Guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort currently can experience EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays. At this celebration, they can get a chance to see how different cultures celebrate the different holidays that are being celebrated at this time of year. All around World Showcase there are different stories shared that give a deeper look at the holidays that are celebrated around the world. Below is a look at the different cultural stories and traditions that are found around the different areas of the world represented at EPCOT.
Mexico Pavilion – Las Posadas Celebration
Las Posadas, a beloved Mexican tradition celebrated annually between December 16th and 24th, is a vibrant and heartwarming journey that commemorates the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem in search of a safe haven for the birth of Jesus.
A Celebration Steeped in History:
Though the exact origin of Las Posadas remains a mystery, its roots intertwine with Spanish and indigenous traditions. The Spanish introduced the concept of “posadas” or shelters to Mesoamerica as a way to evangelize and integrate Christian narratives with existing beliefs.
Over time, the celebration evolved, incorporating elements of indigenous rituals like processions, prayers, and offerings, resulting in the unique blend of faith and festivity that defines Las Posadas today.
The Ritual of Seeking Shelter:
Las Posadas unfolds through a nightly ritual. Groups of people, often neighbors and families, gather to sing traditional songs called “villancicos.” These songs narrate Joseph and Mary’s journey and their pleas for shelter at various inns.
The Symbolic Procession:
The heart of the celebration lies in the procession. Led by two individuals representing Joseph and Mary, the group carries candles and lanterns, symbolizing the Holy Family’s search for light and hope.
They visit designated houses, each representing an inn that turned them away. At each house, the procession sings the villancicos, requesting “posada” (shelter). Eventually, they are welcomed inside one of the houses, symbolizing the kindness and generosity offered to the Holy Family.
A Celebration of Community and Faith:
Once welcomed inside, the participants enjoy traditional foods like hot chocolate, tamales, and bunuelos. They also sing carols, share stories, and pray together, strengthening their bonds and celebrating the spirit of the season.
The Joy of Breaking the Piñata:
The celebration culminates with the breaking of a piñata, shaped like a seven-pointed star, symbolizing the seven deadly sins. The piñata is filled with candies and fruits, representing the rewards of overcoming temptation and embracing faith.
Blindfolded participants take turns hitting the piñata with a stick, and when it finally breaks, the treats spill out, creating a joyous moment of laughter and sharing.
Beyond Tradition:
Las Posadas transcends its religious significance. It serves as a powerful symbol of community, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. It reminds us of the importance of hospitality, generosity, and the joy of celebrating togetherness during the holiday season.
Today, Las Posadas celebrations continue to thrive throughout Mexico and Mexican communities worldwide. It serves as a reminder of cultural heritage, faith, and the enduring spirit of hope and joy that the holiday season brings.
Norway Pavilion – A Mischievous Magical Barn Santa
Deep within the snowy landscapes of Norway, hidden amongst the barns and stables, resides a magical creature known as the Fjøsnisse. This mischievous, yet benevolent being, plays a unique role in Norwegian Christmas traditions.
Unlike the jolly, red-clad Santa of other cultures, the Fjøsnisse is a small, gnome-like creature with a pointed hat and a mischievous glint in his eye. He is said to reside within the barns of farmsteads, taking care of the animals and ensuring their well-being.
A Trickster with a Heart of Gold:
While the Fjøsnisse might be known for his playful tricks, such as hiding tools or braiding the manes and tails of horses, he also possesses a generous and caring nature. He rewards hard-working farmers and their families with gifts and blessings throughout the year.
During the Christmas season, the Fjøsnisse’s activities reach their peak. He helps prepare the farm for the holidays, ensuring the animals are well-fed and comfortable. He also leaves small gifts for the children of the household, often hidden in barn stalls or amongst the hay.
A Legacy of Tradition:
The Fjøsnisse tradition is deeply rooted in Norwegian folklore and mythology. It serves as a reminder of the importance of caring for animals and respecting nature. It also emphasizes the values of hard work, family, and the joy of giving during the holiday season.
Today, the Fjøsnisse remains a beloved figure in Norwegian culture. He is celebrated through stories, songs, and even a special show at the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays at Walt Disney World.
