We will not be going to Walt Disney World for any of the Christmas season this year but plan to be back next year. It is one of our favorite times to visit, the weather is usually pleasant, the crowds are moderate (except for Christmas week), and the resort is decked out in it’s holiday finest. There is a variety of special activities just for the holidays, you can go each year and find something new or go back and start new traditions with your family. Here is my must do not to be missed holiday happenings a Walt Disney World.

Photopass. You can use Photopass services anytime of the year at Walt Disney World, it’s a great way to get photos of your whole family and not have to lug around your camera and wait for a great shot. During the holidays Photopass is an even better deal. Disney puts out extra photographers at the resorts to catch the photos with the elaborate décor as a backdrop, sends a few to Downtown Disney to catch the atmosphere there, and over to Osborne Lights in Hollywood Studios. This is a great time to grab a photo to put in next years Christmas card.

Candlelight Processional. As part of the Holidays Around the World celebration Epcot host the Candlelight Processional show in the American Gardens theater nightly. The musical performance is put on by a mass choir accompanied by a full orchestra performing classic songs and hymns of the Christmas season. A celebrity narrator tells the biblical tale of a Savior born in Bethlehem. The story is intertwined with be with the orchestra, choice and special singing by members of the American Pavilion’s Voices of Liberty. One of my favorite parts of the show is watching the American Sign Language interpreter translate the performance. It is a beautiful peaceful site and touch to see all kinds of guest be able to enjoy this Christmas event together. There are 3 shows held most nights at 5:00pm, 6:45pm, and 8:15pm. The event is very popular and can fill up fast.

Gingerbread Mickeys. Although you can enjoy the best Gingerbread Mickeys in the world all year round at Walt Disney World, there is something extra special about them during the holiday season. This is my favorite treat in all of WDW and I always grab several to take back home with me. You can pick them up at the Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom, Goofy’s Candy Co in Downtown Disney and many bake shops throughout the World.

Resort Décor. From a grand life sized Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian to a chocolate carousel at the Beach Club the deluxe resorts are decked out in their holiday themes. While they are all worth a peek our favorites are Grand Floridian, Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Boardwalk Inn. Plan a little time out of the parks to tour the different resorts and get some ideas for your own decorations at home.

Traditional Holiday Dinner. While you may not actually visit Walt Disney World on Christmas Day you can still enjoy a traditional American holiday dinner anytime. Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom serves up this family style meal year round. There is roast turkey, ham, dressing, green beans, mac and cheese and an apple crisp dessert. This restaurant will remind you of holiday meals shared with your family.