A Wonderful Christmastime

URAYASU CITY, JAPAN - NOVEMBER 07: Disney charactors perform in the parade during the first day of t...
Katsumi KASAHARA/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images

9 Tips For Visiting Disney At Christmastime

Because the most magical place on earth can get a little more magical.

by Samantha Darby

MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Getty Images

From perfect Christmas photo ops to fun, festive eats, there is so much to see and do at the Disney parks during Christmas. But above all, you have to be patient, and plan accordingly. If there’s a ride you have to do, make a plan for it. And then follow these tips.

YOSHIKAZU TSUNO/Gamma-Rapho/Getty Images
Christmas Day is known for being busy.

It’s literally the busiest day of the year in the parks, so please be patient. Know that you’ll wait in line, that there will be lots of crowds, and that you might get overwhelmed.

MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Getty Images
Snag your tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

From dance parties to fireworks and parades, the extra ticket for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is so worth it, but you’ll need to pick them up quickly. It goes through Dec. 22.

MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Getty Images
Get a good spot for the parade.

If you’re at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, make sure to snag a good spot with a hot chocolate for the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. It’s full of your favorite characters in their most festive garb.

Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service/Getty Images
Don’t miss the Jingle Cruise.

During the holidays, the beloved Jungle Cruise ride is updated to be the Jingle Cruise. Don’t miss this festive amusement.

Douglas Sacha/Moment Unreleased/Getty Images
Go to the Epcot Candlelight Processional.

There are different celebrity narrators throughout the season for the Epcot Candlelight Processional during the International Festival of the Holidays, and it’s such a sweet event recounting the story of Christmas, starting in Bethlehem.

MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/MediaNews Group/Getty Images
Holiday Cookie Stroll through the World Showcase.

Stick around in Epcot to do the Holiday Cookie Stroll through the World Showcase during the International Festival of the Holidays. Try five cookies, get your stamps in your festival passport, and turn them in for another treat.

Handout/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Go for a character brunch instead of breakfast.

You don’t want to get stuck inside a restaurant while everyone’s out there getting in line for the rides. Go straight to your favorite rides first, and then go have brunch when the crowds are getting wild. Don’t forget your reservations.

AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images
No, seriously, be patient.

There are so many people who want to see Disney at Christmastime, and you really just have to be mindful of your own expectations and limits. There will be long lines and lots of people, so take it all in stride.