Dates, Times & Location Celebrity Narrators Seating Dining Package Who is Involved Tips
The Candlelight Processional is a breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story with a 50-piece orchestra, choir, and celebrity narrators. The narrator reads the story, interspersed with carols, while Disney’s Voices of Liberty, the Cast Member choir, and visiting choirs each bring unique energy to the performance. The theater is handicap accessible, and a sign language narrator is available. Moreover, anyone seeking a meaningful Christmas musical event should not miss this unforgettable experience. While the show has a Christian slant, many find it enjoyable regardless of their holiday celebrations.
The following is information for 2024 to be used as a guide. Updated information for 2025 will be shared when released.
Dates, Time, and Location Candlelight Processional
The Candlelight Processional is held in EPCOT at the American Gardens Theater. The Theater is located in the American pavilion. This is an open-air theater, and although it has a roof, you may still get wet. Remember to dress for being outside; otherwise, you may feel uncomfortable in the elements. Although you are in Florida, it still may be quite cool on a December evening.
They hold the Candlelight Processional every night during the Christmas season. While the first performance is usually held within a few days of Thanksgiving, it then runs daily through December 30. The show runs three times nightly at 5:00, 6:45, and 8:15 p.m., lasting about 45 minutes.
Celebrity Narrators
The schedule of celebrity performers varies from year to year, although many have made repeat performances over the years. Program offerings, celebrity narrators, and other elements may change without notice and often do. As a result, it’s important to stay updated on any changes.
2025 Narrators haven’t been announced yet.
2024 List of Narrators:
- 11/29 – 11/30 Josh Gad
- 12/1 – 12/2 Nico Santos (NEW)
- 12/3-12/5 Chrissy Metz
- 12/6 – 12/7 Whoopi Goldberg
- 12/8 – 12/10 Tituss Burgess (NEW)
- 12/11 – 12/12 Brendan Fraser
- 12/13 – 12/14 Ralph Macchio (NEW)
- 12/15 – 12/16 Gary Sinise
- 12/17 – 12/18 Neil Patrick Harris
- 12/19 – 12/21 Pat Sajak
- 12/22 – 12/23 Gloria Estefan
- 12/24 – 12/26 Edward James Olmos
- 12/27 – 12/28 Sterling K Brown
- 12/29 – 12/30 Jodi Benson
* Show times are nightly at 5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. Celebrity narrators, dates and times are subject to change without notice.
Attending the Candlelight Processional
The performance is included in regular EPCOT park admission at no additional cost. Additionally, all EPCOT guests are welcome to view this moving presentation. The introduction of the Candlelight Processional Dining Packages, however, has meant far less viewing space for the general public in recent years. That means that guests will need to line up early to get a seat to this popular show, sometimes up to several hours for later shows. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, following those who have purchased a Dining Package. (see below) have been seated.
Standing in line does not guarantee seating, as all seating opens 15 minutes before the show. The 5:00 p.m. weekday show is typically the least crowded. Thanksgiving weekend and Christmas week shows are most popular, so book early. Consequently, shows with celebrity narrators attract larger crowds. If lines are long, ask a Cast Member about your chances of getting in.
One thing to note if you don’t want to wait in a long line: Although the view is obstructed, you can easily hear the music from outside the theater, though this may not be the best option. However, some latecomers just hang out in the area of the America Pavilion and listen to the beautiful music and narration.
Candlelight Processional Music
Music can vary from year to year. A sample song list can be found below. In addition, CDs with processional music are available for purchase at retail carts near America Gardens Theatre.
Orchestral Medley
“Candlelight Overture” (Instrumental Only)
Processional Music
The following songs are sung as the choirs enter the America Gardens Theater. The musical selections are listed alphabetically and do not necessarily represent the order of appearance:
“Candlelight Carillon” (Percussion Only)
“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”
“O Little Town of Bethlehem”
Processional Choral Selections
The following songs are sung during the Processional program.
“Angels From the Realms of Glory”
“Il Est Ne” (English & French)
“The Hallelujah Chorus”
“Away in a Manger”
“Joy to the World”
“O Come All Ye Faithful”
“O! Holy Night”
“Rejoice With Exceeding Great Joy”
“Shout for Joy”
“Silent Night” (English & German)
“What Child Is This?” (English & Spanish)
It is customary to stand while the “Hallelujah” is being sung. Apparently, when Handel’s Messiah was first performed, the King was in attendance and as the chorus was at the end of the performance, he decided to stand up and stretch his legs. Of course, at that time, no one was to remain seated while a king was standing so the entire audience stood as well, and that tradition has continued to this day.
The Candlelight Processional Dining Package
2025 Candlelight Processional Dining Package information is not yet available.
The Candlelight Processional Dining Package combines an EPCOT dining experience with reserved VIP seating for the Candlelight Processional. Moreover, the price for the package tiers depends on the restaurant selected. Additionally, those on the Disney Dining Plan may exchange “table” credits for the Candlelight Processional Dining Package.
