Well, it’s official: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party isn’t returning this year at Magic Kingdom. This was expected due to the ongoing pandemic and the fact that Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is also on hiatus for 2020.
MVMCP isn’t the only canceled holiday event. The following will not be happening this year:
- Magic Kingdom’s Castle Dream Lights
- Gingerbread House displays at hotels
- Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail
- Epcot’s Candlelight Processional
As disappointing as that might be, it’s understandable. Disney has to ensure the safety of both guests and Cast Members.
As they said in their holiday announcement, “We know these experiences are a cherished part of holiday traditions that will be missed by guests and cast members alike, but we’re glad to be able to bring holiday magic in other creative ways.”
And just what do those “creative ways” include? Check it out!
- A modified Epcot International Festival of the Holidays beginning Nov. 27 featuring holiday kitchens and entertainment. JOYFUL! will perform R&B, Gospel, contemporary, and traditional Christmas and holiday music in the World ShowPlace. Voices of Liberty will also perform at the America Gardens Theatre.
- Holiday cavalcades at all four theme parks with some featuring reindeer, elves, gingerbread men, characters in festive outfits. Plus the Toy Soldiers will march with the Main Street Philharmonic at Magic Kingdom.
- Cinderella Castle will have rotating holiday nighttime projections for guests to take pictures of and in front of. These are in place of the Dream Lights.
- Modified character dining will return to Hollywood & Vine at Hollywood Studios with Minnie, Santa Goofy, and others beginning Nov. 6.
- Santa Claus will appear at each park and Disney Springs to say hi!
- Christmas trees will be scattered around Disney Springs, along with snow falling within Town Center, the West Side, and The Landing. Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar is also returning.
Of course, there will also be festive merchandise and treats, along with decorations at the parks and resorts. The holidays officially kickoff on Nov. 6 and will run through Dec. 30.
The special time of year might be modified at WDW, but there’s still so many ways to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.
For all of the latest updates and information, be sure to keep an eye on our WDW reopening page and our 2020 & 2021 vacation planner.
