An Aesthetic Guide to Disney During the Holidays
When the holidays arrive at Disney, the parks transform into a nostalgic wonderland filled with shimmering lights, peppermint treats, and the coziest atmosphere you can imagine. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for your annual festive trip, this guide will help you experience Disney’s holiday magic in the most aesthetic, curated way possible.
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🎠 Rides to Ride 🎠
From Top Left: Haunted Mansion Holiday, Jingle Cruise, “it’s a small world” Holiday, Radiator Springs
Some attractions stay the same year-round, but others become extra enchanting during the holiday season. These are the must-ride, must-photograph, must-experience moments:
Haunted Mansion Holiday (Disneyland): A full ride overlay inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas. Think whimsical holiday chaos, gingerbread scents, and iconic Jack Skellington magic. A total vibe shift.
“it’s a small world” Holiday (Disneyland): Twinkling lights, festive music from around the world, and an overall glow that looks straight out of a storybook. An aesthetic dream inside and out.
Jingle Cruise (Magic Kingdom): A holiday twist on the Jungle Cruise with themed jokes and festive decor scattered throughout the ride.
Radiator Springs Racers (DCA): Cars Land transforms into a nostalgic vintage Christmas town, and this ride becomes even more photogenic than usual.
Pro Tip: Some of the best experiences at Disney during the holidays are the parades and shows—so save plenty of time to enjoy those extras outside of just riding rides.
🥧 Disney Park Food to Try 🥧
Holiday snacks are half the fun of visiting during this season. Disney goes ALL OUT with whimsical, pastel, peppermint, and candy-cane-striped everything.
From Top Left: Mickey Gingerbread, Toffee Pretzel, Seasonal Churros, Holiday Punch
Some aesthetic treats to put on your list:
Mickey Gingerbread A must-try soft gingerbread Mickey cookie—these go fast so be sure to mobile order first thing in the morning.
Toffee Pretzel Pretzel filled with cream cheese and coated in toffee sugar.
Seasonal Churros A classic churro, but make it seasonal with various flavors and dipping sauces available this time of year!
Candy Cane Shake Vanilla or chocolate peppermint shake topped with whipped cream, peppermint pieces, and a cherry.
Holiday Punch Pomegranate, cranberry, and orange juices mixed with Sprite, garnished with cranberries, orange wedge, and a sprig of rosemary.
🍿Disney Movies to Watch 🍿
From Top Left: The Muppets Christmas Carol, The Santa Clause, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, The Nightmare Before Christmas
Set the holiday vibe before your trip or keep the magic going once you’re home. These films pair perfectly with hot cocoa, twinkle lights, and the cozy Disney ambiance of the season.
The Muppets Christmas Carol – A warm, whimsical, musical retelling of the classic story — filled with charm, nostalgia, and that unmistakable Muppets humor. The vibes? Immaculate.
The Santa Clause – A 90s Christmas classic that feels like childhood in movie form. Snowy rooftops, North Pole magic, and pure holiday coziness.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas / Twice Upon a Christmas – Short, sweet, and full of nostalgic Disney holiday magic.
The Nightmare Before Christmas – Ideal for setting the mood for Haunted Mansion Holiday, or for those who love a slightly spooky twist on the season.
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🎶 Songs to Listen To 🎶
Queue these on the way to the parks or while getting ready in the morning for a dreamy holiday mood.
“Once Upon a December” – Anastasia
“When We’re Together” – Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
“What’s This?” – The Nightmare Before Christmas
“Spirit of the Season” – Polar Express — not Disney, but perfect
“Let It Go” – Holiday Remix
“One More Sleep ‘til Christmas” – Muppets Christmas Carol
“It Feels Like Christmas” – Muppets Christmas Carol
“Ring in the Season” – Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
“That Time of Year” – Olaf’s Frozen Adventure
🎄Pro Tips for Disney During the Holidays🎄
🕰️ Arrive Early (or Stay Late) Holiday crowds can be intense. Early morning and late night give you quieter walkways + dreamy lighting.
🧥 Bring Layers Disney holiday weather = warm afternoons + chilly evenings. Cardigans, fleece, and scarves also look very aesthetic in photos.
🥨 Mobile Order Everything You Can Snacks are extremely popular this time of year. Skip the long lines so you can spend more time exploring.
Disney during the holidays is pure magic — glowing lights, peppermint scents, whimsical overlays, cozy treats, and a nostalgic, storybook atmosphere from the moment you walk in. Whether you're capturing dreamy content, seeking the coziest snacks, or simply embracing the festive ambiance, the holidays turn the parks into something truly unforgettable.
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