Thanksgiving at Disney World | Where to Eat, Stay, and Celebrate in 2025

Thinking about trading your apron for mouse ears this November? Disney World Thanksgiving in 2025 is calling—and it’s serving up more than just a turkey breast.
Imagine skipping the kitchen chaos and heading straight to Magic Kingdom, where Main Street is decked out in fall flair, Mickey-shaped pumpkins are glowing, and Cinderella Castle shimmers with holiday lights.
Thanksgiving at Disney World is the perfect mix of festive coziness and theme park magic, whether you’re digging into a Thanksgiving feast at Whispering Canyon Cafe, grabbing seasonal bites from quick service restaurants, or soaking up the autumn vibes at Animal Kingdom.
With exclusive menus, fun character moments, and restaurants offered across the resort that bring the holiday to life, this is one tradition you’ll want to repeat.
So grab a fork (and maybe a poncho)—we’re diving into everything you need to know to celebrate Thanksgiving at the most magical place on Earth!
What’s Happening at Disney World Thanksgiving 2025?
Disney World Thanksgiving 2025 brings festive parades, limited-time treats, and magical moments you won’t want to miss this holiday season.
Is Disney World open on Thanksgiving? Absolutely! In fact, Thanksgiving in Disney World isn’t just a holiday—it’s the unofficial kickoff to Disney’s most magical season. While the turkey’s roasting and crowds are flocking in, the parks are flipping the switch from pumpkin spice to peppermint sparkle.
It’s the perfect sweet spot for fall-meets-winter festivities, and there’s no shortage of cozy moments, festive eats, and glittering entertainment to go around.
Whether you’re catching the last taste of the Food & Wine Festival or soaking in the glow of brand-new nighttime parades, this week is bursting with reasons to give thanks, with mouse ears on!
Park Decorations and Holiday Magic
From the moment you step into Magic Kingdom, it’s holiday cheer in full swing. All four theme parks (and many resorts) are decked out with oversized Christmas trees, garlands, and glittering lights, with just enough Thanksgiving touches—like “Happy Thanksgiving” signage—to keep it festive without skipping straight to Christmas.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Starting November 7, this separately-ticketed bash at Magic Kingdom is the hot chocolate-drenched cherry on top of your Thanksgiving trip. Think exclusive stage shows, magical snowfall on Main Street, cookie stations galore, and a decked-out parade that brings Santa himself to town. It’s a holiday overload in the best possible way!
EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays
Just after Thanksgiving, EPCOT transforms into a global celebration of winter traditions. The International Festival of the Holidays brings you yuletide flavors from around the world, narrated storytelling from cultural ambassadors, and crowd-favorite attractions like the Candlelight Processional.
Grab a Holiday Cookie Stroll passport and treat yourself to sweet seasonal bites while learning how different cultures celebrate. (Pro tip: If you visit before November 22, you’ll catch the tail end of the Food & Wine Festival—hello, bonus bites!)
Disney Jollywood Nights
Back for its third year, Jollywood Nights kicks off November 8 at Hollywood Studios, mixing vintage glam with modern sparkle. This nighttime event features holiday jazz clubs, rare character meet-and-greets, special food and drinks, and low wait times for rides.
It’s a bit more grown-up in vibe, but still family-friendly and brimming with retro holiday charm.
Entertainment and Fireworks
While there’s no official Thanksgiving Day parade, you’ll still catch youth and marching bands spreading festive energy across the parks.
Regular entertainment like Festival of Fantasy and Fantasmic! are still in full swing, plus you’ll get to see the brand-new Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom (except on Christmas Party nights).
It’s a dazzling starlit celebration of Disney classics from Frozen to Encanto, lit by the magic of the Blue Fairy!
Meet Santa Claus
It’s never too early to spot the big guy in red. Santa will be making appearances at all four parks and Disney Springs, giving your crew the chance to share their wish lists before the December rush.
Shopping at Disney Springs
Looking for holiday gifts that don’t come from a big box store? Disney Springs is your shopping wonderland. From unique Disney merchandise to seasonal sweets and cozy lounges, it’s the perfect place to wind down after a park day—or get a jump on that holiday shopping list.
Where Should You Go for Thanksgiving Dinner Walt Disney World Style?
Thanksgiving dinner Walt Disney World Resort offers everything from classic turkey feasts to festive character meals—reserve your table before they fill up.
From Magic Kingdom to Disney Springs, these dining spots serve up holiday comfort, Disney charm, and plenty of reasons to be thankful!
