Only 1 special event night recommendation

[OHIOVACATIONER]

We are only going to be at Disney for a few days in December. If you could choose 1 special event (preferably night time for lights) which would you choose? Just 2 low key 60+ adults with a casual trip to enjoy the magic of Christmas at Disney. Do you need a ticket for EPCOT to do Candlelight if you make a dining reservation? I see there are 3 times if we eat at 5:00 is that too early to enjoy the show in the dark? I was thinking Animal Kingdom had a special event one year but I cannot find it now. Maybe its no longer. TIA

 

[msmayor]

You would need a park ticket for the Candlelight Processional - it would be for Epcot, and give you the whole day there. The dining package would be extra.

 

[scrappinginontario]

We are only going to be at Disney for a few days in December. If you could choose 1 special event (preferably night time for lights) which would you choose? Just 2 low key 60+ adults with a casual trip to enjoy the magic of Christmas at Disney. Do you need a ticket for EPCOT to do Candlelight if you make a dining reservation? I see there are 3 times if we eat at 5:00 is that too early to enjoy the show in the dark? I was thinking Animal Kingdom had a special event one year but I cannot find it now. Maybe its no longer. TIA

In December it's dark/almost dark by 5:00. Also, if you're eating at 5:00 then your show will be later than that. You do not eat while watching the show. You will dine at the location you book your ADR then attend the show later. You will be advised what time show you are to attend.

 

[focusondisney]

If you book a dining package, you’re actually given a ticket for a specific show. It’s a sticker you put on your shirt to enter the line & theater. There is still a wait in a line before the show, but you’re guaranteed a seat. People with a dining package usually get in line 45- 60 minutes before show time. People without a dining package start to line up early in the day for popular narrators & no one in that line is guaranteed a seat.

Animal Kingdom has the deluxe resort extra hours which is usually at MK the rest of the year. It’s not Christmas specific tho. Maybe that’s what you’re thinking of?

 

[gottalovepluto]

What vibe are you after and how long an experience?

Peaceful, warm holiday vibes- Candlelight Processional (yes, you need a day ticket), approx 40 mins
Christmas, cheerful vibes- MVMCP (no, you don't need a day ticket), party runs 7pm-midnight but the party ticket allows MK park entry starting at 4pm

Grab a CP ADR tonight if you might do that, they're going fast (and already gone for some nights with very popular narrators). I wouldn't hesitate too long on making a final call as MVMCP tickets are also selling out.

I can't comment on Jollywood Nights vibes having not done it, JN is the pick for those who love M&Gs with unique characters.

 

[jazzsmith]

I’d definitely recommend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. The festive lights, parades, and shows create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying the holiday spirit. The Candlelight Processional at EPCOT is also a beautiful option, and you do need a valid park ticket along with a dining reservation for the package. Eating at 5:00 can work, but it’s worth checking show times to see if that fits with the nighttime lights. SeatGeek reviews can sometimes give you tips about ticket availability and event details. Disney at Christmas is a special experience, so any choice will add magic to your trip!

 

[LynnTH]

Before deciding, I would look at the days you are going and see if there is any Candlelight Processional dining packages even left for that day. The day we are going - they are already sold out of all the dining packages. ( I booked right when they opened up yesterday morning).

 

[MyNameIsSonnyEclipse]

If you're looking for something non-park (and are a bit adventurous), I can't recommend Animal Kingdom Lodge enough. It's quiet, with a touch of real Disney magic. Dinner at Jiko, followed by the Starlight Safari? Perfect.

 

[OHIOVACATIONER]

If you're looking for something non-park (and are a bit adventurous), I can't recommend Animal Kingdom Lodge enough. It's quiet, with a touch of real Disney magic. Dinner at Jiko, followed by the Starlight Safari? Perfect.

That sounds fun. Do you need a ticket to animal kingdom to do the safari?

 

[MyNameIsSonnyEclipse]

That sounds fun. Do you need a ticket to animal kingdom to do the safari?

Nope! It's actually located at the Lodge itself, so no need to travel from dinner or have any other tickets. You tour the savannahs at the Lodge. My wife and I did it for our honeymoon 2 years ago and had a blast. Night vision monocles, small groups, knowledgable guide. We were staying at a savannah view room during our trip and still learned a lot.

Loved the whole AKL experience so much we're just about to close on a DVC resale purchase. Happy to answer anything more about it!