Prepare to elevate your holiday experience at Walt Disney World. During Disney Jollywood Nights, which debuted as a new holiday event last year, guests have the opportunity to witness live shows featuring beloved Disney characters, unique photo ops, merchandise, and more. Your taste buds will be put to work with a wide array of delicious treats and craft cocktails available exclusively during Jollywood Nights. From themed snacks to refreshing beverages, there is something for every palate to enjoy while exploring the park’s ambiance during this special event.
One of the highlights of Disney Jollywood Nights is the reduced wait times for popular attractions, allowing you to experience more rides and entertainment without long queues. Take advantage of this perk to maximize your time in the park, but also take time to enjoy exclusive offerings like character encounters, shows, and food.
What to Expect at Jollywood Nights 2024
- Fun Entertainment: Enjoy special shows like “Glisten!” skating show, “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along,” and “Holidays in Hollywood” with Kermit and Miss Piggy.
- Small-Group Experiences: Take part in the cozy Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby and the Twilight Soirée at The Tip-Top Club. Enjoy holiday music with a live band at each location.
- Special Character Meetings: Say hello to beloved characters like Santa Duffy, King Louie from TaleSpin, and Edna Mode from The Incredibles.
- Holiday Snacks and Drinks: Treat yourself to special event items like buffalo chicken spring rolls, Joffrey’s Coffee cold brew (made with and without alcohol), and a charcuterie cup made from toasted focaccia crostini.
- Shorter Ride Waits: Enjoy the holiday spirit with shorter lines for popular rides like Slinky Dog Dash and Rise of the Resistance.
Tips for Your First Time at Jollywood Nights
Attending Disney Jollywood Nights takes some planning to have a great time. First, check the basic details like the dates, prices, and how to arrive. Look at the entertainment schedule to find the shows and character greetings you really want to see. It’s a good idea to book a table for special events like Jazzy Holidays or to get an early spot in the courtyard of the Hollywood Tower Hotel for the Twilight Soirée.
To get into the Jollywood mood, think about wearing your favorite holiday clothes! Whether you want a little sparkle or a complete holiday look, dressing up makes the event even more fun. Don’t forget to bring comfy shoes, a phone charger, and an autograph book for when you meet characters.
Must-Haves for This Holiday Event
Navigating the fun of Disney Jollywood Nights is easy if you have a few important things. First, your event ticket is your key to this special party. Keep it handy, either on your phone or as a printed ticket.
Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle. There are water fountains and all quick service restaurants will offer free cups of water to refill your bottle as well. A portable phone charger will help you take photos, check showtimes using the My Disney Experience app, and browse the downloads of your PhotoPass photos from the event.
Finally, remember to bring your holiday spirit! You can wear something festive, like a Christmas sweater, but don’t forget Disney’s Hollywood Studios is in Florida. The weather in November and December can be unpredictable, so it might be best to dress in layers.
Tips for First-Timers: Maximizing Your Experience
If you are going to Disney Jollywood Nights for the first time, some tips can help you enjoy every special moment. When you get there, pick up an event map and list the activities you want to do.
Here are some quick tips for newcomers:
- Arrive early to get the most out of the event’s longer hours and enjoy early entry if you have a ticket.
- Use the shorter wait times for rides, especially during the fireworks.
- Try the unique foods available all over the park.
Keep in mind that being spontaneous is part of the fun. Having a plan is good, but feel free to explore and find new surprises. Enjoy the happy atmosphere, and most importantly, do what you want to do!
Step-by-Step Guide to Enjoying Jollywood Nights
Let’s look at an easy step-by-step guide to make the most of your Disney Jollywood Nights experience. Start by getting your tickets. Simple, but it can be forgotten in the press to plan your trip. Much like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Jollywood Nights is a separately ticketed event, meaning a regular park ticket will not grant you access. It is an extra expense.
By following these steps, you will be ready to enjoy Disney Jollywood Nights. So, gather your family and friends, wear your holiday outfits, and go on an amazing holiday adventure!
Step 1: Purchase Tickets and Plan Your Visit
Securing your tickets in advance is crucial, as this exclusive event has limited capacity. Tickets can be purchased online through the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app. When selecting a date, consider your schedule and budget as prices vary based on the night.
