Holidays Around the World at Epcot

While many families gravitate towards the fantastic environment of the Magic Kingdom for their Christmas time fantasy, I have always loved the cultural diversity of Holidays Around the World at Epcot. A highly anticipated part of the season this tradition brings together storytellers from around the globe to share seasonal tales of Winter Holidays in Epcot's World Showcase. Gather around, to listen and learn the way winter holidays are celebrated across the globe.

Father Christmas in the United Kingdom

• Canada - Christmas traditions with a French influences are traditional in Canada's Quebec. Children especially enjoy stories of the mischievous Nalyuks from the Inuit of Northern Canada. The storyteller in this pavilion is Lumberjack Nowell.
• United Kingdom - Father Christmas pins yarns of Christmas past and the origins of Christmas cards.
• France - In this pavilion, Pere Noel explains the holiday dreams of young madamoiselle Babbette.
• Morocco - The drummer, Taarji share's the story of Ashurar, and well- behaved children receive presents.
• Japan - The story of the Daruma doll is told by an ancient Japanese vendor to bring good luck to all.



Santa & Mrs. Claus at the American Adventure

• American Adventure - Learn the tales of both Hanukkah and Kwanza celebration in the American pavilion, as well as enjoying a visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus!
• Italy - The good Christmas witch La Befana, leaves candy and presents for children after she comes down the chimney on her broomstick! Hear her tell tales of those magical adventures.
• Germany - The story of the first Christmas tree is told by Helga. She also describes her first Nutcracker.
• China - There are twists and turns in the tall tale told by the agile Monkey King. Fun to watch!
• Norway - Farm girl, Sigrid, talks about the mischievous Julenissen (Christmas Gnome) Norway, that plays some tricks to keep kids guessing.
• Mexico - During the Posada, a Mexican celebration, three young men represent the Three Kings while they share the customs that begin nine days before Christmas and continue through the start of February.

Helga in Germany
No matter which country you drop by, you're sure to learn something new and wonderful about the many ways people around the world celebrate during the winter months. Performances happen multiple times each day, and are at set times, so be sure to check your entertainment schedule and performance boards at each pavilion.

Who's your Santa? Do you have a favorite Epcot holiday storyteller to listen to? Leave a comment and below let us know!