Candlelight Processional 2019: Updated with Narrator List

The Candlelight Processional is personally one of my favorite holiday events that takes place at Disney World's Epcot. There's nothing like seeing a favorite celebrity read off the story of a savior being born, accompanied by an orchestra and a choir to fill you with the holiday spirit. This is a must for anyone who is not in the holiday spirit and might need a little help. My family has enjoyed each time,  as each narrator and restaurant makes each experience unique. It is a must do at least once. So to help you and your family enjoy this event we have compiled some information.

What is the Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional is the biblical telling of a savior born in Bethlehem. The story is narrated by a celebrity.  It also includes a fifty piece orchestra and a full choir who enhance the story by filling the amphitheater with amazing music and beautiful harmonies. 

Where is the Candlelight Processional located?

First you need to head to Epcot. Then head back to the World Showcase. Next make your way  to the American Pavilion. It is located at the American Garden's Theater.

What is the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package?

The Candlelight Processional Dinner package is where you or your travel agent will call and make an advanced dining reservation (ADR) to one of the participating restaurants. You can book these packages up to 180 days in advance of your arrival. You will dine at your selected reservation time at the restaurant you choose from the participating restaurants. The package includes a 3 course meal or a full buffet for lunch or dinner depending on the restaurant you choose. At that time you will also select your show time.  You will then pay for the package at the restaurant  or use your dining plan.  Prices for the packages start at around $52 plus for lunch and $57 plus for dinner and may be higher depending on restaurant. If you choose to use your dining plan it will be two table credits. You will receive a sticker that you wear that has your showtime on it when you pay. This package will get you a guaranteed seat inside the pavilion to see the show. Just remember some narrators are more popular than others and those packages tend to sell out quicker.

Participating Restaurants:

Ale & Compass*
Biergarten 

Chef de France

Coral Reef Restaurant

The Garden Grill* 

La Hacienda de San Angel

Nine Dragons
Restaurant Marrakesh

Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room

San Angel Inn Restaurante
Spice Road Table

Teppan Edo

Tokyo Dining
Trattoria al Forno* 

Tutto Italia Ristorante

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
*Breakfast Package Available

What if I don't do the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package?

I just want to say from experience that skipping the package may hurt your chances of being able to see the show. At the American Garden's Theater there will be two lines. One line is for those that have bought the dinner package and will be guaranteed a seat. They will be let in first. The second line in the stand-by line. If the theater does not fill up they will let the standby line in to stand in the back. However, I have seen them turn standby lines away before.

Narrators for 2019:

• Ming-Na Wan
• November 29 through December 1
• Neil Patrick Harris
• December 2 through December 5
• Whoopi Goldberg
•  December 6 and 7 
• Isabella Rossellini
• December 8 through 10
• TBD 
• December 11 through 12 
• Gary Sinise
• December 13 through 15
• Pat Sajak
• December 16 through 18
• TBD
• December 19 through 21
• Steven Curtis Chapman
• December 22 through 24
• Edward James Olmos
• December 25 and 26
• Marlee Matlin
• December 27 and 28
• Lisa Ling
• December 29 and 30

Other Tips:

• This event does not require a separate ticket. However you will need admission to Epcot and that admission price is not included in your dining package.
• Seating at the Candlelight Processional is first come first serve unless you have reserved a Candlelight Processional Dinner Package.
• The show times are at 5 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM 
• Narrators are subject to change
• For best pictures of your narrator do not sit in the first three rows and sit more towards the middle.

I have personally seen Neil Patrick Harris,Trace Adkins and Edward James Olmos. All of the gentleman were amazing in their telling of the story. I do not think you can choose a bad narrator because they are telling a beautiful story. Our first year we chose to dine at Rose & Crown. The food was delicious but my children were not crazy about it. The next two times we ate at Via Napoli and that was a hit with my children. We are going this year as well. Our narrator again is Edward James Olmos and we will be choosing Via Napoli. Have you been to the Candlelight Processional? I would love to know who your narrator was and where you chose to eat for your package? Will you be attending this year?

Amanda Hansel is a self proclaimed Disney nerd who has 2 boys. She is also a travel agent with Snapshot Getaways. You can find her on Facebook and on Twitter. She would love to hear from you or chat about Disney with you.

Christmas in the Rest of "The World"

Everyone knows that the Magic Kingdom is the place to be during the holidays.  At least everyone that read my last article, Christmas in the Magic Kingdom.  Now, I'm going to continue my Christmas series and discuss what happens during the Holiday season at Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney.

Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney is like Santa's Workshop.  Everything you need to fill your stockings surrounds you at every turn.  If I had an unlimited shopping experience at Downtown Disney my first stop would be the LEGO imagination center.  Actually it's where my husband and kids would blow the most money.  They would stock up on unique Lego pieces and then get a set to put together when they got home.  Me, well I would take my half and spend it all at Once Upon a Toy and Disney's Day of Christmas.  Once Upon a Toy is where I would splurge on some Mr. Potato Head pieces (for my sons of course) and get a few board games for the upcoming winter months.  Disney's Days of Christmas store not only has ornaments, but holiday goodies such as cocoa, chocolate and cookies.  Great gifts to bring home for those unlucky enough not to be at Disney with you.  Everywhere you turn there is a variety of one of a kind shops to make everyones holiday merrier.

After  you've completed your holiday shopping, Downtown Disney boasts some holiday events.  Here is where you will find the big man himself, Santa Claus.  Starting November 14th through New Years Day (times vary), you can meet Santa and give him your wish list in his chalet.  Note:  In past years, December 25th through January 1st, Santa was replaced by Santa Goofy.  My guess is that Santa has a few things to do?  Santa's Village is located next to the World of Disney Store.  Purchase a cocoa at Ghirardelli and stroll through to take in the lights, stilted Toy Soldiers and Holiday musical
performances.  Treat your children to a ride on the small holiday train or the elegant carousel.

Mickey Mom's Tip:  Have someone stay with your children and make a night of it.  Either use Disney's childcare options or beg Grandma to put them to bed.  Then head out to do your shopping in peace and privacy.  Enjoy a couples dinner at any of the fantastic restaurants in Downtown Disney.



Hollywood Studios

Like the other parks, Hollywood Studios has a specially decorated tree at its entrance.  Covered in movie feel and old reels, reminding you where Disney began.  However, the reason to visit Hollywood Studios at Christmas is the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.  Jennings Osborne from Arkansas once has an extravagant display of Christmas lights and decorations.  So much so that he purchased the property next to his so that he could make his display larger.   In 1995 Jennings decided to give all his lights and decorations to Disney so they would be on permanent display during the holiday season.  I think there might have been some push from the local residents in his hometown to make this happen.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is not to be missed.  The show begins at dusk and ends at midnight, beginning November 7th and is included with your admission to Hollywood Studios.  Every building in the Streets of America section is covered in millions of lights and lighted sculpture.  There are lights between the buildings and over your head. Every 10 minutes or so these lights are set to music and the magic begins.  Grab a hot cocoa and take it all in.  I can't seem to find the words to express how breathtaking this experience is. If you are lucky, your evening will be capped off by a little Disney "snow.

Mickey Mom's Tip:  This is not to be missed if you are in Disney for the holidays.  Make the evening special by treating yourself to a cocoa and a holiday dessert.  Then find a park bench in the Streets of America.  There are tons of hidden gems in the show, so don't forget to look at the windows on the buildings.

Animal Kingdom

Of all the parks, there is definitely less of the "typical" Christmas characteristic here; more organic but magical none the less. When visiting you will notice less of the holiday decor for the protection of the inhabitants and considering the theme of the Animal Kingdom. That is not excuse not to make a visit during your holiday trip. Their Tree is filled with African and Asian art pieces, animal themed of course. 

Mickey Mom's Tip: The characters at Adventurers Outpost will be in their holiday costumes. Swing by for a unique photo opportunity that will be sure to remind you of your special trip to Disney.



Epcot

Epcot during Christmas is one of my favorite places. This is actually where we spent Christmas Day during our trip. It was less crowded and we had our Christmas Dinner at Le Cellier in the Canada Pavilion. Epcot has many special events during the holiday season. The most popular is the Candlelight Processional. The story of Christmas is read by celebrity narrators and accompanied by an orchestra and choir. In 2014 it will be held nightly from November 29th to December 30th at the American Gardens Theater. Times are 5pm, 6:45pm and 8:15pm, but get there early to get a seat. This performance is free with your paid Epcot admission, but Candlelight Processional Dinner Packages are also available for an additional cost. Your reservation will guarantee seating and premium fireworks viewing. They include a meal of your choice at many Epcot restaurants. Reservations can be made with your Disney Travel Planner or by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE and selecting "special dining events". Tickets are on sale now. At of this time here are the announced celebrity narrators:

2014 Candlelight Processional

Another reason to make time at Epcot during the holidays is to tour the World Showcase. Each pavilion boats a Storyteller who shares to traditions of Christmas in their country. Each Storyteller takes a different approach to entertaining the visitors. In Mexico the Three Kings put on a show and in China they share how the New Years celebration is most important to them. Several pavilions boast a Santa Claus, La Befana (Italy) or Father Christmas in detail detailed costume. In 2014 from November 29th through December 30th, Storytellers are available daily. Santa and Mrs. Claus can be seen in the American Pavilion from November 29th to December 24th.  Check your times guides for a schedule when you arrive at the park. Each pavilion also sells in their shops treats, ornaments and holiday treasure that you will not find anywhere else without a passport.





