Where Christmas Wishes Come True: Our Disney World Holiday
Hi guys!
We wrapped up last year in the most magical way possible — spending Christmas at Walt Disney World with family! This trip was extra special because we got to experience the parks during the holiday season (which is truly next-level Disney magic). Between festive decor, family memories, amazing food, and squeezing in a little luxury relaxation, it was the perfect way to close out the year and soak in time with the people we love most.
We traveled with my in-laws and the kids, and let me just say… navigating Disney during the busiest time of the year might sound wild, but honestly? It was one of our favorite family trips yet. If you’ve ever wondered whether Disney at Christmas is worth it, I’m breaking down everything — travel, where we stayed, what we did, and a few tips that helped us enjoy the experience without stressing ourselves out.
Let’s get into it!
✈️ Travel & Getting Around Orlando
Traveling as a family can feel like a full production, but this trip honestly felt smooth from start to finish.
We flew Delta into Orlando, which is always one of our go-to airlines for comfort and reliability — especially when traveling with kids. Once we landed, we used Turo for our rental car, and I HIGHLY recommend this option if you want flexibility and convenience. It made getting between Disney, the hotel, and our off-property activities super easy.
➡️ Shop my travel look on my LTK here!
🏨 Where We Stayed: Gaylord Palms Resort
If you’ve never stayed at Gaylord Palms during the holidays, it is an experience all on its own. The resort completely transforms into a winter wonderland, and it honestly felt like we were stepping into Christmas magic the moment we walked in.
The decorations were stunning, the atmosphere was festive, and there was so much for the kids to explore. One of our favorite experiences was visiting the ICE! sculpture exhibit on our last day — it was such a fun and unique way to wrap up the trip. The kids were fascinated by the ice carvings, and it truly felt like a holiday memory we’ll never forget.
The resort gave us the perfect balance of relaxation and family fun, which was exactly what we needed after long Disney park days.
🎢 Conquering Disney During Christmas Season
Okay… let’s talk about Disney during one of the busiest times of the year.
My biggest tip (and maybe an unpopular opinion)… just go.
You don’t have to have every single second planned out. You don’t have to overpack your itinerary. Some of our best memories came from just going with the vibes, enjoying the atmosphere, and letting the kids lead the excitement.
The parks were absolutely beautiful decorated for Christmas — from the lights to the music to the overall energy, it really felt like stepping into a holiday movie. We rode rides, explored different parks, and of course… tried ALL the food because you already know Disney snacks are part of the experience.
🍪 Disney Food & Treats
One thing about us… we are going to try the snacks.
Disney during Christmas has some of the cutest and most festive treats, and the kids were fully committed to taste-testing everything. From sweet treats to seasonal drinks, it added so much fun to our park days and honestly became part of the adventure itself.
If you’re going during the holidays, definitely give yourself time to explore the food booths and seasonal menus — it’s part of the Disney magic.
⛸️ Luxury Break: Ritz-Carlton Ice Skating & Spa
One of my favorite parts of the trip was sneaking in a little luxury family time outside of the parks. We visited the Ritz-Carlton for ice skating and spa relaxation, and it was such a beautiful experience.
The ice skating was magical, festive, and honestly felt like something straight out of a holiday movie. It gave us a chance to slow down, be present, and enjoy time together without the park rush.
👗 Disney Style & Family Moments
You already know I had to show up with cute, comfy Disney fits! When you’re doing long park days, comfort is key — but we still kept it stylish and fun. I also loved incorporating subtle Disney jewelry and accessories to pull the looks together.
The kids had their own adorable park outfits too, and I’m linking all of our Disney outfits, accessories, and park must-haves in my LTK.
➡️ Shop our Disney looks + jewelry + accessories on my LTK here!
🧳 Kids Travel Essentials That Saved Us
Traveling with kids means preparation is everything, and these travel essentials truly made the trip smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.
From entertainment for flights to park day must-haves, these items kept the kids happy, comfortable, and ready for all the Disney fun.
➡️ Shop kids travel essentials on my LTK here!
❤️ Final Thoughts
This trip was the perfect way to close out the year. Spending Christmas surrounded by family, watching the kids experience Disney magic, and creating memories together reminded me how important it is to slow down and truly enjoy the moments that matter.
Disney during Christmas is busy, yes… but it’s also incredibly special. Sometimes you don’t need the perfect itinerary — sometimes you just need to show up, be present, and let the memories happen naturally.
Heading into the new year, this trip reminded me how much I value experiences, intentional time with family, and creating a life that feels full, joyful, and meaningful. I’m so excited to share more soon about how I’m carrying that energy into this year and elevating everyday lifestyle moments in a way that still feels realistic and attainable.
If you’re planning a Disney trip — especially during the holidays — I say go for it. And if you want to shop any of our outfits, travel essentials, or Disney favorites, everything is linked on my LTK ➡️ @iambeauticurve
Until next time,
xoxo,
Ro
