Since The Magic Kingdom first opened its doors in 1971, Walt Disney World Resort has been a pinnacle of wonder and joy in Central Florida. While its parks and destinations are magical year-round, there’s something extra special about the holidays. One place that particularly knows how to pull out all the seasonal stops is Disney Springs. 

This one-of a kind retail, dining and entertainment district pays homage to the waterfront towns in Florida at the turn of the 20^th century thanks to its open-air promenades and stunning lake views. With more than 150 shops and restaurants, spanning from top-name retail brands to celebrity and award-winning chef-helmed eateries to local gems, it’s easy to spend an entire day without experiencing it all—and that’s before you sprinkle in the additional wintertime cheer. 

Starting on Nov. 8, Disney Springs will transform into a holiday haven letting visitors and locals alike get into the spirit of the season. Whether you’re looking to knock out presents for everyone on your nice list or wander around a collection of Christmas trees, there’s a festive air woven throughout its entire premises. Here’s Flamingo’s preview of the holly-est, jolliest things Disney Springs has to offer.

A Spectacular—And Not-So-Chilly—Snowfall 

Do you want to build a snowman? Well, we do live in Florida after all, so making your own Olaf may be out of the question, but you can still play in a glistening wintery mix. Each evening, there are multiple “snowfall” moments to enjoy. The best part? No jacket or mittens required. Lookout for these fun flurries every half hour beginning at sundown around the Town Center Christmas Tree, which is a sight to behold in itself. The forty-five-foot stunner infuses elegance with natural beauty thanks to handcrafted Egyptian lanterns, gems, jewels and succulents adorning its branches. The Town Center is also where you can spy holiday stilt walkers and rollerbladers. 

Very, Merry Menu Additions

There’s no shortage of places to eat and drink within Disney Springs, from Jaleo by José Andrés to Morimoto Asia to Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, making it a favorite place among both local and visiting foodies. Now through December, many of these culinary hotspots will be introducing seasonal sips and bites, from Amorette’s Patisserie’s Christmas Present Petite Cake (a mouth-watering blend of chocolate chiffon, milk chocolate mousse and coconut-pecan filling) to Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar’s O’ Ham ’n’ Cheese Trees (with puff pastry, cheddar cheese, smoked ham, a pepper jack star and creamy tomato sauce). The latter is a popular waterfront family dining destination that transforms into a full-blown holiday bar completely decked out with tinsel, ornaments, twinkling lights and gifts hanging from the ceiling. Their bar also serves up a boozy hot chocolate flight and other craft cocktails like the Lump of Cola and the Tannebaum. If you’d rather get something to munch on as you walk around, swing by The Ganchery for eggnog, gingerbread, peppermint or coquito ganache squares or Swirls on the Water for a peppermint-chocolate swirl cone. 

A Holiday Christmas Tree Stroll 

Scattered throughout the property is the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth. These aren’t your average firs though: Each one has a different theme based off your favorite Walt Disney Studios, Disney Animation, Pixar,  “Star Wars”  and superhero films and shows, ranging from “Coco” to “Toy Story.” Grab a map to find all twenty-one of them, and if you have a MagicBand+, you’ll be able to experience even more wonder as you wander. For example, at “The Nightmare Before Christmas” tree, the band allows you to see Zero fly around the top. 

Santa And A Sleigh Full Of Presents

Ho, ho, ho… it’s not a holiday celebration without the big man himself making an appearance. Santa Claus will be enjoying a break from the North Pole and taking up residence in Santa’s Marketplace, which is near Disney’s Pin Traders.

For any elves looking to take care of their holiday shopping, there’s no shortage of options with national retailers like Coach and Lululemon to specialty Disney boutiques. However, if you’re looking for something that’ll truly wow, make sure you check out Disney’s Days Of Christmas. They’re known for their specialty ornaments that can be personalized with a handwritten note or phrase from one of the on-site Disney artists. For more information, visit disneysprings.com.

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