Changes for the Holidays at Disney Springs

For the past few years, the holidays at Disney Springs has meant four words; the Christmas Tree Trail. It was an area in West Side that was filled with themed Christmas trees. You’d find Disney classics, Pixar, Star Wars, and even trees based on rides. Since the Christmas Tree Trail was in a small area that would get crowded, Disney decided that it was not a good idea to have it this year. Instead, we’ve been given an alternative, and for me, it works well.

Instead of the Christmas Tree Trail, this year it’s the Christmas Tree Stroll. (The full name is Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, which is a mouthful.) There are now themed trees throughout Disney Springs. Many of your favorites from the Christmas Tree Trail are part of the new stroll. Since they’re not in a small area, it’s easier to social distance around the trees. They are just as festive as ever.

There is a fun addition this year that will help you to find all of the trees. Head to Guest Relations in Town Center, and pick up a Holiday Scavenger Hunt map. You can then search for the trees, and when you find the sticker that matches it place it on the map. (The stickers are included with the map.) When you’re done, head back to Guest Relations or another redemption center.

There’s one at House of Blues, I’m not sure if there are any others. You’ll then receive a Christmas Tree Stroll 2020 button. If you don’t complete the stroll, don’t worry. They’ll still give you the button. The Christmas Tree Stroll is great for two reasons. First, you’ll know where to find all the trees. Second, it’s free! I really enjoyed it, and I’m sure you will as well.

The themed trees aren’t the only decorations at Disney Springs. There are special touches everywhere! The sounds of holiday classics fill the air, completing the mood.

Extra entertainment is also on hand. You might find musicians, stilt walkers, a DJ or two, and the like. There is also supposed to be snoap in both West Side and Town Center, but when I’ve been there I haven’t been able to catch it.

Santa has been busy at Walt Disney World this year, and he’s supposed to make an appearance at Disney Springs. He hasn’t shown up yet, I’ve been told by several people in the know that he’ll be there later this month. The exact date hasn’t been announced. (They said that Mrs. Claus, who will be with him, has been trying to find the right outfit.) Once it happens it will be called Santa’s Winter Watercade. Santa and his main squeeze will be on decorated pontoon boats. When I hear that they’ve arrived, I’ll let you know.

Of course, if you’re looking for that perfect gift, Disney Springs has plenty of options. That goes without saying. World of Disney has Disney holiday merchandise, and you’ll find pretty much anything that you might want elsewhere.

If you’re going to Disney Springs, there is one thing that you need to keep in mind. It tends to get busy on the weekends, and sometimes on weeknights. It reaches capacity fairly often. You might want to go early in the day, or on a weeknight. If it is at capacity, you will be turned away, even if you have a dining reservation.

I think that Disney Springs is a great holiday destination this year. I had a wonderful time with the Christmas Tree Stroll, and there is a seasonal surprise around each corner. I plan to stop by often during the next few weeks.