Embracing the Spirit:
The Fjøsnisse’s playful spirit and generosity inspire us to embrace the true meaning of Christmas: kindness, compassion, and the joy of sharing with others. His story reminds us to appreciate the simple things in life and find magic in everyday moments, even within the heart of a humble barn.
Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the Fjøsnisse’s story offers valuable lessons that resonate with us all. It encourages us to be kind to others, grateful for what we have, and embrace the wonder and joy that life has to offer.
Additional Notes:
- The Fjøsnisse is not to be confused with Santa Claus. While both bring gifts, the Fjøsnisse specifically focuses on farm animals and the children of the farm family.
- The tradition of the Fjøsnisse is still practiced in many parts of Norway today, especially in rural areas.
- The Fjøsnisse is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the holiday season.
China Pavilion – Chinese Lion Dancer
The Chinese Lion Dance is a vibrant and energetic tradition deeply intertwined with the joyous spirit of Lunar New Year. Its origins date back centuries, with roots in ancient Chinese mythology and beliefs.
Mythology and Symbolism:
The lion, revered for its strength, courage, and power, is an auspicious symbol in Chinese culture. It represents warding off evil spirits, bringing good fortune, and ushering in prosperity.
Legends tell of a mythical beast called Nian who terrorized villages during the Lunar New Year. To ward off Nian, villagers created a costume resembling a lion with large eyes and a loud roar. The creature was so frightened by the lion’s appearance and sounds that it fled, never to return. This legend gave rise to the tradition of lion dancing during Lunar New Year celebrations.
The Dance:
The lion dance is performed by a troupe of skilled dancers, typically two or more, who manipulate a costume made from silk, brocade, and other rich fabrics. The head of the lion can be quite elaborate, featuring large eyes, long flowing hair, and a movable jaw.
The dance involves intricate movements and acrobatics, mimicking the powerful and graceful movements of the lion. The dancers coordinate their actions to create a vibrant and captivating performance, often accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums, gongs, and cymbals.
Significance During Lunar New Year:
Lion dance performances are a highlight of Lunar New Year celebrations. They are believed to:
- Ward off evil spirits and bad luck: The powerful roar and energetic movements of the lion are believed to scare away any negativity that may linger from the past year.
- Bring good fortune and prosperity: The auspicious symbol of the lion signifies blessings of wealth, happiness, and success for the coming year.
- Unite the community: The shared experience of watching and enjoying the lion dance strengthens bonds within communities and fosters a sense of togetherness.
Performances and Traditions:
Lion dance troupes perform at various locations during Lunar New Year festivities, including temples, businesses, homes, and public squares. The performances are often accompanied by offerings of red envelopes containing money, which symbolize good luck and wishes for prosperity.
In some traditions, the lion interacts with members of the audience, “eating” lettuce offered in a red envelope to symbolize the consumption of wealth and fortune. The lion may also “wake up” with the loud clanging of cymbals, symbolizing the start of a new year filled with blessings and joy.
More than a Dance:
The Chinese Lion Dance is more than just a vibrant spectacle; it’s a cultural expression deeply rooted in tradition and belief. It represents the hope for a prosperous and joyful year, reminding us of the importance of community, resilience, and the pursuit of good fortune. As the lion leaps and roars through the streets, it carries with it the wishes and aspirations of generations, uniting communities in a celebration of the Lunar New Year.
Italy Pavilion – La Befana
La Befana is a beloved figure in Italian folklore, known for her annual gift-giving on the eve of Epiphany (January 5th). But unlike Santa Claus, La Befana isn’t jolly and red-suited. She’s a wrinkled old woman, often depicted riding a broomstick and adorned with a shawl and pointed hat.
The Origins of La Befana:
La Befana’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with various legends surrounding her. Some connect her to the ancient Roman goddess Strenia, who presided over the New Year. Others link her to the pre-Christian folktale of a kind woman who offered hospitality to the Three Wise Men on their journey to Bethlehem.