Liberty Tree Tavern
Located in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom, Liberty Tree Tavern basically serves a menu for Thanksgiving dinner year-round, but it hits differently on the actual holiday. This family-style feast includes roast turkey, pot roast, pork, stuffing mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and a plant-based option that doesn’t skimp on the savory.
The colonial décor and warm ambiance make it feel like stepping into grandma’s dining room—if grandma also served Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake for dessert.
Garden Grill
Over at EPCOT, Garden Grill Restaurant offers Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast in a slow-rotating dining room overlooking scenes from Living with the Land.
This all-you-care-to-enjoy meal features farm-fresh ingredients grown right in The Land Pavilion, and characters like Mickey, Pluto, and the chipmunks show up dressed in adorable farmer outfits. It’s a cozy, nature-loving, festive meal that checks every box, especially for those traveling with kiddos.
Geyser Point Bar & Grill
If you’re after comfort food without the hustle of the parks, head to Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This open-air restaurant is a hidden gem that serves up hearty fare with a rustic, peaceful view of Bay Lake.
It’s not traditional Thanksgiving, but with dishes like bison cheeseburgers, crab cakes, and seasonal drinks, it’s the perfect cozy-casual option for those who want delicious food without the big production.
Disney Springs – So Many Feasts, So Little Time
Disney Springs is a buffet of Thanksgiving dining options with something for every taste (and budget).
- The Edison serves a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings in an industrial-chic setting, plus seasonal cocktails to toast the day.
- City Works Eatery & Pour House delivers classic holiday plates and has plenty of TVs for catching the big game while you dine—ideal for football fans who don’t want to miss a play.
- Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant puts an Irish spin on Thanksgiving with roast turkey, bacon-braised Brussels sprouts, and live music that adds a unique flair to the feast.
Remember, reservations fill up faster than a parade route on Main Street, so be sure to book through the My Disney Experience app as early as possible.
Is It Too Early to Book for Thanksgiving at Disney World 2025?
Thanksgiving at Disney World is one of the busiest weeks of the year—book now to score the best rates, dining, and park reservations before they’re gone.
Booking early for Thanksgiving at Disney World is like snagging the last piece of warm pie—do it while you still can. With the parks drawing major holiday crowds and demand skyrocketing for everything from turkey dinners to parade views, getting ahead of the game means more choices, less stress, and better savings.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Park Tickets and Park Pass Reservations: Don’t wait on this. You’ll need both to enter the parks, and Thanksgiving week fills up fast, especially for hot-ticket days like Thanksgiving Day and the EPCOT festival kickoff. Lock in your park dates early so you’re not left out of the magic.
- Dining Reservations: Thanksgiving meals at Disney are legendary—Liberty Tree Tavern’s turkey feast, Biergarten’s Bavarian coziness, or Grand Floridian Café’s low-key charm. Reservations open 60 days in advance and vanish quickly. Set a reminder and reserve early for the best picks.
- Hotel Reservations: The sooner you book, the more likely you are to snag a room that fits your style and budget. Whether it’s a festive Value resort with over-the-top décor or a Deluxe stay that’s walking distance from the parks, early birds get the best rates—and perks like Early Theme Park Entry.
- Transportation: Flights and car rentals tend to spike during holiday weeks, so book ASAP to avoid sticker shock. Staying onsite? You’ll have easy access to Disney’s free transportation (boats, buses, monorail), meaning more park time and fewer headaches.
Booking now isn’t just planning ahead—it’s making sure your Thanksgiving is filled with magic, not mayhem. The earlier you act, the more you save, and the smoother your Disney holiday dreams become!
Is Disney World Busy on Thanksgiving?
Is Disney World busy on Thanksgiving? Absolutely—and with packed parks and festive magic everywhere, you’ll want smart tips to beat the crowds.
So yes—Disney World is definitely busy on Thanksgiving, but that doesn’t mean you should cross it off your holiday list. In fact, it’s one of the most festive, heartwarming times to visit—if you know how to roll with the crowds and plan like a pro.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep the magic alive without losing your cool (or your spot in line). Here’s how to make the most of Thanksgiving Day in the parks:
- Expect Longer Wait Times: Thanksgiving Day and the weekend that follows are part of one of the busiest weeks of the year at Disney World. Popular rides like Flight of Passage, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Slinky Dog Dash will see peak waits. Use Lightning Lanes wisely to avoid spending hours in line—book early in the day and stack for the afternoon when it’s most crowded.
- Utilize Mobile Ordering: Skip the lines and order meals, snacks, or that post-parade Dole Whip right from the My Disney Experience app. It’s a game-changer, especially when quick-service lines stretch down the walkways around lunchtime. You’ll save time and stress, and avoid hangry meltdowns before fireworks.
