The holiday season is one of the most magical times to visit EPCOT, and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is officially returning from November 27 through December 30, 2026.
Included with regular EPCOT admission, this fan-favorite festival celebrates holiday traditions from around the world through festive food, live entertainment, cultural storytellers, seasonal décor, and the beloved Candlelight Processional. Whether you’re visiting for the holiday treats, entertainment, or festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this seasonal celebration.
What Is EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays?
The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays celebrates how different cultures around the world observe the holiday season. Throughout World Showcase, guests can experience festive traditions, seasonal foods and beverages, live performances, and holiday storytelling that highlight celebrations from countries around the globe.
Unlike Disney’s separately ticketed holiday parties, Festival of the Holidays is included with EPCOT park admission, making it one of the most accessible holiday offerings at Walt Disney World.
Holiday Kitchens
One of the biggest draws of the festival is the collection of Holiday Kitchens located throughout the park.
These seasonal food booths feature holiday-inspired dishes, desserts, and beverages representing traditions from around the world. Guests can sample festive favorites ranging from cookies and gingerbread treats to savory international specialties and seasonal beverages. Each marketplace offers unique flavors inspired by the country or region it represents.
Foodies especially love this festival because many menu items are only available during the holiday season.
Holiday Storytellers Around World Showcase
A unique feature of Festival of the Holidays is the collection of Holiday Storytellers found throughout World Showcase.
These performers share the traditions, folklore, and seasonal celebrations of their home countries through entertaining and educational presentations. Guests may encounter holiday figures and storytellers sharing stories from nations including Mexico, Norway, Italy, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Many Disney fans consider the storytellers one of the festival’s most underrated experiences because they offer a deeper look into how holidays are celebrated around the world.
Candlelight Processional
For many guests, the Candlelight Processional is the highlight of the entire festival.
Held nightly at the America Gardens Theatre, this beloved holiday tradition features a celebrity narrator retelling the Christmas story accompanied by a mass choir, a live orchestra, herald trumpets, and the renowned Voices of Liberty. The result is a moving holiday performance that has become a must-see EPCOT tradition.
The Candlelight Processional typically offers multiple performances each evening, and dining packages are often available for guests who want guaranteed seating. Celebrity narrators for the 2026 festival are expected to be announced closer to the event.
Holiday Entertainment
In addition to the Candlelight Processional and storytellers, guests can enjoy a variety of seasonal entertainment throughout EPCOT.
Past festivals have included:
- JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season
- Holiday musical performances
- Voices of the Holidays
- Festive entertainment throughout World Showcase
- Santa Claus appearances and holiday character experiences
- Special holiday décor and seasonal displays throughout the park
The entertainment lineup helps create a festive atmosphere throughout the entire park during the holiday season.
Holiday Treats, Cookies & Seasonal Favorites
Festival of the Holidays is known for its incredible lineup of holiday sweets and seasonal treats.
Guests can typically enjoy:
- Gingerbread creations
- Holiday cookies
- Seasonal cakes and desserts
- Specialty hot chocolate offerings
- Festive beverages
- International holiday-inspired snacks and treats
The popular Holiday Cookie Stroll often returns as well, encouraging guests to sample featured cookies throughout the festival while earning a special completion prize.
More Festival Fun
Beyond the food and entertainment, guests can enjoy:
- Holiday-themed scavenger hunts
- Seasonal merchandise
- Festive photo opportunities
- Holiday décor throughout EPCOT
- Special nighttime ambiance around World Showcase
- Seasonal overlays and decorations at select attractions
Many returning guests consider Festival of the Holidays one of EPCOT’s most charming festivals because it blends food, culture, and holiday traditions into a uniquely Disney experience.
Festival Dates
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays 2026
November 27 – December 30, 2026
The festival runs daily throughout the holiday season and is included with regular EPCOT park admission.
Why You Should Visit
If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation during the holiday season, EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays offers one of the most festive experiences on property. Between the Holiday Kitchens, cultural storytellers, Candlelight Processional, seasonal treats, and holiday entertainment, it’s the perfect way to celebrate traditions from around the world while enjoying the magic of Disney.
Whether you’re a foodie, a Disney holiday enthusiast, or simply looking for a festive day at EPCOT, Festival of the Holidays is a holiday tradition worth experiencing.