But the most popular legend tells of La Befana as a simple woman who, on the night of Jesus’ birth, saw a bright light in the sky. Believing it to be a sign, she packed a basket of gifts and set out to find the newborn king.
However, she lost her way and never found him. Filled with regret, she vowed to continue her search, offering gifts to every child she encountered along the way. And so, La Befana became the gift-bringer, bringing joy and blessings to children on the eve of Epiphany.
The Traditions of La Befana:
On January 5th, Italian children hang stockings by the fireplace, hoping for sweets and small gifts. If they’ve been good, they’ll find their stockings filled with goodies like candy, chocolates, toys, and mandarins. But naughty children might find a lump of coal or dark candy, a gentle reminder to be good in the coming year.
Besides gifts, La Befana also cleanses houses, sweeping away the bad luck and negativity of the past year. This symbolic act prepares homes for a fresh start in the new year, aligning with the spirit of Epiphany, which celebrates the manifestation of Jesus to the world.
A Celebration of Kindness and Renewal:
La Befana is more than just a gift-giver; she represents the spirit of generosity, kindness, and the hope for a better future. She reminds us to be compassionate, to give without expecting anything in return, and to embrace the new year with open hearts and optimism.
While Santa Claus may dominate Christmas celebrations worldwide, La Befana’s unique story and traditions continue to hold a special place in Italian hearts. She serves as a powerful symbol of renewal, reminding us of the importance of letting go of the past and embracing the possibilities that lie ahead.
Additional Notes:
- La Befana is often depicted wearing a black shawl and a pointed hat, similar to a witch. However, her image is not meant to be scary, but rather wise and benevolent.
- The Feast of the Epiphany is a significant religious holiday in Italy, commemorating the arrival of the Three Magi and the revelation of Jesus to the world.
- La Befana’s story teaches valuable lessons about generosity, kindness, and the importance of new beginnings.
Japan Pavilion – Daruma Storyteller
The Daruma Storyteller is a captivating tradition performed during the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays at Walt Disney World. This unique cultural experience immerses guests in the spirit of Japanese New Year’s celebrations, weaving together storytelling, folklore, and the iconic Daruma doll.
The Significance of the Daruma Doll:
The Daruma doll, a round, red figure with no limbs and a blank expression, is a revered symbol in Japanese culture. It represents perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of goals. The unpainted eyes symbolize the journey ahead, while the blank expression allows individuals to project their own aspirations onto the doll.
Bringing the Daruma to Life:
The Daruma Storyteller brings the doll’s powerful message to life through engaging storytelling. Dressed in traditional Japanese attire, the storyteller weaves tales of folklore and legends, highlighting the importance of perseverance and hope. The stories often feature characters who overcome challenges and achieve their goals, inspiring the audience with their resilience and determination.
Interacting with the Daruma:
The storytelling experience is interactive, inviting audience participation. Guests are encouraged to purchase Daruma dolls and make wishes for the coming year. They then fill in one eye of the doll, symbolizing their commitment to their goals. Once their wish is fulfilled, they fill in the other eye, completing the Daruma and celebrating their achievement.
The Power of the Storyteller:
The Daruma Storyteller is more than just a performance; it’s a cultural exchange that fosters understanding and appreciation for Japanese traditions. The storyteller’s captivating presence, combined with the powerful symbolism of the Daruma doll, creates a lasting impression on audiences, inspiring them to face challenges with courage and optimism.
The Timeless Message:
The story of the Daruma doll and the message it conveys resonate across cultures and ages. Its timeless message of perseverance and hope serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can achieve our goals through hard work and determination.
Beyond Epcot:
While the Daruma Storyteller is a highlight of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, the lessons it teaches remain relevant throughout the year. The tradition serves as a constant source of inspiration, encouraging us to set goals, overcome obstacles, and embrace the journey of life with unwavering hope.
Additional Notes:
- The Daruma Storyteller performance often incorporates traditional Japanese music and instruments, adding to the immersive experience.
- Guests can purchase various Daruma dolls and other souvenirs at the Japan pavilion during the festival.
- The Daruma Storyteller tradition serves as a bridge between cultures, promoting understanding and appreciation for Japanese customs and beliefs.
