Disney World Closes Its Gates in Early December for Over a Week: Here’s Why

in Walt Disney World

Santa Claus rides in a festive red sleigh at Magic Kingdom

Credit: Disney

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Walt Disney World Resort, but for some would-be guests, it’s also beginning to feel like a scramble for holiday tickets.

Parade at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party during the evening hours at Disney World.
Credit: Jill Bivins

Walt Disney World Resort’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Sells Out for Key December Dates: What You Need to Know

The magic of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a beloved after-hours event at the Magic Kingdom, is officially in full swing—and it’s already proving to be more popular than ever. So much so, that the event has sold out for several key dates this December, leaving guests hoping to attend with a bit of disappointment.

As of now, tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party have sold out for December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 10. This means that if you’re planning to visit the park on those nights, you won’t be able to join in on the seasonal cheer, with no more tickets available for those dates. And, as we head further into December, the odds are high that even more dates will sell out.

If you’ve been dreaming of sipping hot cocoa while enjoying the festive ambiance of the Magic Kingdom, complete with Mickey-shaped cookies, sparkling lights, and exclusive holiday entertainment, it’s time to act quickly. The event offers a unique and magical experience, but with ticket availability rapidly decreasing, waiting to make a decision could cost you the chance to take part in the festivities.

Main Street, U.S.A. during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Inside the Magic

Why the Rush for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party?

For those who have never experienced it, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is an unforgettable way to get into the holiday spirit. Held on select nights throughout the holiday season, this separate ticketed event takes place after regular park hours and features all kinds of festive fun, including special holiday parades, themed stage shows, character meet-and-greets, and exclusive access to certain attractions with minimal wait times.

Guests can also experience the iconic “A Frozen Holiday Wish” castle lighting show, where Cinderella Castle is transformed into a breathtaking, twinkling winter wonderland. And, of course, let’s not forget about the signature snowfall that magically occurs on Main Street, U.S.A., making it feel like the perfect winter night—right in the heart of Florida!

In addition to these experiences, the event also features special treats like complimentary cookies, hot chocolate, and cider, available throughout the park. The entire event is themed to immerse guests in the ultimate Disney Christmas experience, making it an attractive option for both Disney fans and holiday enthusiasts.

Elsa and Anna from Disney's 'Frozen' film franchise, waving at guests during a Christmas parade at Disney World.
Credit: Disney

Why Are Tickets Selling Out So Quickly?

The increased demand for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is no surprise. As Disney fans know, the holiday season at Walt Disney World is one of the busiest—and most magical—times of the year. The combination of exclusive holiday-themed experiences and limited-ticket availability makes it a sought-after event, with many guests willing to pay a premium for the chance to enjoy the park in a more intimate, after-hours setting.

This year, Disney has introduced new themed offerings and enhancements to the event, which likely contributed to the rapid sell-out. The excitement surrounding the event, paired with the surge of visitors to the park for the holiday season, has made tickets fly off the shelves faster than Santa’s sleigh.

For many guests, attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, making it a priority to get tickets well in advance. And with more people flocking to Walt Disney World this year—especially after a few years of limited attendance during the pandemic—it’s no wonder the event is selling out earlier in the season than usual.

Five iconic cartoon characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and Pluto, are dressed in festive holiday attire. They stand in a cheerful, decorated street with a castle in the background, celebrating the holiday season together at Disney World.
Credit: Disney

What’s Next for Those Who Missed Out?

Don’t panic just yet! Even if you missed the boat on these sold-out dates, there’s still hope to join the festive fun. While several dates in early December are no longer available, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party runs through December 22, so there are still plenty of chances to grab tickets for later in the month. However, you’ll want to move quickly to avoid missing out completely, as more dates are likely to sell out soon.

For those who are planning to attend, keep in mind that the event is incredibly popular for good reason. It’s a great way to experience Disney magic during the holiday season, but it also requires a bit of advance planning. If you haven’t yet bought tickets for a date you’re interested in, don’t wait much longer—grab them now before they’re gone.

Pro Tip: Be Flexible with Your Dates

If you’re flexible with your schedule and can adjust your travel dates, try to look for availability on nights that are not as high in demand. Weekdays, especially earlier in the month, tend to be less crowded than weekends, which may give you a better chance of securing tickets.

A woman and two children pose next to Donald Duck in front of a large Christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments. The children are wearing festive Mickey Mouse ears. The setting has an elegant, decorated interior with more lights in the background.
Credit: Disney

Also, keep an eye on Disney’s official website for any last-minute releases. While it’s rare, sometimes extra tickets become available if there’s an increase in capacity or if Disney decides to release additional dates. It’s always worth checking back, especially as you get closer to your trip. Each Disney World park brings a magical Holiday experience to this Disney theme park destination.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Magic at Disney World!

If you’ve been thinking about attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this holiday season, the time to act is now. With multiple dates already sold out and the demand continuing to rise, there’s no time to waste. Don’t let the magic pass you by—make sure to grab your tickets while you still can, and get ready for a night filled with holiday cheer, enchanting experiences, and, of course, a sprinkle of Disney magic.

Happy holidays, and we hope to see you at the most magical Christmas party on Earth!

in Walt Disney World

View Comment (1)