Hey, besties! I’m Melissa, and today I’m bringing you along to one of my favorite places in all of Walt Disney World—Disney Springs. There is something so magical about this place during the holiday season, especially throughout the Christmas season, which typically kicks off in early November and lasts into early January. The best part? You don’t need a park ticket, and parking is completely free.
Whether you’re looking to meet Santa, find the perfect Disney gift, or just soak in the atmosphere with a festive drink, Disney Springs is a must-add to your vacation list. Holidays at Disney Springs is a signature event featuring festive décor, holiday-themed activities, and special shopping opportunities.
The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll
One of the most beloved traditions here is the Christmas Tree Stroll. It’s a completely free activity where you can see dozens of intricately decorated trees themed after your favorite Disney stories.
How it works: Grab a map from various locations around Disney Springs.
The Experience: As you find each tree, you mark it off on your map with a sticker.
Pro Tip: Check them out during the day to see the tiny details (like the hidden ornaments), but definitely come back at night. The glow of the lights creates a totally different, romantic, and festive vibe. The festive glow from the holiday lights and decorations transforms the area into a magical winter wonderland.
How to Meet Santa: The Virtual Queue Guide
Meeting Santa at Disney Springs is a bit different than your local mall. To keep things organized, Disney uses a Virtual Queue. You cannot join this from your hotel; you must be physically present at Disney Springs.
Steps to Join the Queue:
Open the My Disney Experience App: Search for “Virtual Queue.”
Check In: Tap “Join Virtual Queue.” It will show you if the queue is currently open.
Set an Alarm: If the next window isn’t open yet, set a timer on your watch so you don’t miss the drop!
Wait and Play: Once you’re in, the app gives you a group number. While you wait, you’re free to shop or eat.
Head to Disney Pin Traders: The meet-and-greet is located right next to Disney Pin Traders and Lefty’s.
When your number is called, you’ll get a notification. You usually have about an hour to show up. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful holiday set, PhotoPass photographers, and a chance to tell the big guy what’s on your wishlist!
Writing Letters to Santa at Once Upon a Toy
If you have little ones (or if you’re just a kid at heart like me!), head over to Once Upon a Toy. They have a dedicated station where you can write a letter to Santa.
After you finish your letter, drop it into the Magic Mailbox. If you listen closely, you’ll hear a magical chime—that’s the sound of your letter arriving at the North Pole! The Cast Members might even give you an “Official Receipt” from the North Pole to take home as a souvenir.
Holiday Merchandise & Art
Shopping at Disney Springs during the holidays is an elite experience. Here are a few spots you can’t miss:
World of Disney
This is the motherlode of merch. This year, I’m obsessed with the Pink Collection.
Pink Spirit Jersey ($59.99): Featuring Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald in front of the castle.
Pastel Tees ($34.99): Soft ivory and teal colors that are perfect for a Florida winter.
Sage “Tis the Season” Sweatshirt ($49.99): Features adorable gingerbread characters.
There’s seasonal shopping galore, with an abundance of holiday-themed merchandise and festive finds throughout Disney Springs.
The Art of Disney
Stop by the enchanted holiday art gallery. You can find works by artists like Michael Reyes (who does the iconic Gideon’s Bakehouse art) and Tim Rogerson.
Disney Days of Christmas
This shop is open 365 days a year, but it shines in December.
Personalization: For $5 per word, you can get ornaments hand-painted with names or dates.
Ornaments: From delicate glass balls to sturdy “clumsy-proof” resin ornaments like the new Deco the Halls line ($22.99).
Festive Eats at Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar
You can’t have a Disney day without great food. During the holidays, Jock Lindsay’s (the Indiana Jones-themed pilot bar) gets a full Christmas “overlay” with decorations and a limited-time menu.
| Menu Item | Price | Melissa’s Review |
|---|---|---|
| The Tannenbaum | $17.50 | A bright green tropical drink with Malibu Rum and a red sugar rim. It tastes like a beach vacation in December! |
| Turkey Egg Rolls | $16.00 | Served in a cute holiday truck! Comes with cranberry dipping sauce. It’s like a crispy Thanksgiving dinner. |
| Holiday Minecart Meatballs | $15.00 | Maple bourbon meatballs with cranberry chutney. Served in a tiny wooden sleigh. Juicy and festive! |
You’ll also find unique holiday treats like holly deviled eggs, herbed butter, and marshmallow mousse as part of the special seasonal offerings.
