The EPCOT Candlelight Processional is a beloved Christmas tradition at Walt Disney World. This year, the Candlelight Processional will return for its 54rd year, running from November 29, 2024 through December 30, 2024.
EPCOT Candlelight Processional - 2024
The Candlelight Processional is held in the America Gardens Theatre at EPCOT. This theater is located in the World Showcase, near the American Adventure pavilion.
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| EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays – Candlelight Processional 2024 |
The Candlelight Processional is a narrated musical pageant that tells the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The pageant is accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a choir of over 100 voices. The narrators are often celebrities, and past narrators have included Whoopi Goldberg, Julie Andrews, and John Stamos.
The Candlelight Processional is held in the America Gardens Theater at Epcot. The theater is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and the atmosphere is truly magical. The show is approximately 45 minutes long, and it is a wonderful way to experience the magic of Christmas at Walt Disney World.
History of the EPCOT Candlelight Processional
The EPCOT Candlelight Processional is a holiday tradition that has been enjoyed by millions of guests at Walt Disney World Resort since 1971. The show is a retelling of the Christmas story, narrated by a celebrity guest, and accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and massed choir.
The Candlelight Processional was originally created for Disneyland in 1958, by Dr. Charles C. Hirt, a professor of music at the University of Southern California. Hirt was inspired by the Christmas Eve Candlelight Procession in his hometown of St. Louis, and he wanted to create something similar for Disneyland.
The first Candlelight Processional at Disneyland featured a small choir of singers, accompanied by a few musicians. The show was performed in front of the Main Street Opera House, and it quickly became one of the park's most popular holiday attractions.
In 1971, Walt Disney World Resort opened, and the Candlelight Processional was brought to the Magic Kingdom. The show was performed in Town Square, and it featured a larger choir and orchestra. The Candlelight Processional quickly became a popular tradition at the Magic Kingdom, and it has been performed there every year since.
In 1994, the Candlelight Processional was moved to Epcot. The show was performed in the American Gardens Theatre, and it featured a even larger choir and orchestra. The move to Epcot was a success, and the Candlelight Processional has become one of the park's most popular holiday attractions.
Today, the EPCOT Candlelight Processional is a beloved holiday tradition that is enjoyed by millions of guests each year. The show is a beautiful and moving retelling of the Christmas story, and it is a perfect way to experience the magic of the holidays at Walt Disney World Resort.
Here are some of the celebrity narrators who have participated in the EPCOT Candlelight Processional:
- Dennis Morgan (1961)
- Dick Van Dyke (1965)
- Julie Andrews (1978)
- James Earl Jones (1985)
- Patrick Stewart (1993)
- Angela Lansbury (2000)
- Morgan Freeman (2009)
- Josh Gad (2017)
- Kerry Washington (2020)
What to Expect
The Candlelight Processional is a 30-minute show that takes place in the American Adventure rotunda at EPCOT. The show begins with a procession of candle-lit floats, followed by the live narration of the Christmas story. The choir and orchestra perform traditional Christmas carols throughout the show.
Why you should attend the EPCOT Candlelight Processional?
Here are some reasons why you should attend the EPCOT Candlelight Processional:
- It is a truly magical experience. The combination of the beautiful music, the stirring narration, and the festive atmosphere is truly magical.
- It is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. The Candlelight Processional is a perfect way to start your holiday season.
- It is a great way to see some of your favorite Disney characters. Many celebrity narrators have appeared at the Candlelight Processional, including Josh Gad, Whoopi Goldberg, and Neil Patrick Harris.
- It is a great way to learn about the history of Christmas. The Candlelight Processional tells the story of Christmas in a way that is both informative and entertaining.
Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrator Schedule
The Candlelight Processional features a celebrity narrator each year. Here is the Candlelight Processional celebrity narrator schedule for 2024:
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| EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays – Candlelight Processional Source: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/epcot/candlelight-processional/ |
Again, the 2024 Candlelight Processional narrator schedule has not yet been released for any dates from late November through the end of December. Even once it is, it’ll be subject to change due to scheduling conflicts (that happens from time to time with the celebrities, but is pretty rare).