Overall, the Daruma Storyteller offers a captivating and meaningful experience that goes beyond mere entertainment. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, hope, and the pursuit of dreams, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.
Between the Morocco and France Pavilions – Hanukkah Storyteller
A storyteller recounts traveling abroad to explore the diverse music and traditions of Hanukkah around the world. Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a joyous eight-day Jewish festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt in the 2nd century BCE.
The Struggle for Freedom:
The Maccabean Revolt was led by Judah Maccabee and his brothers against the oppressive rule of the Seleucid Empire, led by King Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who forced the Jewish people to abandon their religion and adopt Greek customs.
In 168 BCE, Antiochus desecrated the Second Temple, the holiest site in Judaism, by sacrificing a pig on the altar and banning Jewish practices. This act ignited a fierce rebellion against the Seleucid rule.
The Miraculous Oil:
After a three-year struggle, the Maccabees successfully recaptured the Temple in 165 BCE. However, upon entering the Temple, they found it desecrated and its oil supply for the menorah, the sacred lamp, significantly polluted.
According to tradition, they only found enough pure oil to last for one day. Miraculously, the lamp continued to burn for eight days, giving them enough time to prepare new consecrated oil. This miracle lies at the heart of the Hanukkah celebration.
Eight Days of Celebration:
Hanukkah begins on the 25th day of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar, which usually falls in December. During the eight days of the festival, families gather to light the menorah, adding one candle each night.
Traditional foods like latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) are enjoyed. Children play with dreidels, four-sided spinning tops with Hebrew letters, and families exchange gifts.
A Symbol of Hope and Freedom:
Hanukkah is more than just a celebration of a historical victory; it’s a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of oppression. The burning light of the menorah represents the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.
Celebrating Hanukkah Today:
Today, Hanukkah continues to be a cherished tradition for Jewish communities around the world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for freedom, preserving traditions, and celebrating the miracles that can occur even in the darkest of times.
Beyond the religious significance, Hanukkah also offers universal lessons about courage, perseverance, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. It is a message that resonates with people of all faiths and backgrounds, making Hanukkah a celebration of hope and unity for the entire world.
Additional Notes:
- Hanukkah traditions vary across different Jewish communities.
- Special prayers and songs are sung during the Hanukkah celebration.
- Hanukkah serves as a reminder of the importance of family, community, and faith.
Through the story of Hanukkah, we are reminded that even a small flame of hope can overcome great darkness, and that the human spirit of resilience can shine even in the face of adversity.
France Pavilion – Père Noël
Père Noël, also known as “Father Christmas” or “Papa Noël,” is the beloved gift-bringer in France and other French-speaking regions. Though similar to Santa Claus in many ways, he has his own unique traditions and characteristics.
Origins and Traditions:
Like Santa Claus, Père Noël’s roots can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and kindness. However, Père Noël also draws inspiration from a pre-Christian folktale about a benevolent woman who offered hospitality to the Three Wise Men on their journey to Bethlehem.
Père Noël is typically depicted as a jolly old man with a long white beard, dressed in a red robe and hat. He travels on Christmas Eve in a sleigh pulled by reindeer (or sometimes a donkey) and delivers gifts to children who have been good throughout the year.
Differences from Santa Claus:
While sharing many similarities with Santa Claus, Père Noël has some distinct characteristics:
- Appearance: Père Noël is sometimes shown wearing glasses and a traditional French cap, called a “bonnet rouge.”
- Arrival: He arrives on Christmas Eve, not Christmas Day.
- Gifts: He leaves presents in children’s shoes or clogs, rather than stockings hung by the fireplace.
- Companions: He may be accompanied by Père Fouettard, a figure who punishes naughty children.
Celebrations in France:
French families celebrate Christmas Eve with a traditional Christmas Eve dinner called “le réveillon.” After dinner, children are allowed to open their gifts from Père Noël.
Other Christmas traditions in France include:
- Decorating homes with Christmas trees and lights.
- Attending church services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
- Sharing meals with family and friends.
- Singing carols.
