The holidays will look a little different at Walt Disney World this year. Though festive decor and other seasonal surprises will still abound, the theme park complex confirmed on Sept. 8 that it would be canceling its main annual event, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, to better safeguard the health and safety of visitors during the coronavirus pandemic. The news shouldn't come as a huge surprise since it comes shortly after Walt Disney World also cancelled its Halloween celebrations [1].
Other events that typically draw in big crowds, namely the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, will also be on hiatus this year. A post shared to the Disney Parks Blog, however, detailed the other holiday experiences still taking place [2], including a motorcade at Hollywood Studios, themed flotillas at Animal Kingdom, pop-up appearances from Santa Claus, and special projection effects on Magic Kingdom's Cinderella Castle. In true form, the festivities will kick off early on Nov. 6, and last through Dec. 30.
"We know these experiences are a cherished part of holiday traditions that will be missed by guests and cast members alike, but we're glad to be able to bring holiday magic in other creative ways," read the blog post. For those planning on visiting Walt Disney World over the holidays or sometime in the near future, read up on the enhanced safety measures and regulations [4] so you can plan accordingly.