Disney is great at almost everything, but one thing they do better than anyone else is the holidays. My favorite part of Christmas time at Disney is the World Showcase in Epcot. Cast members share different traditions from the countries they represent. You can even see Santa and Mrs. Claus from right after Thanksgiving to December 24 in the American Adventure Pavilion.
Here are a few of the traditions you will hear about throughout the World Showcase.
- Mexico – Mariachis and dancers add excitement to the fiesta
- Norway – Here we learn about Julenissen and the Christmas Gnome
- China – cast members present the Chinese Lion Dance that brings good fortune during all major celebrations
- Germany – Cast members share the story of the first Christmas Tree and the nutcracker
- Italy – Cast members share the tradition of La Befana who arrives in homes on the eve of the epiphany
- American Adventure – Santa and Mrs. Claus, Christmas Caroling by the Voices of Liberty, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa traditions are all present.
- Japan – Cast members explain the Daruma Doll and other Japanese customs
- Morocco – Cast members add some “spice” to the holiday
- France – Be introduced to the magic of Père Noël
- United Kingdom – stories from 15th century England and Father Christmas are told
- Canada – Canadian Holiday Voyageurs present a musical tour through Canadian traditions
In addition to all these presentations, the Candlelight Processional is held each evening. During the Processional, a celebrity narrator recounts the birth of a Savior born to a virgin in Bethlehem while a beautiful mass choir performs. It truly is a wonderful presentation and highlights the season of hope, joy and faith. The best part? All of this is included for free in your admission to Epcot.
For more information, along with schedules of all events, and a list of Candlelight Processional narrators, check out the Holidays Around the World website.
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