Disney Springs Kicks off the Holiday Season at Walt Disney World with Christmas Tree Lighting

Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Nov. 8, 2024) – Disney Springs kicked off the holiday season at the Walt Disney World Resort with a ceremonial tree lighting Friday.

The 45-foot Christmas tree was illuminated by Walt Disney World senior vice president Katie Stretch, Disney Springs vice president Matt Simon and Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad amid festive holiday entertainment, including toy soldier stilt walkers and a brass band.

This event officially marked the beginning of the many holiday festivities taking place across Walt Disney World, bringing even more magic and joy for guests this season. From Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights to EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth, there are countless ways to revel in the holiday spirit at Walt Disney World.

Guests can also experience seasonal décor, exciting new entertainment and limited-time holiday treats throughout all four theme parks, Disney Springs and Disney resort hotels.

Another new holiday twist this year is interactive storytelling window displays outside the World of Disney store at Disney Springs. The windows celebrate the classic tradition of writing letters to Santa and feature beloved Disney characters. Guests can tap their MagicBand+ to unlock unique animations and surprises in the new displays.

Additionally, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth showcases 21 trees with Disney-inspired themes such as the movie “Coco,” with vibrant papel picado, “Star Wars,” featuring iconic imagery, and the movie “Toy Story,” adorned with playful ornaments. Most of these trees invite guests to interact using MagicBand+, revealing fun surprises with each tap.

A new Santa Claus greeting location in the marketplace invites families to take festive photos with Santa. The cozy setting filled with cheerful decorations and holiday music creates a perfect backdrop for memorable family photos. Guests can join a virtual queue via the My Disney Experience app to meet Santa now through December 24.

The holiday festivities at Disney Springs run through Dec. 30.

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