The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. What better place to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season than at Walt Disney World's EPCOT, where enchantment and international flair come together in perfect harmony? The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is an annual celebration that transforms this iconic theme park into a winter wonderland filled with cultural traditions, delicious cuisine, and heartwarming entertainment. In 2023, this magical event kicks off on November 24 and runs through December 30. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect during this enchanting holiday extravaganza.

Holiday Storytellers from Around the World

One of the highlights of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is the opportunity to learn about holiday traditions from various cultures around the world. EPCOT is known for its World Showcase, and during this festive season, each pavilion comes to life with Holiday Storytellers. These are talented performers who share the unique customs, stories, and songs that define their respective countries' holiday celebrations.

As you stroll around the World Showcase, you can encounter these storytellers and listen to their fascinating tales. From the heartwarming story of La Befana in Italy to the lively Hanukkah traditions in the American Adventure pavilion, there's a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be discovered. These cultural presentations provide not only entertainment but also education, allowing you to gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse traditions that make up our world.

Candlelight Processional

The Candlelight Processional is an iconic part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, and it's not to be missed. This stunning performance takes place at the America Gardens Theatre and combines a massive choir, a full orchestra, and a celebrity narrator to retell the story of Christmas in a truly breathtaking way.

Each evening, a renowned celebrity narrator takes the stage to recount the biblical tale of the birth of Jesus, accompanied by a choir that can number in the hundreds. The powerful music and narration blend seamlessly, creating a moving and spiritually uplifting experience for all who attend. It's a wonderful opportunity to come together with friends and family and reflect on the true meaning of the holiday season.

According to Disney’s Website, here’s the full list of this year’s celebrity narrators:

• Chrissy Metz (NEW): Nov. 24-25


• Luis Fonsi (NEW): Nov. 26-27


• Ann-Margret (NEW): Nov. 28-29


• Simu Liu: Nov. 30-Dec. 2


• John Stamos: Dec. 3-5


• Neil Patrick Harris: Dec. 6-8


• Marlee Matlin: Dec. 9-11


• Brendan Fraser (NEW): Dec. 12-14


• Eva Longoria (NEW): Dec. 15-16


• Joey McIntyre (NEW): Dec. 17-18


• Sterling K. Brown (NEW): Dec. 19-20


• Jordan Fisher (NEW): Dec. 21-23


• Steven Curtis Chapman: Dec. 24-26


• Audra McDonald (NEW): Dec. 27-28


• Lisa Ling: Dec. 29-30

1. Arrive Early: The festival is popular, so arriving early will give you a head start on the festivities and help you avoid long lines for attractions and food.


2. Use the Festival Passport: The Festival Passport is your guide to everything happening during the event. It includes a map, a list of holiday storytellers, and details about the special food and beverage offerings.


3. Plan Your Meals: With so many delicious options, it's a good idea to plan your meals in advance to ensure you get to try all the dishes you're interested in.


4. Stay Hydrated: Florida can be warm even during the holiday season, so don't forget to stay hydrated. You can find water stations throughout the park.


5. Check the Entertainment Schedule: Be sure to check the schedule for live performances and the Candlelight Processional so you can plan your day accordingly.


6. Take Your Time: The festival is a sensory delight, so take your time to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season.

In a galaxy not so far away, Disney has brought the epic Star Wars saga to life in the form of two immersive theme park lands: Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and Disney's Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida. These meticulously crafted experiences allow visitors to step into the Star Wars universe, building their own lightsabers, piloting the Millennium Falcon, and rubbing shoulders with smugglers and stormtroopers. In this deep dive guide, we will explore the intricacies of both Disneyland's and Disney World's Galaxy's Edge, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Galaxy's Edge Overview

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge was a massive undertaking for Disney, as it aimed to create an immersive, authentic Star Wars experience for fans and parkgoers alike. Both locations, Disneyland and Disney World, opened their respective Galaxy's Edge lands in 2019.

The lands are set on the remote planet of Batuu, a thriving outpost at the crossroads of the galaxy's farthest reaches. Batuu is designed to be a location on the outer rim, free from the influence of the First Order or the Rebel Alliance, allowing visitors to engage with the world of Star Wars outside the constraints of existing storylines. This approach gives Disney the creative freedom to craft a unique and dynamic Star Wars narrative.

The Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run

One of the highlights of Galaxy's Edge is the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run attraction. Located at both Disneyland and Disney World, this ride allows guests to step aboard the iconic Millennium Falcon and take on roles as pilot, gunner, or engineer in an interactive smuggling mission.

Similarities:

• The ride experience is nearly identical at both locations, with a life-sized Millennium Falcon as the centerpiece.


• Guests can enjoy the thrill of piloting the ship, shooting blasters, and repairing the ship's systems.


• The level of detail in the Falcon's interior is mind-boggling, providing an immersive experience.

• Disneyland's version features a single entrance, while Disney World has three entrances, allowing for more efficient guest flow.


• The queue at Disney World is primarily indoors, offering respite from the Florida heat.


• The queue at Disneyland offers scenic outdoor views, but is primarily indoors as well.

• The experience is remarkably similar at both Disneyland and Disney World.


