Disney Parks and ABC are set to dazzle audiences this holiday season with two star-studded specials, promising a festive blend of music, magic, and exclusive sneak peeks. These events, part of a long-standing holiday tradition, are poised to captivate viewers across the nation.
“The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” – A Festive Spectacle
Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 26, as ABC airs “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. EST. Hosted by the charismatic siblings Derek and Julianne Hough, this special will showcase a medley of musical performances against the backdrop of Disney’s enchanting locations. The lineup includes:
- Derek Hough and Julianne Hough with a medley including “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” “What Christmas Means to Me,” and “Dance to the Music.”
- DJ Khaled in a special appearance.
- Michael Bolton & Mickey Guyton performing “Christmas Isn’t Christmas.”
- Andra Day and Adam Blackstone with “Someday at Christmas” and an original song “Legacy Christmastime.”
- Mickey Guyton singing “Jingle Bell Rock.”
- Chris Janson with “Holiday Road.”
- Tori Kelly delivering renditions of “This Christmas” and “Winter Wonderland.”
- Chrissy Metz singing “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.”
- The Smashing Pumpkins performing “Silver Bells.”
- Robin Thicke presenting “Let it Snow” and “Perfect Holiday.”
- Iam Tongi with “White Christmas.”
- Plus, a special look back at an iconic past performance.
Viewers can expect a spectacular evening filled with holiday cheer, top-notch performances, and a special preview of Disney’s newest major motion picture, “Wish.”
“Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” – A Christmas Tradition
Continuing the festive spirit, the “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” will air on ABC on Christmas Day, December 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EST (9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST). Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the parade will be hosted again by Derek and Julianne Hough, alongside Mickey Guyton and Jesse Palmer. The performers include:
- Derek Hough and Julianne Hough showcasing a medley of “Good Morning” and “Deck the Halls.”
- Chrissy Metz with “Silver Bells.”
- The Smashing Pumpkins introducing a new, original holiday song “Evergreen.”
- Iam Tongi singing “Mele Kalikimaka.”
- The Broadway and North American Tour Cast of Disney’s “Aladdin” performing “Friend Like Me.”
- Meg Donnelly with “Christmas (Baby, Please Come Home).”
This iconic parade, filmed at Walt Disney World Resort, will feature Disney characters in their holiday best and offer a series of musical performances by these talented artists.
Streaming Options and Social Engagement
Missed the live airing? Both specials will be available for streaming the day after their premieres on Hulu and Disney+, ensuring no one misses out on the holiday cheer. Disney encourages fans to engage with these events through social media, by following @ABCNetwork and @DisneyParks and using the hashtags #DisneyHolidayCelebration and #DisneyChristmasCelebration.
In summary, these holiday specials from Disney Parks and ABC are shaping up to be a must-watch this season, blending musical extravaganza with magical Disney experiences, appealing to viewers of all ages and continuing a beloved holiday tradition.
Gray is a lifelong Disney fan! From Disney+ to the parks, he loves it all. His favorite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast, and his favorite attraction is The Haunted Mansion.