Christmas celebration kicks off in Disney World this week

The Christmas holiday kicks off this week at Disney World with parades, light shows and parties.

© Steven Liebman

At the Animal Kingdom:  “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle Parade”  kicks off Nov. 7  and lasts until Jan. 2, 2014.

At the Magic Kingdom: The park is turned, starting Nov.  7 to Jan. 2m 2014,  into a winter wonderland with wreaths, garland Cinderella Castle lighting up with 200,000 white lights.  Be aware that the large Christmas tree at the town square does not traditionally go up until after the Disney Christmas television special is taped. It will be taped this year Dec. 6 and 7. 

In addition, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, which will take place over 19 nights (with a special admission ticket) kicks off Nov. 8.

At Hollywood Studios: The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights, the large seasonal display featuring millions of lights and effects along the Streets of America, starts Nov. 8 and lasts until Jan. 5, 2014.

Later in the month, more events will kick off.

At Epcot: The Candlelight Processional, the telling of The Christmas Story by a celebrity narrator with a 50-piece orchestra and a choir. From Nov. 29 to Dec. 30 this takes place twice nightly. The celebrity list can be found here.

At Downtown Disney: The Festival of the Seasons kicks off at Downtown Disney Nov. 19 to Dec. 29 and features entertainment from holiday carolers, live entertainment and photos with Santa and Santa Goofy.