- Consider Off-Peak Times for Dining: Eat brunch at 10:30 a.m. or dinner at 3:45 p.m.—it’s not just about dodging crowds, it’s about getting a table. Popular spots book fast, and walk-ups are rare on Thanksgiving Day. Off-peak dining times give you a quieter, more relaxing meal and help you avoid the midday rush.
- Be Patient and Flexible: Lines will be long, walkways will be packed, and some plans might go sideways—and that’s okay. A good mindset is your best park-day accessory. Slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and lean into the little moments: a holiday cupcake shared on a bench, a surprise character sighting, or the joy of seeing Cinderella Castle lit up for the season.
Bottom line? Yes, Disney World is busy on Thanksgiving—but if you plan ahead, stay flexible, and embrace the cozy chaos, it can still be one of the most magical days of the year.
What’s Special About Thanksgiving in Disney World?
Thanksgiving in Disney World blends festive treats, dazzling décor, and early holiday magic for a celebration you won’t find anywhere else.
From seasonal sweets to shimmering nighttime shows, the parks are packed with festive extras that’ll have you feeling thankful from rope drop to fireworks. It’s the perfect time to slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and savor the little moments that make Disney during the holidays feel extra magical.
Special Thanksgiving Treats and Merchandise
Just like grandma’s pie table, Disney doesn’t hold back when it comes to Thanksgiving-themed goodies. Each park and resort bakery rolls out limited-time treats like pumpkin-spiced cupcakes, pecan tarts, and even Thanksgiving-inspired churros.
Keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for seasonal snack drops—Disney often surprises guests with unlisted treats, so it’s worth browsing bakery counters while you wander.
Don’t forget to browse the merch, too. You’ll find harvest-themed Minnie ears, cozy apparel, and collectible pins perfect for commemorating your holiday adventure!
Thanksgiving Fireworks
While there’s no fireworks show just for Thanksgiving, you’ll still be treated to some of the most dazzling displays of the year. Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular continues to wow guests with fireworks, music, and castle projections that give the evening a magical sendoff.
On nights when Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party isn’t scheduled, you’ll get the full fireworks experience, so check the calendar before you go.
Consider Alternative Fireworks Viewing
If Main Street, U.S.A. feels more packed than a Black Friday sale, don’t worry—there are fantastic ways to watch the show without being shoulder-to-shoulder with the crowd.
For a peaceful view with plenty of breathing room, try catching the fireworks from the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or the terrace at California Grill (with a dining reservation).
Even the Ticket and Transportation Center offers a great sightline of the sky without the chaos. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where you can enjoy the show with a side of serenity.
Thanksgiving in Disney World delivers a one-of-a-kind combo of cozy fall feels and early holiday sparkle—perfect for making memories, soaking up the season, and starting the most magical time of year with a grateful heart.
Is a Disney Resort Stay Worth It for Thanksgiving 2025?
Disney Resort stay perks add serious value during Thanksgiving 2025 with early park entry, festive décor, and easy access to the holiday magic—book early.
Booking a Disney Resort stay for Thanksgiving is about getting a front-row seat to everything that makes the holidays at Walt Disney World feel extra merry and bright.
From early access to the parks to snagging those hard-to-get dining reservations, staying onsite gives you a serious edge during one of the busiest (and most festive!) weeks of the year.
And let’s not forget the charm—Disney resorts are decked out in seasonal décor that’s straight out of a holiday movie, making it feel like the holidays even before you hit the parks.
Early Theme Park Entry
Every minute counts on Thanksgiving week, and early theme park entry is your golden ticket. Disney Resort guests get into all four theme parks 30 minutes before everyone else, which means you can hop on popular rides like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Peter Pan’s Flight, or Avatar Flight of Passage before the lines explode.
It’s perfect for families who want to knock out big-ticket attractions early and enjoy the rest of the day at a more relaxed pace. Pair it with mobile ordering and a game plan, and you’re basically skipping the chaos while everyone else is still parking their strollers.
Advanced Dining Reservations
Dining is huge during Thanksgiving week, and if you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you get to book your advance dining reservations 60 days beforehand, plus the length of your stay (up to 10 days).
That means you’ll have a better shot at scoring those coveted holiday meals at Liberty Tree Tavern, California Grill, or Cinderella’s Royal Table before offsite guests even get a chance. It’s one of the biggest booking perks out there, especially if food is a highlight of your holiday trip (and let’s be real, it always is).
Beyond the practical perks, staying at a Disney resort during Thanksgiving means you’re surrounded by festive lobby displays, holiday music, and easy access to transportation that whisks you to and from the parks with no stress.