In fact, packages are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with set times for specific performances. Furthermore, each package offers a convenient and structured dining experience. Additionally, each package provides convenient scheduling options. However, breakfast is typically cheaper. You must dine before the performance and pay at the restaurant. During your meal, you’ll receive a badge for reserved seating. The package offers good value but does not include EPCOT park admission.
With a Candlelight Processional Dining Package, you’ll wait in line but be seated before the general public. Unlike the stand-by line, you can queue closer to showtime and secure a seat. Seats are based on your position in line, so arrive 30-45 minutes early if seat choice matters. However, 15 minutes before the performance, reserved seating opens to stand-by guests, so arriving late doesn’t guarantee a seat.
Price Range for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages
(Prices will vary by restaurant):
- Breakfast: Beginning at $71 per adult; $43 per child
- Lunch/Dinner: Beginning at $53 per adult; $24 per child
EPCOT Restaurants Offering Candlelight Processional Dining Packages:
| Restaurant | Adult (ages 10 and up) |
Child (ages 3 to 9) |
| Biergarten Restaurant Germany Pavilion |
$71.00 | $38.00 |
| Chefs de France France Pavilion |
$66.00 | $37.00 |
| Coral Reef Restaurant The Living Seas |
$78.00 | $32.00 |
| Garden Grill Restaurant The Land Pavilion |
$71.00 – Breakfast
$84.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
$43.00 – Breakfast
$52.00 – Lunch/Dinner |
| La Crêperie de Paris France Pavilion |
$53.00 | $27.00 |
| La Hacienda de San Angel Mexico Pavilion |
$86.00 | $37.00 |
| Le Cellier Steakhouse Canada Pavilion |
$104.00 | $42.00 |
| Nine Dragons Restaurant China Pavilion |
$65.00 | $28.00 |
| Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (same-day dining packages only) American Adventure Pavilion |
$41.00 | $24.00 |
| Rose & Crown Dining Room United Kingdom Pavilion |
$66.00 | $29.00 |
| Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya Japan Pavilion |
$105.00 | $60.00 |
| Spice Road Table Morocco Pavilion |
$61.00 | $24.00 |
| Teppan Edo Japan Pavilion |
$105.00 | $60.00 |
| Tutto Italia Ristorante Italy Pavilion |
$75.00 | $28.00 |
| Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria Italy Pavilion |
$63.00 | $27.00 |
Dining Package Inclusions
Included with Each Candlelight Processional Dining Package Meal: All meals include a two-course meal (entree and dessert) and a non-alcoholic beverage, or one full buffet where applicable. However, at Spice Road Table, guests receive 2 small plates, a non-alcoholic beverage, a tagine, and a dessert platter to share. Gratuity and alcoholic beverages do not come with the package, and some menu items may not be available, though the restaurant will offer other options.
In fact, the Candlelight Processional Dining Package may be reserved 60 days in advance by calling (407) WDW-DINE or through Disney’s Online dining reservation system, or ask your Magic For Less Travel specialist to make your arrangements for you. Also, mention your interest in the Candlelight Processional Dining Package at booking. Additionally, be sure to confirm the availability of your preferred dining time. However, guests cannot convert previous Advance Dining Reservations for a qualifying EPCOT restaurant to a Candlelight Processional Dining Package.
Have your restaurant name and dining time ready when booking. Limited packages are available, so call early and consider alternatives. The system requires a credit card guarantee, with full payment due at the restaurant. Additionally, specific cancellation policies apply, and your server will provide a badge for VIP theater entry.
Same-Day Dining Packages: Planning a last-minute visit? You may be able to purchase a same-day dining package, which allows you to:
- Dine at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue without reservations that day.
- Enjoy guaranteed seats to a Candlelight Processional performance later that day
To check availability for same-day dining packages, visit Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue during the Festival. However, packages are subject to availability and may not be available on peak dates.
Facts About the Candlelight Processional
The Candlelight Processional is an amazing production; moreover, it offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Well before the event even begins, hundreds of people give countless hours to make each performance memorable.
In preparation for Candlelight Processional shows, …
· Disney held 72 official Cast Choir rehearsals.
· Over 700 participating Cast Members to learn
· 11 song selections, plus 1 Processional and 1 Recessional, totaling to
· 897 measures of music
· 16 Guest Talent Coordinators trained to prepare for working with
· 268 Guest Choir Groups containing a total of
· 18,560 performers from across the country
· 12 Celebrity Narrators were scheduled to perform in
· 102 performances, over the course of 34 days (November 27 through December 30)
On any given night of a Candlelight Processional performance, there are…
· 300 Guest Choir Members
· 48 Cast Choir Members
· 45 Orchestra Members
· 8 Voices of Liberty
· 6 Fanfare Trumpets
· 1 Conductor
· 1 Celebrity Narrator and
· 1 Sign Language Interpreter onstage, all supported by
· 27 Entertainment/Guest Choir Support Personnel
· 10 Event Operations Support Personnel
· 5 Managers
· 4 Custodial Support Personnel
· 4 Caterers
· 3 Emergency Aid Personnel
· 1 Security Personnel