Walt Disney World Resort Holiday Extras & Gingerbread!

Walt Disney World is without a doubt one of the most magical places in the world. Add the holidays to that equation and you’ve got magic overload. There is so much to see and do, it’s really hard to experience it all in one visit. But one thing to  be sure not to miss are the Walt Disney World Resort hotel decorations and added festivities for the season. Each resort, from Deluxe to Value has eye-popping holiday decorations. I’ve often toured around the different resorts just to see if I can figure out which one is my favorite. It’s hard to choose!

One of the main show-stopping displays is of course the famous Gingerbread House (or mansion really) at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. As you enter the lobby the smell of gingerbread and spice draws you towards the display. In its 19th year, the house is a favorite spot for many photo opportunities, hidden Mickey hunts, and of course, buying a gingerbread shingle – at the shop INSIDE the gingerbread house itself!

Another favorite is the gingerbread (there seems to be a running theme of gingerbread here… Yumm!) and chocolate carousel in the lobby of Disney’s Beach Club Resort, this year celebrating its 18th year. The theme this year is Lilo and Stitch, with each completely edible horse made to remind you of the movie. Don’t forget to see if you can spot all 18 hidden Mickeys on this display! And while you’re at Beach Club, take a stroll over to the Yacht Club lobby, and their annual detailed toy train set display.

At Disney’s Contemporary Resort this year, you’ll find an 18-foot tall Cinderella Castle display, crafted from thousands of gingerbread (YUMMY!) blocks, rolled fondant, and modeling chocolate. The castle is recreated in the style of legendary artist Mary Blair on a backdrop inspired by “it’s a small world,” with oversized gingerbread cookies depicting Cinderella and Prince Charming greeting guests from the castle forecourt. You can purchase many different holiday treats here as well.

And while its not gingerbread…. Be sure not to miss the giant Christmas trees inside Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge’s lobbies too. Of course, the decorations and displays flow over into the parks as well, with countless fun touches and holiday charm everywhere. I’m not sure creating this list made picking a favorite any easier, so I’ll ask you – what’s your favorite Disney Resort holiday display, and why? And if you don’t have one – most of these displays will be up until January 1st or 2nd, so you’ll have to pay a visit and see for yourself!