SPOTLIGHT ATTRACTIONS
OH TANNENBAUMS
The Magic of the Holidays is Alive in Orlando Grab a slice of joy this holiday season as many of Orlando’s beloved holiday celebrations return. BY JENNIFER MCKEE DECK THE HALLS AT EPCOT The Candlelight Processional has returned to EPCOT! The tradition, which dates back to 1958 at Disneyland, has been taking place at Walt Disney World since 1994. After a pause in 2020, its return is particularly fitting this year, as it coincides with the celebration of Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. Each night through Dec. 30, by candlelight, a celebrity narrator retells the Biblical Christmas story of the child born in Bethlehem, accompanied by a choir and 50-piece orchestra; the choral pieces were woven into the production to provide additional inspiration, hope and joy. The all-ages experience is part of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays and takes place in the America Gardens Theatre. Also returning are Candle-
light Processional Dinner Packages, which guarantee diners entry into the evening’s performance (a handy perk, since the event is extremely popular.) Be sure to fully explore EPCOT to learn about holiday traditions around the globe. All of EPCOT’s World Showcase nations are participating in the affair and will lead you around by your senses: The sights, sounds, scents and flavors you’ll encounter will be truly unforgettable. And what’s more mouthwatering than some holiday treats? Get a Festival Passport and stroll the World Showcase promenade to visit Holiday Kitchens, which are cooking up a panoply of festive flavors. Love sweets? Consult your handy Holiday Passport or My Disney Experience App to uncover a scrumptious Holiday Cookie Stroll. Disneyworld.com
24 | ORLANDOMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2021 | SPOTLIGHT
HOLINIGHTS Join holiday revelers such as mischievous elves, towering toy soldiers, carolers and Santa Claus himself on Thursdays-Sundays through Dec. 26 at Promenade at Sunset Walk. The Holinights Celebration brings with it a craft market, holly jolly tunes, snowball fights and a chance to regale the big man with your list—you have been nice? The beautiful outdoor entertainment district always puts on a good time, with concerts, car shows and plenty of holiday fare. Plus, there’s free admission and parking. Sunsetwalk.com
COOKIES AND TREE: COURTESY WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT; CANDY CANES: SHUTTERSTOCK © PHOTASTIC
Need some inspiration for your holiday tree? Or just looking to marvel at the handiwork of others? Check out the over-the-top conifers at the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll. While some trees have been inspired by Disney movies, others take their cues from Disney attractions such as the Haunted Mansion. Make sure you view 2021-only trees made specifically to celebrate Disney World’s 50th anniversary—and get your hands on a map of the layout so you don’t miss a thing. Disneysprings.com
