Christmas Around World Showcase at Epcot
Father Christmas at UK Pavilion
One can celebrate Christmas around World Showcase walking from land to land. Holidays Around the World at Epcot is our favorite Yuletide event. Stroll around World Showcase and listen to storytellers as in each land the holiday traditions of the respective country is explained. It is the perfect time to introduce young children to the park.
In Canada, the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs takes guest on a musical tour exploring the seasonal customs of our neighbor to the north. At the United Kingdom Pavilion, Father Christmas tells of his country’s holiday customs.
Julenissen at Norway Pavilion
Santa and Mrs. Claus are on hand for a meet and greet at the American Adventure pavilion. It is a perfect setting for your official Christmas card.
The American Pavilion offers wonderful, interactive Kwanzaa and Hanukkah storytelling throughout the day and an absolute must is a concert by the Voices of Liberty dressed in costumes reminiscent of a Victorian Christmas.
France is the home of Pere Noel, and in Morocco, a storyteller explains holiday traditions and festivals.
In Japan, the Daruma Seller talks about how Japanese celebrate the New Year. Did you know that Daruma dolls are symbols of the New Year and are said to bring good luck? Visit China to witness the Chinese Lion Dance.
In Norway, meet the Christmas elf Julenissen, who represents simplicity and peace. In Italy, meet La Befana, the good witch who brings gifts to children on Epiphany. Her performance is simply amazing and one of our favorites.
Helga and the Nutcracker
At the German pavilion Helga welcomes visitors throughout the afternoon telling the origins of the first Christmas tree, the advent calendar and how the nutcracker became a staple in homes worldwide. She is funny and witty. Don’t miss a picture opportunity with her and a giant nutcracker at the end of her tale.
In Mexico, guests will be able to experience “Fiesta de Navidad” complete with dancers and mariachis.
Take some time to enjoy Joyful! – A Gospel Celebration of the Season which is performed several times throughout the afternoon on Fountain Stage.
And there is of course more! The Candlelight Processional, featuring a celebrity narrator accompanied by a live choir and a full orchestra is an absolute must when visiting Epcot during the Holiday Season. The concert is free of charge and takes place three times a day at the America Gardens Theater. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, the nightly fireworks, water and laser show is enhanced with a holiday theme and a perfect ending for a magical day.
And here are some gourmet suggestions on how to make it through the day: Christmas Stollen, a holiday fruitcake from Germany, a chocolate Christmas log or gingerbread ice cream at the France pavilion, Sweet Tamales from Mexico and hot-spiced wine!
For more information and pictures of live entertainment in the parks check out The Unofficial Guide Color Companion to Walt Disney World by Bob Sehlinger and Len Testa, which proves that a picture is indeed worth a thousand words.