However, since many narrators are the same from year to year (and around approximately the same dates), here’s last year’s Candlelight Processional at EPCOT narrator schedule for reference:
- Chrissy Metz (NEW) – November 24 and 25
- Luis Fonsi (NEW) – November 26 and 27
- Ann-Margret (NEW) – November 28
- Ashley Eckstein (NEW) – November 29
- Simu Liu – November 30 and December 1-2
- Bart Millard – November 30 and December 1-2
- John Stamos – December 3 through December 5
- Neil Patrick Harris – December 6 through December 8
- Marlee Matlin – December 9 through December 11
- Brendan Fraser (NEW) – December 12 through December 14
- Eva Longoria (NEW) – December 15 and December 16
- Joey McIntyre (NEW) – December 17 and December 18
- Sterling K. Brown (NEW) – December 19 and December 20
- Jordan Fisher (NEW) – December 21 through December 23
- Steven Curtis Chapman – December 24 through December 26
- Audra McDonald (NEW) – December 27 and December 28
- Lisa Ling – December 29 and December 30
Celebrity narrators, dates and other entertainment are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
For what it’s worth, last year was the best narrator lineup we’ve seen since we’ve been attending Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, roughly 15 years ago. There was something for everyone here, with big-name newcomers like Eva Longoria, Sterling K. Brown, and Brendan Fraser, having huge fan-followings. Hopefully someone gets Mr. Fraser his cup of coffee before his performance, or watch out! (Sorry, reference to the wrong theme park.)
This Candlelight Processional narrator lineup is stacked from top to bottom. At least half of this list really appeals to us, and even those with whom we’re unfamiliar have fan followings. Fresh blood can be a good thing.
For the Disney Adults out there, John Stamos and Neil Patrick Harris are the biggest names. For more mainstream millennials, there’s Joey McIntyre and Jordan Fisher. Regardless of age, there's something for everyone!
Candlelight Processional Dining Packages
Candlelight Processional Dining Packages are now available. Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) are highly recommended and can be made 60 days in advance. Keep in mind that this is still subject to the 60+10 rule for on-site guests, meaning that all dates are now available. However, most are sold out.
With that said, there is a reported issue impacting Candlelight Processional ADR availability. For whatever reason, you might not see any times available via the online system, even when there are options. Nine times out of 10, this is just because everything is booked up. But we have had several readers report scoring ADRs when calling despite nothing showing up via the My Disney Experience app or website. Don’t count on having similar luck, but it is something to keep in mind as a last resort.
Beyond that, watch for more availability to be released or otherwise open up. See our Guide to Advance Dining Reservations at Walt Disney World for tips & tricks to increase your chances of success in scoring a Candlelight Processional Dining Package, even in the days and weeks after they’re originally released!
Participating Restaurants and Prices
Choose from 8 unique eateries at EPCOT offering Candlelight Processional Dining Packages. A meal at participating restaurants includes:
- At Spice Road Table: 2 small plates and one nonalcoholic beverage per person, plus a tagine and dessert platter for your party to share
- All other participating restaurants: an appetizer, entrée, and dessert, or one full buffet/family-style meal, as well as a nonalcoholic beverage
- One guaranteed seat per person to the Candlelight Processional held on the same day
| Restaurant | Adult (ages 10 and up) | Child (ages 3 to 9) |
|---|---|---|
| Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Norway Pavilion) | $71.00 – Breakfast $83.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
$45.00 – Breakfast $53.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
| Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) | $65.00 | $37.00 |
| Coral Reef Restaurant (The Living Seas) | $78.00 | $32.00 |
| Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) | $63.00 – Breakfast $78.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
$40.00 – Breakfast $50.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
| Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) | $104.00 | $42.00 |
| Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (American Adventure Pavilion) - same-day dining packages only | $41.00 | N/A |
| Rose & Crown Dining Room (United Kingdom Pavilion) | $66.00 | $29.00 |
| Spice Road Table (Morocco Pavilion) | $55.00 | $24.00 |
If you’re not able to score elusive ADRs for Candlelight Processional sit-down dining packages, fear not. You may be able to purchase a same-day dining package, which allows you to:
- Dine without reservations at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue that day
- Enjoy guaranteed seats to a Candlelight Processional performance later that day
To check availability for same-day dining packages, visit Regal Eagle’s Distinctly Patriotic Smokehouse: A Salute to All Foods, But Mostly Barbecued Meats ~ A Sam Eagle Craft Drafts & BBQ Joint. Same-day Candlelight Processional Dining Packages are subject to availability and may not be available on peak dates.
