tens of thousands of toys donated annually.
