Candlelight Processional at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays
What is the Candlelight Processional?
A Disney tradition in its 54th year (2024), the Candlelight Processional is a moving presentation of the Christmas story in readings by a celebrity narrator and music by a mass choir and 50-piece orchestra.
Where and when does it take place?
This event takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase in EPCOT. The Candlelight Processional is a must do at the festival and will happen three times each night at 5PM, 6:45PM, and 8:15PM. The show is a retelling of the story of Christmas featuring an incredible orchestra, choir, and celebrity narrator!
Who are the narrators?
The following is the list of narrators for 2024:
- 11/29 – 11/30 Josh Gad
- 12/1 – 12/2 Nico Santos (New)
- 12/3-12/5 Chrissy Metz
- 12/6 – 12/7 Whoopi Goldberg
- 12/8 – 12/10 Tituss Burgess (New)
- 12/11 – 12/12 Brendan Fraser
- 12/13 – 12/14 Ralph Macchio (New)
- 12/15 – 12/16 Gary Sinise
- 12/17 – 12/18 Neil Patrick Harris
- 12/19 – 12/21 Pat Sajak
- 12/22 – 12/23 Gloria Estefan
- 12/24 – 12/26 Edward James Olmos
- 12/27 – 12/28 Sterling K Brown
- 12/29 – 12/30 Jodi Benson
*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. EPCOT admission is required and not included in the dining package price.
Logistics
Candlelight Processional performances are included in your admission to EPCOT. There is, however, typically a dining package available for purchase that includes a ticket to Reserved Seating for the Candlelight Processional. You can also usually get a dining package at select restaurants on a first-come, first-serve basis on the day of your visit. That costs extra and is optional.
Seating without the dining package is on a first-come, first-serve basis for each show. Folks line up 45 minutes (longer as you get closer to Christmas) before showtime. Generally, fifteen minutes prior to the show, seating is then opened up to those in line. Also, keep in mind if you wait in line for the second or third show of the night, that you will be hearing the show before yours as it is performed.
You can always stroll by the America Gardens Theatre in the World Showcase to listen to the music and wonders of Christmas if you prefer not to wait in line or to sit for a full 40-minute show.
If you wish to purchase the dining package (explained below) with reserved seating, there is a charge.
Candlelight Processional Dining Package
Candlelight Dining Packages typically include lunch or dinner at a select EPCOT restaurant, plus guaranteed general seating at the America Gardens Theatre during the Candlelight Processional. Packages typically include a three-course meal (appetizer, entree, dessert, and non-alcoholic beverage) OR one full buffet, where applicable.
There are eight restaurants announced for Dining Packages in 2023.
In 2024, Advance Dining Reservations for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages can be booked online starting October 29th, 2024.
Candlelight Processional Dining Package Locations
In 2024, Disney announced the following locations for Dining Packages:
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall Restaurant — Adults B: $71, L&D: $83 / Kids B: $45, L&D: $53
- Biergarten Restaurant — Adults $65 / Kids $37
- Coral Reef Restaurant — Adults $78 / Kids $32
- Garden Grill Restaurant — Adults B: $63, L&D: $78 / Kids B: 40, L&D: $50
- Le Cellier Steakhouse — Adults $104 / Kids $42
- Spice Road Table — Adults $55 / Kids $24
- 2 small plates and one nonalcoholic beverage per person, plus a tagine and dessert platter for your party to share
- Rose & Crown Dining Room — Adults $66 / Kids $29
Regal Eagle Smokehouse offers Dining Packages. These are day-of, first come/first serve options — read more here.
For more information about the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays or to book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package, visit EPCOTHolidays.com or call 407-WDW-DINE (939-3463).
*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Theme park admission is required.
Packages are paid for at the individual restaurants. Guests are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their reservation to check–in. Guests will receive Candlelight Seating badges at the restaurant for guaranteed seating at the America Gardens Theatre for the booked show time.
