Credit: DisneyWalt Disney World is filled with those little pockets of nostalgia that make the entire resort feel timeless.
Whether it’s a ride you’ve loved since childhood or a spot that always brings back a special memory, the resort has no shortage of classic touches that guests return to year after year. One of those charming staples doesn’t sit inside a theme park at all—it lives right in the heart of Disney Springs.
The Marketplace Carousel has quietly become one of the most beloved attractions outside the parks. Families wander past it between shopping and dining, only to stop for a quick spin.
Kids point excitedly at the horses, parents climb into one of the carriages with their little ones, and countless photos get snapped as the ride goes around. Even with the shopping district evolving every year, the carousel remains one of its sweetest traditions.
And now, Walt Disney World has confirmed a small seasonal change that guests adore: the return of the Christmas hats.
All the Disney Springs carousel horses have Santa hats. pic.twitter.com/KGIGTXJ95o
— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) December 7, 2025
Holiday Cheer Arrives at Disney Springs
Every December, the carousel horses get a fun little makeover. The addition of festive red hats instantly transforms the ride into a holiday moment that feels straight out of a storybook. It’s simple, cheerful, and exactly the kind of touch that makes Disney Springs an easy place to linger a little longer.
This year, the hats are officially back, and guests are already stopping to take pictures before hopping on for a ride. It’s not a dramatic overhaul, but it’s one of those updates that fans genuinely look forward to. It signals that the holiday season at Disney Springs is officially in full swing.
A Carousel With Classic Disney Charm
The Marketplace Carousel isn’t a flashy attraction, but that’s part of what makes it so special. It’s a Venetian-style merry-go-round with 16 handcrafted horses—some that rock, some that jump—plus two ornate carriages and even a spinning teacup that adds a fun bit of whimsy. It’s designed for all ages, and anyone can ride, whether they’re out for the day or just browsing the shops nearby.
The ride lasts about two minutes and is open from morning to late evening most days, which makes it perfect for families who want a quick, inexpensive dose of magic without committing to a full park day. Pricing is simple as well: one ride is $5, two rides are $10, and six rides cost $20. A nice bonus? If a child under 42 inches tall wants to ride, one adult can join them for free.
Why This Update Matters to Guests
Disney Springs has become a destination in its own right, and each season brings new food options, entertainment, and festive decorations. But the carousel’s yearly transformation is one that longtime visitors recognize immediately. It’s a constant in a place that keeps reinventing itself.
Disney didn’t have to confirm the return of the holiday hats—this could’ve been a quiet update—but acknowledging it speaks to how much guests appreciate these tiny traditions. In a season filled with major events, towering trees, and big nighttime offerings, this is a small detail that still manages to stand out.
A Tradition That Keeps Growing Stronger
Some updates at Walt Disney World spark debate, but this one earns nothing but smiles. The Marketplace Carousel may not be a headline attraction, but the holiday hats have become a fan-favorite detail that people now expect—and look forward to.
As the Christmas season gets rolling at Disney Springs, you’ll see crowds gathering for shopping, treats, and entertainment, but don’t be surprised if the carousel has its own little audience. It’s amazing how much joy a festive hat can bring when it’s paired with Disney nostalgia and a beautifully lit evening at the Springs.
If you’re visiting sometime soon, make sure to walk by and take in the holiday charm for yourself. It’s one of those moments that captures exactly why people keep returning to Walt Disney World—small, thoughtful touches that make the season feel extra merry.