Candlelight Processional
FAQ

Candlelight Dinner Packages went on Sale July 26, 2011

updated 2011 Tentative Narrator Schedule (scroll down)

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What is the Candlelight Processional?

A Disney tradition now in its 41st year (2011), the Candlelight Processional is a moving presentation of the Christmas story in readings by a celebrity narrator and music by a Mass choir and 50-piece orchestra.

Where and when does it take place?

This event takes place in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase in Epcot. It is an outdoor (uncovered, not climate controlled) setting and is not cancelled due to inclement weather. It is recommended you dress accordingly.

It begins November 25, 2011, and runs every evening until December 30. Shows are approximately 40 minutes. Each evening there are three shows -- 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m. (except December 4, there is no 5 p.m. show)

Who are the narrators?

The schedule of those who will appear as narrators for performances of Epcot's 2011 Candlelight Processional, the annual retelling of the story of Christmas that features a mass choir and a full orchestra (subject to change):

  • November 25-27: Mira Sorvino ("Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion")
  • November 28-December 1: Michael W. Smith (Christian singer)
  • December 2-3: Geena Davis ("Thelma & Louise")
  • December 4-6: Edward James Olmos (6:45 p.m. & 8:15 p.m. shows only on December 4)
  • December 7-9: Isabella Rossellini ("Alias")
  • December 10-12: Neil Patrick Harris ("How I Met Your Mother")
  • December 13-15: Lorraine Bracco ("The Sopranos," "Goodfellas")
  • December 16-18: Chita Rivera (singer/dancer)
  • December 19-21: Trace Adkins (country singer)
  • December 22-24: Susan Lucci ("All My Children")
  • December 25-27: Blair Underwood ("The Event")
  • December 28-30: Marlee Matlin ("Celebrity Apprentice") (Jack Jason)

Is there a charge to see the Candlelight Processional?

No, it is included in your admission to Epcot. There is, however, a dinner package available for purchase that includes a ticket to Reserved Seating for the Candlelight Processional.

Seating without the dinner package is on a first come, first serve basis for each show. Folks line up 45 minutes (longer as you are closer to Christmas) before show time. 15 minutes prior to the show, seating is then opened up to those on line. Also, keep in mind if you wait in line for the 2nd or 3rd show of the night, that you will be hearing the show before yours as it is performed.

You can always stroll by the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase to listen to the music and wonders of Christmas.

If you wish to purchase the dinner package (explained below) with reserved seating, there is a charge.

What does the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package include?

Candlelight Dinner Package includes lunch or dinner at a select Epcot restaurant, guaranteed general seating at the America Gardens Theatre during the Candlelight Processional and pre-arranged fireworks viewing. The meal includes:

• Appetizer
• Entree
• Dessert
• Non-alcoholic beverage
(OR one full buffet where applicable)

For more information or to make reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).


updatedLunch and dinner packages, which include a meal, reserved seating at the show and pre-arranged fireworks viewing, will go on sale July 26, 2011. (Packages not available on Sunday, December 4, at 5 p.m. -- Community Relations Showing.)


Participating restaurants are listed below. Package Prices do not include tax and gratuity. Dinner packages do not include park admission.

Prices listed are Adult / Child.

Biergarten Restaurant: Lunch $ 32.99 / $ 17.99; Dinner $ 50.99 / $ 25.99

Chefs de France: Lunch $ 51.99 / $ 13.99; Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Coral Reef: Lunch $ 51.99 / $ 13.99; Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Garden Grill Restaurant: Dinner $ 52.99 / $ 26.99

La Hacienda de San Angel: Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Le Cellier Steakhouse: Lunch $ 53.99 / $ 14.99

Nine Dragons Restaurant: Lunch $ 38.99 / $ 12.99; Dinner $ 49.99 / $ 15.99

Restaurant Marrakesh: Lunch $ 38.99 / $ 12.99; Dinner $ 49.99 / $ 15.99

Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room: Lunch $ 38.99 / $ 12.99; Dinner $ 49.99 / $ 15.99

San Angel Inn: Lunch $ 38.99 / $ 12.99; Dinner $ 49.99 / $ 15.99

Teppan Edo: Lunch $ 51.99 / $ 13.99; Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Tokyo Dining: Lunch $ 51.99 / $ 13.99; Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Tutto Italia: Lunch $ 51.99 / $ 13.99; Dinner $ 64.99 / $ 17.99

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria: Lunch $ 38.99 / $ 12.99; Dinner $ 49.99 / $ 15.99

Disney Dining Plan is accepted as follows:
Magic Your Way Plus Dine - 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Plus Deluxe Dine - 2 TSR entitlements
Magic Your Way Quick Service Dine – Not eligible
Magic Your Way Premium Package
Magic Your Way Platinum Package

Packages are paid for at the individual restaurants. Guests are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their reservation to check–in. Guests will receive Candlelight Seating badges at the restaurant for guaranteed seating at the America Gardens Theatre for the booked show time and for viewing of IllumiNations: Reflection of Earth. Guests can make reservations 180 days in advance for the specific date requested. Disney Resort Guests are permitted to book 180 days in advance of their Resort arrival date for the length of their stay up to an additional 10 days.

How do I book the Candlelight Processional Dinner Package?

Reservations for the Candlelight Processional dinner packages can be made by calling (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463).

Do I still need an Advance Dining Reservation?

YES! When you call to order your dinner package tickets, you will be asked to select a restaurant and time.

Be sure to allow sufficient time to dine and get to the America Gardens Theatre.

Do I have a reserved seat at the show?

Not exactly. There is a reserved section for those with the dinner package. The reserved section is front and center, behind any VIP seating. Within the reserved section, seating is on a first come, first serve basis, so if you want your choice of seats, you should arrive 30-45 minutes early. 15 minutes prior to the show beginning, available seating is opened up to folks without dinner package tickets.

Where do I enter the theater?

If you stand in World Showcase directly in front of the America Gardens Theatre (facing the theatre), the line to the left side is for persons WITH Candlelight Dinner Tickets. The line to the right side is for first-come available seating. Be sure to check upon arrival so you are in the correct line!

Is it worth doing?

If you enjoy the Christmas holidays, I highly recommend the show. I have seen the show several times over the last several years.  I have purchased the dinner package in the past and felt was worth the price. 

The first time I saw the show, I stood in line for the first show of the evening.  It was still early in the season and a week night, so the crowds were not too bad. I did wait about 30-40 minutes in line.

If you are on a budget, you don't need to purchase the tickets. 

If you are already planning to dine at one of the restaurants in the package, take a look at the Menus from around the World and see if the price of a ticket works out better for you.

For Guest Comments or to post your own comments, visit our Rate and Review Section HERE.