- November 9: $169
- November 13: $159
- November 16: $169
- November 18: $159
- November 23: $179
- November 25: $179
- November 30: $179
- December 2: $169
- December 7: $179
- December 11: $179
- December 14: $179
- December 18: $179
- December 21: $179
Once you have your tickets, it’s time to plan your visit. Start by browsing the event map to identify must-do activities like the exclusive entertainment offerings, character meet-and-greets, and special dining options. Factor in travel time between locations, and remember to allow for spontaneous moments of magic as you explore.
Step 2: Select Must-See Attractions and Shows
With so many fun things to do, picking your favorite attractions and shows is important for a great Jollywood Nights experience. If you love excitement, you should try popular rides like Slinky Dog Dash, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. These usually have shorter wait times on event night.
Join the fun at “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along.” You’ll sing along with Jack Skellington in a spooky and fun adventure. Also, check out the new show “Glisten!,” an ice-skating performance that features international champion skaters, original songs, and Disney favorites like “Be Our Guest” and “When You Wish Upon a Star.”
For something heartwarming, you can watch “Disney Holidays in Hollywood” at the Theater of the Stars. Kermit, Miss Piggy, and many beloved Disney characters will come together for a lovely holiday show.
Step 3: Explore Exclusive Event Food and Merchandise
Treat your taste buds to a variety of special event food and drinks made to please everyone. There are savory snacks like Yuca con Chicharron, which is fried pork belly, yuca fries, red pickled onions, and chili-lime seasoning with a yellow pepper aioli, at the ABC Commissary or the Holiday Turkey Popover at Fairfax Fare. If you’re in the mood for dessert, try the new caramel-mocha Napolean at PizzeRizzo, which is layers of puff pastry and caramel mascarpone cream with a whipped croffee cremeux, saled caramel crispy pearls, chocolate curl, and sprinkles.
Adult beverages choices are plentiful on event night. My favorite Sugar Cookie Martini is making a return, but there are also plenty of new drinks like Holiday Cheer, which is aperol aperitif, vodka Sprite, wild cherry syrup, and house-made rosemary simple syrup with an orange slice and a rosemary sprig. For those looking for a festive drink without alcohol, the new drink The Sleigh Bell features ginger beer, rosemary syrup, pomegrante juice cranberry juice, and lime juice.
No Disney trip is finished without some souvenir shopping on Commissary Lane. Check out the event-only items, like clothes, ornaments, and accessories that capture the fun of Disney Jollywood Nights and the festive spirit of the holiday season. Look for special edition things that you can only get at this wonderful event, such as the new Ollie Ears that feature the event’s mascot.
For a special dining treat, make a reservation for Jazzy Holidays at the famous Hollywood Brown Derby. This revamped jazz club has live music, themed drinks, and a tasty menu of small plates perfect for sharing.
What Are the Dates for Jollywood Nights?
Jollywood Nights takes place on select nights from November 9th to December 21st, 2024. It will happen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. This event is a separately ticketed event, and it has limited capacity. You should buy tickets in advance to make sure you get a spot.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices for Jollywood Nights depend on the date. They cost between $159 and $179 for each person, whether adult or child. Keep in mind that this is a separately ticketed event. Regular park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is not included.
Can I Meet Characters During the Event?
Yes! You can see your favorite Disney characters all dressed up for the holidays during the event. You might even get to see Santa himself! Make sure to look at the event guide for where and when to meet them. Characters will be found in places like Animation Courtyard, Echo Lake, and Pixar Place.
What Special Shows and Attractions Are Available?
Jollywood Nights offers special shows and fun for guests. You can see the “Glisten!” skating show on Hollywood Boulevard. Don’t miss “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along” at the Hyperion Theater. You can also have a great time at “Holidays in Hollywood” on Sunset Boulevard. End the evening by watching the nightly fireworks show “Jingle Bell, Jingle Bam.”
I’m Sarah, and you’ve landed on my website, On the Road with Sarah. This is where I share travel stories, tips, and so much more!