Mickey Mom's Tip: If you children still believe in Santa be sure to have some answers to their questions about all the different Santa's. We told our son that these were just actors pretending to be Santa and that the real Santa changes his clothes depending on which country he visits. Just be ready for THAT question!

Are you looking to book a Holiday vacation to Walt Disney World?  Contact me at maria@snapshotgetaways.com for a quote.

Candlelight Processional 2014 with Updated Narrators!

The Candlelight Processional is personally one of my favorite holiday events that takes place at Epcot at Walt Disney World.  There is nothing like seeing a favorite celebrity read off the story of a savior being born, accompanied by an orchestra and a choir to fill you with the holiday spirit. This is a must for anyone who is not in the holiday spirit and might need a little help. My family has enjoyed each time,  as each narrator and restaurant makes each experience unique. It is a must do at least once. So to help you and your family enjoy this event we have compiled some information.

What is the Candlelight Processional?

The Candlelight Processional is the biblical telling of a savior born in Bethlehem. The story is narrated by a celebrity.  It also includes a fifty piece orchestra and a full choir who enhance the story by filling the amphitheater with amazing music and beautiful harmonies. 

Where is the Candlelight Processional located?

First you need to head to Epcot. Then head back to the World Showcase. Next make your way  to the American Pavilion. It is located at the American Garden's Theater.

What is the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package?

The Candlelight Processional Dinner package is where you or your travel agent will call and make an advanced dining reservation (ADR) to one of the participating restaurants. You can book these packages up to 180 days in advance of your arrival. You will dine at your selected reservation time at the restaurant you choose from the participating restaurants. The package includes a 3 course meal or a full buffet for lunch or dinner depending on the restaurant you choose. You will then pay for the package at the restaurant  or use your dining plan.  Prices for the packages start at around $30 plus for lunch and $ 50 plus for dinner and may be higher depending on restaurant. If you choose to use your dining plan it will with be one or two table credits depending on restaurant.You will receive a sticker that you wear that has your showtime on it when you pay. This package will get you a guaranteed seat inside the pavilion to see the show. Just remember some narrators are more popular than others and those packages tend to sell out quicker.

Participating Restaurants:

Biergarten

Chef de France

Coral Reef Restaurant

The Garden Grill

Nine Dragons Restaurant  

La Hacienda de San Angel

Restaurant Marrakesha

Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room

San Angel Inn Restaurants

Teppan Edo

Tokyo Dining

Tutto Italia Ristorante

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria

What if I don't do the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package?

I just want to say from experience that skipping the package may hurt your chances of being able to see the show. At the American Garden's Theater there will be two lines. One line is for those that have bought the dinner package and will be guaranteed a seat. They will be let in first. The second line in the stand-by line. If the theater does not fill up they will let the standby line in to stand in the back. However, I have seen them turn standby lines away before.

Narrators for 2014:

• Jodi Benson November 28 and 29, 2014
• Neil Patrick Harris November 30 to December 2, 2014
• Jonathan  Groff December 3 and 4, 2014
• Whoopi Goldberg December 5 and 6, 2014
• TBD December 7 to December 9, 2014
• TBD December 9 to December 11, 2014
• Joe Morton December 12 to December 14, 2014
• Chita Rivera December 15 to December 17, 2014
• Ana Gasteyer December 18 to December 20, 2014
• Marlee Matlin December 21 to December 23, 2014
• Isabella Rossellini December 24 and 25, 2014
• Blair Underwood December 26 and 27, 2014
• Steven Curtis Chapman December 28 to December 30, 201                                                      As narrators are announced for the  TBA dates we will be sure to keep you posted.

Other Tips:

• This event does not require a separate ticket. However you will need admission to Epcot and that admission price is not included in your dining package.
• Seating at the Candlelight Processional is first come first serve unless you have reserved a Candlelight Processional Dinner Package.
• The show times are at 5 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM except on 12/7/2014, where there will only be a 6:45 PM and 8:15 PM.
• Narrators are subject to change
• For best pictures of your narrator do not sit in the first three rows and sit more towards the middle.

I have personally seen Neil Patrick Harris and Trace Adkins. Both gentleman were amazing in their telling of the story. I do not think you can choose a bad narrator because they are telling a beautiful story. One year we chose to dine at Rose & Crown. The food was delicious but my children were not crazy about it. The next time we ate at Via Napoli and that was a hit with my children. We are going this year as well. Our narrator is TBA at this time and we will be choosing Via Napoli again. Have you been to the Candlelight Processional? I would love to know who your narrator was and where you chose to eat for your package? Will you be attending this year?

Amanda Hansel is a self proclaimed Disney nerd who has 2 boys. She is also a travel agent with Snapshot Getaways. You can find her on Facebook and on Twitter. She would love to hear from you or chat about Disney with you.