Restaurant Recommendations
Last year, both Regal Eagle and Spice Road Table regularly had same-day availability. For most dates, it was relatively easy to score Candlelight Processional viewing via these walk-up restaurants than by booking Advance Dining Reservations at the eligible table service restaurants.
On the table service front, we highly recommend Biergarten Restaurant. This is always our top pick thanks to its jovial Christmas atmosphere, music, and value for money. If you’re wondering whether it might be worth doing plus some ideas for making the most of the Candlelight Processional Experience, we have some tips & tricks and a review in this post.
Guide to Advance Dining Reservations at Walt Disney World
For comprehensive tips for planning your Candlelight Processional experience and other dining adventures at Walt Disney World, check out our Guide to Advance Dining Reservations at Walt Disney World. Additionally, you can download our free eBook, Vacation Kingdom at Christmas, which offers tips for visiting Walt Disney World during the holiday season. This eBook is 75+ pages, with 100+ photos, and tons of great recommendations & information! For more details on how to get this totally-free ebook, click here.
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
Benefits of the Dining Package
Here are some of the benefits of purchasing a Candlelight Processional Dining Package:
- Guaranteed seating for the Candlelight Processional
- Convenient meal service before or after the show
- Opportunity to meet the celebrity narrator
- Early access to the park on the day of the show
If you are planning to attend the Candlelight Processional, I highly recommend purchasing a dining package. It is a great way to ensure that you have a seat for the show and to enjoy a delicious meal before or after.
Candlelight Processional Song List
The Candlelight Processional features a variety of traditional Christmas carols, as well as some newer songs. The song list for 2023 has not yet been released, but it will likely include some of the following songs:
- "O Holy Night"
- "Silent Night"
- "Away in a Manger"
- "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing"
- "Joy to the World"
- "O Come, All Ye Faithful"
- "Deck the Halls"
- "Jingle Bells"
- "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"
Plan To Visit Candlelight Processional
- Schedule
The Candlelight Processional is held nightly at 5:15 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM. The show is held at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot.
- Tickets:
Tickets for the Candlelight Processional are available online, here or at the Epcot Guest Relations Center. General admission tickets are $12 per person, and dining package tickets are $49 per person. The dining package includes reserved seating for the Candlelight Processional as well as a three-course meal at one of several participating restaurants.
How to Get Tickets for the Candlelight Processional 2023?
When do candlelight processional tickets go on sale?
Candlelight Processional tickets for 2024 will go on sale on October 6, 2024 at 6:00 AM ET. You can purchase tickets online or by calling (407) 939-5277.
If you want to guarantee a seat, you can purchase a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. These packages include dinner at one of several Epcot restaurants, as well as guaranteed seating for the Candlelight Processional. Dining packages go on sale at the same time as regular tickets.
If you don't purchase a dining package, you can still see the Candlelight Processional by lining up in the standby line. However, the standby line can be very long, so you may want to arrive early if you want to get a good seat.
- Best Times to Visit
The Candlelight Processional is performed multiple times per night, so you can choose a time that works best for your schedule. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting during the week or early in the evening.
- Best Places to Sit
The best seats for the Candlelight Processional are in the center of the rotunda. These seats offer the best view of the stage and the floats. However, if you can't get seats in the center, there are still plenty of good seats available.
Other Things to Do at Epcot during the Candlelight Processional
In addition to the Candlelight Processional, there are many other things to do at Epcot during the holidays. Here are a few suggestions:
- Visit the World Showcase Countries: Each country in the World Showcase has its own unique holiday celebration, with decorations, food, and entertainment. You can enjoy traditional holiday foods from around the world, like gingerbread at Germany, or spiced wine at Norway.
- Catch a Show: Epcot has a variety of holiday shows throughout the day, including the Candlelight Processional itself, the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! fireworks show, and the Tree of Life Awakenings light show.