• Guests can choose from four distinct themes for their lightsaber: Peace and Justice, Power and Control, Elemental Nature, or Protection and Defense.


• The process involves selecting a Kyber crystal and assembling the hilt.

• Disneyland's Savi's Workshop can accommodate 14 builders per experience, while Disney World's can accommodate 18.


• The pricing structure may vary slightly between the two parks.

• The droid-building experience is nearly identical at both locations.


• Guests can choose between an R-series or BB-series astromech and customize its appearance with various parts and accessories.


• The finished droid interacts with its surroundings in the land and other droids.

• The cost of building a droid may vary slightly between the two parks.


• The queue and waiting area might differ in layout and aesthetics.

• Iconic Star Wars beverages like Blue Milk and Green Milk are available at both locations.


• Oga's Cantina, the notorious watering hole, can be found in both lands, offering a unique atmosphere and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.


• The menus at quick-service and sit-down dining locations have a consistent Star Wars theme.

• The layout and capacity of dining locations may vary between Disneyland and Disney World.


• The availability of dining reservations and mobile ordering may differ.

• You can encounter characters like The Mandalorian, Rey, Chewbacca, and Kylo Ren in both lands.


• Stormtroopers patrol the area, providing unexpected interactions and creating an authentic Star Wars atmosphere.

• The specific characters you encounter and the timing of these interactions may vary.


• Some minor variations in character interactions can be found, depending on the day and location.

• You can find similar merchandise in both locations, including clothing, toys, collectibles, and custom droid parts.


• The marketplace-style shopping experience is consistent across both parks.

• The layout and theming of shops may vary slightly between the two locations.


• Availability of some merchandise, especially limited-edition items, may differ.

• The ride experience is expected to be nearly identical at both locations, offering an immersive and groundbreaking Star Wars adventure.


• Both rides will feature life-sized AT-AT walkers, an encounter with Kylo Ren, and other iconic Star Wars elements.

The sparkle in a child's eye at their first sight of Cinderella's Castle, the thrill of hurtling down Space Mountain, the joy of meeting beloved characters – a trip to Disney is packed with magical moments that are genuinely priceless. However, while the experiences are invaluable, there's no escaping the fact that a Disney vacation does come with a tangible price tag. Here's a guide to help you navigate budgeting for your Disney adventure and sprinkle some savings into the mix!

Potential Costs Breakdown

1. Park Tickets:
   
   
   
   • Single-Day Tickets: Prices can vary based on the specific park and time of year, with peak times being more expensive.
   
   
   • Multi-Day Tickets: These usually offer savings per day, especially the more days you commit.
   
   
   • Park Hopper Option: This allows you to visit multiple parks in a single day, but it adds to the ticket price.
   
   
   
   


2. Accommodations:
   
   
   
   • On-Site Disney Resorts: Options range from value resorts to deluxe villas. Between Disneyland and Disney World there are differences as well. Staying on-site comes with perks like early park access, but generally at a premium price.
   
   
   • Off-Site Hotels: These can be more budget-friendly and still close to the parks.
   
   
   
   


3. Food & Dining:
   
   
   
   • Dining Plans: Disney World is bringing back their dining plans in 2024, allowing you to prepay for meals, which can save money.
   
   
   • Out-of-Pocket: From sit-down restaurants to snack stands, food costs can add up quickly.
   
   
   
   


4. Transportation:
   
   
   
   • Flights: Depending on where you're coming from, airfare can be a significant cost.
   
   
   • Rental Cars/Parking: Consider car rentals, gas, and parking fees if you're not relying on Disney transportation.
   
   
   
   


5. Extras:
   
   
   
   • Special Events: Events like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party require separate tickets.
   
   
   • Tours and Experiences: Behind-the-scenes tours and other experiences come with additional fees.
   
   
   
   

1. Travel Off-Peak: Visit during less popular times (typically when schools are in session) for lower prices on both tickets and accommodations.


2. Use Points and Miles: Use credit card rewards, airline miles, or hotel loyalty points to offset the cost of flights or accommodations.


3. Pack Snacks: Bring some snacks into the parks. While Disney has delicious options, packing your own can save a considerable amount.


4. Limit Souvenirs: Set a souvenir budget or decide in advance what you'll purchase. Consider giving kids a set amount to spend.


5. Book Packages: Disney offers packages that bundle tickets, accommodations, and food, which can lead to savings.


6. Skip Park Hopper: If it's your first visit, there's plenty to see in each park. Sticking to one park per day can save money.


7. Free Activities: Enjoy free activities like resort hopping, watching the Electrical Water Pageant, or exploring Disney Springs in Disney World and Downtown Disney in Disneyland.


8. Stay Off-Site with Kitchen Facilities: Cooking some of your meals can lead to significant savings.


9. Drink Water: Instead of constantly buying drinks, ask for free ice water at any quick-service restaurant.


10. Military and Other Discounts: Disney offers discounts for military members, Florida residents, and other groups. Always check eligibility.


11. Use Disney Gift Cards: Purchase discounted Disney gift cards at select retailers, which can be used for tickets, food, and merchandise.