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A Magical Journey Through Disney Springs' Christmas Tree Stroll 2025
- Melisa Kennedy
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
As the crisp Florida air takes on a hint of holiday magic and the first lights of the season flicker to life, there's no better place to kick off your Yuletide adventures than Disney Springs.
Nestled in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort, this vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment district transforms into a winter wonderland each year. And for 2025, the beloved Christmas Tree Stroll is back, bigger and more enchanting than ever—inviting guests to embark on a free, self-guided scavenger hunt through a forest of whimsically themed evergreens. Whether you're a die-hard Disney fan, a family seeking festive fun, or simply someone who can't resist a perfectly decorated tree, this stroll promises to sprinkle your visit with joy, nostalgia, and a dash of pixie dust.
If you're planning a trip (or just daydreaming about one), read on for everything you need to know about this holiday highlight, from dates and details to standout trees and insider tips. Trust me—once you experience it, you'll be counting down the days until next year's lights go up.
When and Where: Your Ticket to Holiday Cheer
The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by Advent Health officially runs from November 13, 2025, through January 4, 2026, aligning perfectly with the broader Walt Disney World holiday season that spans November 14 to December 31. Trees are on display daily during Disney Springs' operating hours, typically from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (with some variations by neighborhood—check the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates).
No park tickets required! This makes it an ideal outing for locals, resort guests, or anyone looking to escape the theme park crowds for a more relaxed festive vibe. Presented free of charge, the stroll weaves through all four neighborhoods of Disney Springs: The Landing, The Marketplace, Town Center, and West Side. You'll spot over 20 meticulously decorated trees scattered along walkways, near shops, and outside eateries. To make it interactive, grab a complimentary scavenger hunt map at key locations like the World of Disney store, the Visitor Center, or select restaurants. Each map comes with stickers to mark your finds—collect them all, and redeem your completed booklet for a special 2025 keepsake ornament (this year's design features a green and blue plaid pattern with the event logo and a festive red ribbon).
*Pro tip: Maps are limited, so snag one early! We picked ours up at The Polite Pig and stayed to grab a yummy bite to eat! Then we returned to The Polite Pig to pick up our free little ornament after we completed the map.
For tech-savvy explorers, the trees are also pinpointed on the digital Disney Springs map in the My Disney Experience app, complete with photos and fun facts. It's like having a holographic guide in your pocket—because who wouldn't want that?
The Stars of the Stroll: Iconic Trees That Steal the Show
What sets the Christmas Tree Stroll apart isn't just the quantity of trees—it's the creativity. Each one is a mini-masterpiece, crafted by Disney's talented artisans to celebrate beloved characters, films, and franchises. Drawing from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Broadway, these displays blend twinkling lights, handmade ornaments, and immersive storytelling elements that transport you straight into the magic. While the full lineup evolves annually, 2025 brings a mix of returning favorites and fresh designs that have guests buzzing.
Here are some highlights based on early reveals and fan favorites:
- Disney Villains Tree (New for 2025): A wickedly wonderful newcomer lurking in the West Side, this tree is draped in shadowy garlands, poison apple ornaments, and mischievous details from icons like Maleficent, Ursula, and Cruella de Vil. Perfect for those who love a little holiday mischief—snap a photo here if you're feeling villainous!
- Frozen Tree (Refreshed for 2025): Nestled near The Landing, this icy spectacle sparkles with Arendelle-inspired crystals, snowflake garlands, and mini Elsa figurines mid-"Let It Go." It's a frosty favorite that feels even more immersive this year, with LED "snow" effects that make it glow under the evening lights.
- Fantasia Tree (New for 2025): A symphony of magic in the Town Center, featuring whimsical mushrooms, dancing hippos in tutus, and conductor's baton toppers. The orchestral theme is brought to life with subtle light projections—pure artistry for animation aficionados.