Final Bestie Tips
Interact with the Characters: Look out for Douglas Fir, the roaming, talking Christmas tree! He’s hilarious and loves to take “elfies.”
Stay for the Nightlife: Once the sun goes down, the entertainment ramps up. There are live musicians and stilt walkers throughout the promenades.
Snack on the Go: When you finish meeting Santa, don’t forget your complimentary milk and cookies on the way out!
If you’re exploring other Disney parks or experiences, don’t miss Disney’s Hollywood Studios for more holiday entertainment, and consider attending the Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom for a quintessential Christmas celebration. Be sure to check out Pluto’s Christmas Tree and Walt Disney Presents for festive holiday exhibits and special screenings during the Christmas season.
Disney Springs is the perfect way to soak up the Disney magic without the stress of a theme park crowd. I hope this guide helps you plan your next “Disney Day.”
If you loved following along, make sure to subscribe to my journey for more tips on making your vacation lighter and brighter. Whistle while you work, besties!
What’s your favorite holiday tradition at Disney Springs?
The Christmas Tree Stroll
Shopping at World of Disney
Holiday snacks at the Hangar Bar
If you’re craving something sweet, don’t miss the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop for a true chocolate shop experience—perfect for holiday indulgence.
Which one are you headed to first?
Christmas Tree Stroll
If you’re looking for a true winter wonderland in the heart of Disney Springs, the Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth is an absolute must-do during the holiday season. This beloved tradition transforms Disney Springs into a sparkling forest of themed Christmas trees, each one more enchanting than the last. The Disney Springs Christmas Tree stands as the dazzling centerpiece, but every tree along the stroll is a work of art—some even feature whimsical decorations inspired by your favorite holiday treats, like mini dark chocolate chips, swirls of milk chocolate mousse, and glimmering salted caramel crispy pearls.
As you wander through the stroll, you’ll be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit, snap some magical photos, and make memories with family and friends. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll is sure to add a sprinkle of Disney magic to your holiday adventure.
Santa Meet & Greet
No holiday season at Disney Springs is complete without a visit to see Santa Claus himself! Step into a festive wonderland where Santa is ready to hear all about your Christmas wishes and pose for that perfect holiday photo. The meet and greet area is decked out in true Disney style, with twinkling lights and sweet touches like a gingerbread cake soaked in gingerbread syrup, topped with fluffy whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed rock candy—making the whole space smell like a cozy bakery on Christmas Eve.
Santa’s cheerful presence and the magical setting make this a can’t-miss experience for families and Disney fans of all ages. Be sure to bring your wish list and your best smile, because meeting Santa at Disney Springs is a memory you’ll treasure long after your Walt Disney World vacation ends. Don’t forget to look for those sparkling rock candy accents—they’re just one more reason this Santa meet and greet is extra sweet!
Festive Eats
Bring your holiday appetite to Disney Springs, because the festive eats here are as magical as the decorations! All around Disney Springs, you’ll find seasonal treats and savory bites that capture the flavors of the holidays. Indulge in a slice of gingerbread cake, dig into a chocolate cookie crust dessert, or savor fried chicken with a side of sweet potato filling for a comforting winter meal.
Don’t miss the special holiday flavors popping up everywhere—think peppermint syrup drizzled over chocolate soft serve, or a swirl of whipped cream on top of your favorite treat. The Ghirardelli Soda Fountain is a must for handmade hot fudge and rich dark chocolate sauce, while the Christmas Tree Stroll itself features trees adorned with honey ganache covered pretzels and maple syrup covered graham cracker crumbs, inspiring some of the most creative snacks you’ll find all season.
Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, Disney Springs has a holiday treat for every taste bud. From graham cracker crumbles to festive fried chicken, your taste adventure awaits—so come hungry and ready to celebrate Disney Springs Christmas in the most delicious way!
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain Treats
If you’re a chocolate lover, the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain at Disney Springs is your holiday headquarters! This season, treat yourself to decadent delights like dark chocolate mousse, crunchy dark chocolate coated pretzels, and the irresistible chocolate soft serve swirl. The menu is bursting with festive flavors—try a drizzle of peppermint syrup, a hint of gingerbread syrup, or a dash of cinnamon syrup for that extra holiday sparkle.
Top off your treat with a cloud of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for the ultimate festive fun. Whether you’re sipping on a rich hot cocoa or enjoying a scoop of chocolate soft serve, every bite at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain feels like a celebration. Located right in the heart of Walt Disney World, it’s the perfect spot to pause, indulge, and make sweet holiday memories during your Disney Springs adventure.