Are There Any Thanksgiving Disney World Hotel Packages Available?
Thanksgiving Disney World hotel packages offer big savings, festive extras, and cozy stays close to all the holiday magic.
Planning a Thanksgiving getaway? Thanksgiving Disney World hotel packages make it easy to celebrate in style while staying within budget. These seasonal bundles often include discounted hotel rates, park ticket add-ons, and perks like early theme park entry—perfect for making the most of one of Disney’s busiest (and most magical) weeks of the year.
Whether you’re in it for the parades, pumpkin-flavored treats, or twinkling resort décor, a bundled stay puts you close to it all. Looking for convenience? Explore our favorite hotels near Disney World to stay right where the magic happens.
What Are the Best Thanksgiving Disney World Vacation Package Deals?
Thanksgiving Disney World vacation packages help you save up to 28% off while bundling top attractions into one easy, magical holiday escape.
Visiting Disney World during Thanksgiving means festive park décor, limited-time treats, and the kickoff of the holiday season—all without the summer heat or winter crowds.
With Thanksgiving Disney World vacation packages, you can bundle major Orlando attractions and experiences to save money and time while planning your trip.
Here are three top Thanksgiving-ready picks:
Disney World and SeaWorld Ticket Package
Save up to 28% off this combo that mixes Disney’s magic with SeaWorld’s marine-life shows and festive Thanksgiving offerings, including animal encounters and seasonal snacks.
Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort Ticket Package
Save up to 17% off when you bundle these two epic theme parks—perfect for families wanting Disney’s holiday magic and thrill rides like VelociCoaster and Escape from Gringotts.
Walt Disney World + Drawn to Life Cirque Combo Tickets
Save up to 11% off this unforgettable pairing that brings Disney’s theme parks together with Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatic celebration of Disney animation, just steps from Disney Springs.
Thanksgiving is one of the most magical times to visit Orlando, and Tripster’s bundled vacation packages make it easy to celebrate without overspending. Check out our current deals and grab your tickets before they’re gone!
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What’s the Best Way to Do Thanksgiving at Disney World Like a Pro?
Sure, we’ve got the best online rates (guaranteed, no fine print necessary), but we’re also your go-to for planning Thanksgiving at Disney World—way beyond just grabbing tickets.
Our Insider Guide to Disney World covers everything from where to watch the fireworks without the crowds to scoring last-minute dining reservations (yes, even on turkey day).
Whether you’re after cozy moments, EPCOT festivals, or festive parade views, we’ve got tips to help you do it all like a seasoned park hopper. For a smoother stay near the magic, don’t miss our curated list of hotels near Disney World.
With Tripster, you’ll save more, skip stress, and spend Thanksgiving making magical memories!
Ready to Experience the Magic of Disney World Thanksgiving?
If you’re dreaming of parades, festive treats, and twinkling lights, now’s the time to plan your Disney World Thanksgiving adventure. With smart booking tips, insider tricks, and unforgettable holiday fun, Thanksgiving at Disney World offers the perfect mix of cozy and magical.
Ready to save and celebrate? Check out our hand-picked Orlando hotels, attractions, shows, vacation packages, and our complete Orlando travel guide to start planning your best holiday trip yet!
Disney World Thanksgiving FAQs
How Can I Experience the Best of Park Decorations and Holiday Magic at Disney?
Park decorations and holiday magic shine brightest at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, with towering Christmas trees, themed displays, and resort lobbies decked in festive lights—visit early in the day or after dark for the full effect.
Is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Worth It During Thanksgiving Week?
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is worth it during Thanksgiving week if you want lower wait times, exclusive holiday entertainment, and festive treats available only at this after-hours event.
What’s Happening at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays After Thanksgiving?
EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays kicks off right after Thanksgiving with holiday kitchens, cultural storytellers, the Candlelight Processional, and a festive scavenger hunt around World Showcase.
Should I Add Disney Jollywood Nights to My Thanksgiving Itinerary?
Disney Jollywood Nights is a great Thanksgiving week add-on if you want glitzy holiday vibes, rare character appearances, and shorter lines at Hollywood Studios in a more relaxed, adults-leaning evening atmosphere.
What Entertainment and Fireworks Can I See During Thanksgiving at Disney?
Entertainment and fireworks during Thanksgiving at Disney include regular shows like Fantasmic!, Festival of Fantasy parade, and Happily Ever After fireworks, with added holiday flair and occasional marching bands throughout the parks.
Where Can I Meet Santa Claus at Disney World Over Thanksgiving?
You can meet Santa Claus at Disney World over Thanksgiving at all four theme parks and Disney Springs, where he appears in themed photo spots and festive settings throughout the day.