- The Haunted Mansion Tree (Returning Fan Favorite): Eerie elegance meets holiday haunt in The Marketplace. Draped in black lace "cobwebs," flickering ghost lanterns, and hitchhiking ghost ornaments, it's a spine-tingling tribute that's equal parts spooky and spirited. Disney confirmed its return early, and it's already a social media sensation.
- Encanto Tree: Vibrant and familial, this one bursts with magical realism—candle motifs, butterfly accents, and colorful casita-inspired baubles. A heartfelt nod to the Madrigal family's enchantment.
- Coco Tree: Alebrijes, marigold garlands, and guitar ornaments honor the vibrant spirit of Día de los Muertos blended with Christmas cheer. It's a cultural celebration that warms the heart.
- The Lion King on Broadway Tree: Regal and roaring with Pride Lands motifs, from Simba's mane of lights to hyena silhouettes. A theatrical triumph!
Other returning gems include The Nightmare Before Christmas (complete with zero-shaped ornaments and skeletal reindeer), The Princess and the Frog (bayou bay leaves and beignet garlands), Star Wars (lightsaber toppers and Yoda holly), Donald Duck (sailor-hat snowflakes), Disney Cruise Line (anchor bells and porthole props), and a grand Town Tree anchoring the center. Even the Sphere Tree adds a modern twist with geometric LED orbs. With so many to discover, plan for at least an hour—or longer if you stop for photos (and you will).
Beyond the Branches: Holiday Magic All Around
The Christmas Tree Stroll is just the evergreen heart of Disney Springs' holiday festivities. As you wander, immerse yourself in the full seasonal symphony:
- Nightly Snowfall: From sundown, "snow" gently falls over The Landing—courtesy of Disney's high-tech flurries. Bundle up (Florida-style) and watch families delight in the faux flakes.
- Santa Claus Meet & Greet: Jolly old Saint Nick holds court daily through December 24 (11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.), with Santa Goofy taking over December 25-30. Use the My Disney Experience app for virtual queues and capture the moment with PhotoPass pros.
- Live Entertainment: Catch toy soldier stilt walkers, snowflake rollerbladers, a holiday drum line, or brass bands performing carols. On select evenings, local acts grace the Waterside Stage—grab a hot cocoa and let the music wrap around you.
- Themed Dining & Shopping: Fuel your stroll with holiday treats like gingerbread lattes or the returning Holiday Cookie Stroll at EPCOT (but snag previews at spots like Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, transformed into a festive aviation-themed lounge). Shop for exclusive ornaments, apparel, and gifts amid decked-out storefronts. And don't miss the Stitch’s Holiday Gift Hunt, another free scavenger hunt pairing perfectly with the trees—find hidden plushies for prizes!
Why You Can't Miss It: A Personal Plea from a Tree-Lover (that's me!)
I've strolled these tree paths at Disney Springs more times than I can count, and each year, the Christmas Tree Stroll feels like rediscovering childhood wonder. I kind of miss it when they had all the trees together on a winding pathway behind the Days of Christmas store however. But I understand that Disney Springs want guests to roam the entire property to see all the shops and restaurants too.
There's something profoundly comforting about pausing amid the bustle to admire a tree that whispers stories of your favorite films—it's a reminder that magic isn't just for kids. In 2025, with its bold new additions like the Villains and Fantasia trees, it's poised to be the most creative yet. Plus, it's accessible: Free parking in the Orange and Lime Garages, stroller-friendly paths, and endless photo ops for Instagram-worthy memories.
Whether you're wrapping up a park day or making it a standalone evening, this event captures the essence of Disney holidays—joyful, inclusive, and utterly unforgettable.
So, lace up your holiday kicks, download that app, and let the stroll begin. The trees are waiting, and so is the magic.
What's your must-see tree this year? Drop us a comment below—I'd love to hear your holiday plans! For more Disney Springs inspo, follow along on our Instagram or X.
Merry strolling! 🎄✨
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