08-07-2025
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Returns in 2025
The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays returns to Walt Disney World Resort from November 29 through December 30, 2025. This fan-favorite event transforms EPCOT into a dazzling celebration of holiday traditions from around the world, offering guests a rich tapestry of seasonal flavors, live entertainment, and heartwarming storytelling. A Global Celebration of the Season
Spanning World Showcase and select areas of World Celebration and World Discovery, the Festival of the Holidays invites guests to explore how different cultures commemorate the holiday season. From festive music and traditional décor to authentic foods and live performances, every corner of EPCOT is infused with the spirit of joy, peace, and goodwill. The Candlelight Processional Returns
At the heart of the festival is the Candlelight Processional, one of Walt Disney World's most cherished holiday traditions. Staged nightly at the America Gardens Theatre, this stirring performance features a full orchestra, a massed choir composed of Disney cast members and community groups, and a rotating lineup of celebrity narrators who retell the biblical story of Christmas.
Guests can expect a powerful blend of music and narration, accompanied by candlelit ambiance and timeless arrangements. In the coming months, Disney will release the full list of celebrity narrators along with details about dining packages, which offer reserved seating options for the show. Savor the Season with Holiday Kitchens
The Holiday Kitchens are a culinary tour of holiday traditions, offering more than a dozen food booths around the park that highlight seasonal flavors from various cultures. From classic American holiday dishes to international treats, there's something to satisfy every palate.
In past years, popular booths have included: American Holiday Table – featuring traditional favorites like slow-roasted turkey and stuffing.
Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen – highlighting Mexican holiday cuisine with tamales and festive beverages.
L'Chaim! Holiday Kitchen – offering Jewish delicacies such as potato latkes and brisket.
Yukon Holiday Kitchen – serving Canadian comfort food like seared scallops and maple-butter glazed treats.
Menus for the 2025 festival are expected to be announced later this fall, and guests can pick up a Festival Passport to track their culinary journey. Festive Entertainment and Storytelling
The entertainment lineup this year brings back a series of Holiday Storytellers, each stationed at different World Showcase pavilions. These cultural representatives share authentic stories and customs from their native countries, offering engaging, family-friendly performances that bring global traditions to life. Past storytellers have included: Père Noël in France, sharing the magic of a French Christmas.
La Befana in Italy, telling the tale of the kind-hearted witch who delivers gifts to children.
Daruma Seller in Japan, discussing New Year traditions and the symbolism of the Daruma doll.
At the World Showcase Plaza stage, JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season returns with an uplifting blend of gospel, R&B, and contemporary holiday music. This high-energy show is a must-see for anyone seeking powerful vocals and feel-good vibes.
The Holiday Cookie Stroll
Back by popular demand, the Holiday Cookie Stroll invites guests to indulge their sweet tooth. Purchase five designated cookies at select Holiday Kitchens (stamped in your Festival Passport), and you'll receive a complimentary specialty cookie as a reward. It's a fun and festive activity that's perfect for families and snack lovers.
More Magic Throughout the Park
Guests can also enjoy: Seasonal overlays on select attractions and decor throughout EPCOT.
Holiday merchandise featuring exclusive apparel, kitchenware, and collectibles.
Themed PhotoPass opportunities, including Magic Shots and festive backdrops.
The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is included with regular theme park admission. While many offerings are complimentary, food, beverages, and select activities may require additional purchase.
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Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83