A Symbol of Hope and Generosity:
Père Noël represents the spirit of Christmas in France. He is a symbol of hope, generosity, and the joy of giving. His story reminds us to be kind to others, to give without expecting anything in return, and to embrace the holiday season with open hearts and optimism.
Additional Notes:
- The popularity of Père Noël has grown in recent years, even in some areas where Santa Claus was traditionally the main gift-bringer.
- The story of Père Noël is a reminder of the importance of tradition and cultural heritage.
- He continues to be a beloved figure who brings joy and excitement to children and adults alike during the Christmas season.
United Kingdom Pavilion – Father Christmas
In the United Kingdom, Christmas magic arrives not on a sleigh pulled by reindeer, but on the back of a portly gentleman known as Father Christmas. While often compared to Santa Claus, Father Christmas holds his own unique place in British Christmas traditions.
Origins and Evolution:
Father Christmas’s origins are a blend of history and folklore. He draws inspiration from several sources, including:
- Saint Nicholas: 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, especially toward children.
- Sir Christmas: A figure from Tudor and Stuart times who presided over Christmas festivities in aristocratic households.
- King Frost: A Saxon figure representing winter and the holiday season.
Over time, these influences merged to create the distinct figure we know today. Unlike the American Santa, Father Christmas wears a long, flowing green robe trimmed with white fur and a broad-brimmed hat. He carries a large sack of gifts and is often accompanied by his trusty reindeer.
Traditions and Rituals:
Christmas festivities in the UK begin weeks before the big day. Children write letters to Father Christmas, sharing their wish lists and hopes for the holiday. Families decorate their homes with Christmas trees, lights, and festive ornaments.
On Christmas Eve, children hang stockings or leave their shoes by the fireplace or at the foot of their beds, hoping they will be filled with goodies from Father Christmas. Some families leave out mince pies and a glass of brandy for Father Christmas to enjoy during his visit.
On Christmas morning, children wake up early to discover their presents. Families gather for a traditional Christmas dinner with roast turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. Christmas carols are sung, and games are played.
More Than Just Gifts:
Father Christmas represents more than just a gift-giver. He embodies the spirit of giving, kindness, and joy that is central to the Christmas season. He reminds us to be generous towards others, to embrace the spirit of the holiday, and to cherish the time spent with loved ones.
Cultural Significance:
The story of Father Christmas is a treasured part of British culture. It is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that the magic and traditions of Christmas remain alive. His image is seen in shops, decorations, and even on postage stamps, solidifying his place as a beloved holiday icon.
Beyond the UK:
While deeply rooted in British tradition, Father Christmas has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly those with historical ties to the UK. He serves as a reminder of the shared values of Christmas and the universal spirit of hope and goodwill that this season brings.
Additional Notes:
- Father Christmas is often depicted as a jolly and friendly figure, but some older versions of the character were portrayed as more stern and imposing.
- The name “Father Christmas” is believed to have originated in the 17th century.
- The tradition of leaving mince pies and brandy for Father Christmas is thought to have begun in the Victorian era.
- The story of Father Christmas continues to evolve with each generation, ensuring its relevance and popularity for years to come.
Canada Pavilion – Canadian Holiday Voyageurs
The Canadian Holiday Voyageurs are a group of singers and musicians who perform at the Canada Pavilion in Epcot at Walt Disney World during the Holidays. They perform traditional Canadian folk songs, carols, and holiday music, and they often wear Voyageur-style costumes.
The Voyageurs were fur traders who worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company in the 17th and 18th centuries. They traveled by canoe throughout the Canadian wilderness, and they were known for their singing and storytelling.
The Canadian Holiday Voyageurs were created in 1995, and they have been a popular attraction at Epcot ever since. They are a great way to experience the sights and sounds of a Canadian Christmas.
In addition to their performances at Epcot, the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs have also released two CDs of their music. They have also performed at a number of other events, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Bowl Parade.
The Canadian Holiday Voyageurs are a great example of how Canadian culture can be shared with the world. Their music and performances are a reminder of the beauty and traditions of Canada.
Here are some additional details about the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs:
- The group is made up of six singers and musicians.
