Santa’s Holiday Grove Brings Festive Magic to Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World is adding new holiday magic to Disney's Animal Kingdom with the introduction of Santa’s Holiday Grove. This festive experience replaces the previous holiday party at the now-extinct DinoLand, offering a new location for visitors to meet Santa Claus.

The grove is set up in the former Rivers of Light seating area, across from the Theater in the Wild. This marks the first significant use of the space since the closure of Disney KiteTails in September 2022. The grove features a magical trail with intermittent snow flurries, festive music, and the opportunity to share holiday wishes with Santa. Specialty food and beverages will also be available during the experience, which runs from November 13 through January 6, 2027.

In addition to the new Santa’s Holiday Grove, Disney's Animal Kingdom will bring back popular holiday favorites, including the Merry Menagerie, Tree of Life Awakenings Holiday Edition, and meetings with Mickey and Minnie in their holiday attire. Other Walt Disney World holiday updates include new holiday music on three attractions: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, and Alien Swirling Saucers.

Visitors can also look forward to new food offerings in Monstropolis at Disney's Hollywood Studios, an increase in Annual Pass prices, and the arrival of Mickey-shaped souvenir plates at select quick-service locations.