Is Shopping at Disney Springs Worth It During Thanksgiving Week?
Shopping at Disney Springs during Thanksgiving week is worth it for early holiday deals, seasonal merchandise, live entertainment, and festive décor that make the experience more than just retail therapy.
Where Should I Go for Thanksgiving Dinner Walt Disney World Style?
For Thanksgiving dinner Walt Disney World style, top picks include Liberty Tree Tavern for a traditional feast, Garden Grill for a character meal with farm-fresh favorites, and select Disney Springs restaurants offering seasonal specials in festive settings.
Is Liberty Tree Tavern the Best Spot for a Thanksgiving Feast at Disney?
Liberty Tree Tavern is one of the best spots for a Thanksgiving feast at Disney, serving a hearty, all-you-care-to-enjoy traditional meal with roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and colonial-style charm in the heart of Magic Kingdom.
What Makes Garden Grill a Fun Thanksgiving Dining Choice at Disney?
Garden Grill is a fun Thanksgiving dining choice at Disney thanks to its rotating restaurant view, all-you-care-to-enjoy harvest feast, and visits from Mickey, Chip, Dale, and Pluto in festive farmer outfits.
Is Geyser Point Bar & Grill a Good Thanksgiving Option for Laid-Back Dining?
Geyser Point Bar & Grill is a great Thanksgiving option for laid-back dining, offering hearty comfort dishes by the lake with fewer crowds and a relaxed, festive vibe.
Which Disney Springs Restaurants Serve Thanksgiving Meals?
Several Disney Springs restaurants serve Thanksgiving meals, including The Edison with a classic turkey dinner, Raglan Road with Irish-inspired holiday fare, and City Works Eatery & Pour House, where you can enjoy traditional dishes while watching football on big screens.
Is It Too Early to Book My Trip for Thanksgiving at Disney World 2025?
It’s not too early to book your trip for Thanksgiving at Disney World 2025—hotels, park reservations, and dining spots fill up fast during this peak holiday week, so early planning means better options and bigger savings.
Is Disney World Busy on Thanksgiving and How Can I Beat the Crowds?
Disney World is very busy on Thanksgiving, but you can beat the crowds by arriving early, using Lightning Lanes, booking dining in advance, and taking advantage of early theme park entry if staying at a Disney resort.
What’s Special About Celebrating Thanksgiving in Disney World?
Celebrating Thanksgiving in Disney World is special because it blends festive fall décor, limited-time treats, exclusive holiday events, and magical entertainment, all wrapped in that signature Disney cheer.
Where Can I Find Special Thanksgiving Treats and Merchandise at Disney?
Special Thanksgiving treats and merchandise at Disney can be found at park bakeries serving pumpkin‑spiced goodies and festive snacks, and at shops stocked with holiday ears, décor, and collectible pins throughout all four parks and resorts.
Are There Thanksgiving Fireworks at Disney World?
Thanksgiving fireworks at Disney World are part of the regular nighttime spectaculars like Happily Ever After—with holiday enhancements but no exclusive Thanksgiving-only show.
Where Can I Enjoy Alternative Fireworks Viewing Without the Crowds?
You can enjoy alternative fireworks viewing without the crowds from spots like the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the Ticket and Transportation Center, or the rooftop of California Grill with a reservation—all offering stunning views of Magic Kingdom’s show minus the packed park paths.
Is a Disney Resort Stay Worth It for Thanksgiving Week?
A Disney Resort stay is worth it for Thanksgiving week thanks to perks like early park entry, festive lobby décor, easier transportation, and priority access to dining and Lightning Lane reservations during one of the busiest times of the year.
How Can Early Theme Park Entry at Disney Help During Thanksgiving Crowds?
Early theme park entry at Disney helps during Thanksgiving crowds by letting resort guests access top attractions 30 minutes before regular opening, giving them a crucial head start on popular rides before lines build.
When Should I Make Advanced Dining Reservations for Thanksgiving at Disney?
Early dining reservations for Thanksgiving at Disney World should be made 60 days before your arrival date—guests staying at Disney Resorts can book for their entire stay starting then, giving you the best shot at those coveted tables.
Are There Any Thanksgiving Disney World Hotel Packages Available Right Now?
Thanksgiving Disney World hotel packages from Tripster offer festive stays near the parks with exclusive savings and perks perfect for your holiday escape.
Which Thanksgiving Disney World Vacation Package Offers the Best Value?
Thanksgiving Disney World vacation packages offer the best value when bundled through Tripster, combining park tickets with savings on other top Orlando attractions.