- They perform a variety of traditional Canadian folk songs, carols, and holiday music.
- They often wear Voyageur-style costumes, which include red sashes, tuques, and mittens.
- They have been performing at Epcot since 1995.
- They have released two CDs of their music.
- They have also performed at a number of other events, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Bowl Parade.
- They are a great way to experience the sights and sounds of a Canadian Christmas.
The Odyssey Pavilion – Santa Greeting
Santa Claus, the jolly old man in a red suit who delivers presents to children on Christmas Eve, has captured the hearts and imaginations of Americans for generations. But how did this iconic figure come to be, and how has his image evolved over time?
From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus:
The origins of Santa Claus can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop from Myra, Turkey. Saint Nicholas was known for his generosity, particularly towards children, and stories of his good deeds spread throughout Europe.
The Story of Santa Claus in the United States: A Journey of Tradition and Transformation
Santa Claus, the jolly old man in a red suit who delivers presents to children on Christmas Eve, has captured the hearts and imaginations of Americans for generations. But how did this iconic figure come to be, and how has his image evolved over time?
From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus:
The origins of Santa Claus can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop from Myra, Turkey. Saint Nicholas was known for his generosity, particularly towards children, and stories of his good deeds spread throughout Europe.
Over time, Saint Nicholas became associated with Christmas gift-giving, and his image gradually evolved into the Santa Claus we know today. This transformation was influenced by various factors, including:
- Dutch Sinterklaas: The Dutch tradition of Sinterklaas, a gift-giving bishop who arrives on a white horse, had a significant impact on the American Santa Claus.
- Clement Clarke Moore’s poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas”: This poem, also known as “The Night Before Christmas,” published in 1823, further cemented the image of Santa Claus as a jolly, bearded man who delivers gifts on Christmas Eve.
- Thomas Nast’s illustrations: The American cartoonist Thomas Nast is credited with creating the modern image of Santa Claus. His illustrations in Harper’s Weekly magazine in the late 19th century depicted Santa as a plump, cheerful man with a white beard and red suit.
The American Santa Claus:
The American Santa Claus is more than just a gift-giver; he is a cultural icon who embodies the spirit of Christmas. He is seen as a symbol of hope, generosity, and the joy of giving.
Traditions and Customs:
Children in the US eagerly await Santa’s arrival on Christmas Eve. They hang stockings by the fireplace or Christmas tree, hoping to find them filled with presents on Christmas morning. Families decorate their homes with festive lights, ornaments, and Christmas trees. They also bake cookies and leave them out for Santa, along with a glass of milk.
Cultural Impact:
The image of Santa Claus is deeply ingrained in American culture. He appears in countless Christmas movies, TV shows, and commercials. His likeness is used to sell everything from toys to candy canes.
Evolution of Santa Claus:
The American Santa Claus has continued to evolve over time. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Santa has been depicted in various ethnicities and body shapes, reflecting the changing demographics of the US.
The Enduring Legacy of Santa Claus:
Despite the changes, the core message of Santa Claus remains the same: to be kind and generous to others. He is a reminder that the true spirit of Christmas lies not in the gifts we receive, but in the love and joy we share with others.
Additional Notes:
- The Coca-Cola Company played a significant role in popularizing the modern image of Santa Claus through its advertising campaigns in the 20th century.
- The North Pole is often referred to as Santa’s home, although its exact location remains a mystery.
- Santa Claus has become a global icon, recognized and celebrated in many countries around the world.
The story of Santa Claus in the United States is a fascinating one, filled with tradition, transformation, and the enduring spirit of Christmas. He continues to be a beloved figure who brings joy and magic to the holiday season for children and adults alike.
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is celebrated annual at EPCOT. This year it is being celebrated from November 24 through December 30. It allows guests to experience different sights, sounds and flavors from around the world during the holidays. Along with the traditions that are shared above, the Candlelight Processional is offered throughout the season as well. It is a beautiful celebration of the different ways people celebrate this time of year that shouldn’t be missed.
What do you think of Disney Festival of the Holidays? What is your favorite story or tradition that was shared from this annual festival at EPCOT? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
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