- See the International Holiday Workshops: There are several holiday workshops throughout Epcot where you can learn how to make traditional holiday crafts from around the world. At the Mexico workshop, you can make a piñata, and at the Norway workshop, you can learn how to make a troll doll.
- Enjoy the Candlelight Processional Dining Packages: If you want to guarantee a seat for the Candlelight Processional, you can purchase a dining package that includes dinner at one of several Epcot restaurants. The dining packages usually include a special menu and early access to the show.
- Take a Ride on the Monorail: The Epcot Monorail is a great way to see the park at night, and it's especially festive during the holidays. The monorail cars are decorated with lights and garland, and you can often see the Candlelight Processional from the train.
- Enjoy the Fireworks: Epcot has a special holiday fireworks show called IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. The show is set to music and features projections on the World Showcase Lagoon. The fireworks are a great way to end your night at Epcot.
- Visit the International Holiday Shopping Market: This marketplace has over 100 vendors selling holiday merchandise from around the world. You're sure to find something special for everyone on your list.
- Just Relax and Enjoy the Atmosphere: Epcot is really magical during the holidays, so take some time to just wander around and soak it all in. The atmosphere is festive and there's something for everyone to enjoy.
My Review About Candlelight Processional
I had the opportunity to see the Candlelight Processional for the first time last year, and I was absolutely blown away. The show was absolutely beautiful, and the music was incredibly moving. The narrator, Neil Patrick Harris, did a fantastic job of telling the story, and the choir and orchestra were simply amazing.
One of the things that I loved most about the Candlelight Processional was the way that it brought people together. The audience was filled with people of all ages, from all walks of life. Everyone was there to celebrate the Christmas season, and it was really heartwarming to see so many people coming together to share in this special moment.
If you're looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, I highly recommend seeing the EPCOT Candlelight Processional. It's a show that you'll never forget.
Is the candlelight processional worth it?
Whether or not the Candlelight Processional is worth it depends on your personal preferences and budget. Here are some factors to consider:
- The cost: The Candlelight Processional is free to attend, but if you want guaranteed seating, you can purchase a dining package at one of the participating restaurants. The dining packages range in price from $64 to $100 per adult.
- The experience: The Candlelight Processional is a beautiful and moving performance that tells the story of the Nativity. The orchestra, choir, and celebrity narrator create a truly magical atmosphere.
- The crowds: The Candlelight Processional is one of the most popular events at Epcot during the holidays, so if you don't have a dining package, you can expect to wait in line for a while.
Overall, the Candlelight Processional is a special and memorable experience that is worth considering if you are visiting Epcot during the holidays. However, if you are on a tight budget or don't like to wait in line, you may want to consider other options.
Here are some pros and cons of the Candlelight Processional to help you decide if it is right for you:
Pros:
- Beautiful and moving performance
- Magical atmosphere
- Chance to see a celebrity narrator
- Great way to get into the holiday spirit
Cons:
- Can be crowded
- Long lines if you don't have a dining package
- Can be expensive (if you purchase a dining package)
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to see the Candlelight Processional is up to you. If you are looking for a special and memorable holiday experience, I would recommend it. However, if you are on a tight budget or don't like to wait in line, you may want to consider other options.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience
- Make sure to get your tickets early: The Candlelight Processional is one of the most popular events at Epcot, so it's important to get your tickets early. You can purchase them online or at the park.
- Arrive early: The Candlelight Processional is very popular, so it's important to arrive early to get a good seat. The show starts at 5:15 pm, 7:00 pm, and 8:30 pm, so try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show you want to see.
- Dress warmly: It can get chilly at Epcot in the evenings, so dress warmly. You may also want to bring a blanket or shawl to keep you warm during the show.
- Be prepared for crowds: The Candlelight Processional is a very popular event, so be prepared for crowds. The park can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during the holidays.
Conclusion
The EPCOT Candlelight Processional is a truly magical experience. The combination of the beautiful music, the moving story, and the festive atmosphere creates a truly special Christmas moment. If you are looking for a truly magical Christmas experience, I highly recommend visiting the EPCOT Candlelight Processional.
To learn more about the Candlelight Processional 2024, visit the official website: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/epcot/candlelight-processional/
