Disney World Has a New Adults-focused After-hours Holiday Event — and I Went to the First Night

What is Disney Jollywood Nights?

Imagine Hollywood Studios decked out in its holiday best, sparkling with lights, filled with festive treats, and brimming with exclusive entertainment designed for a more mature audience. That's Disney Jollywood Nights in a nutshell. This separately ticketed event runs on select nights from November 11th to December 20th, from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM. It offers a unique blend of classic Disney holiday cheer and sophisticated evening entertainment.

The Entertainment Lineup

One of the biggest draws of Jollywood Nights is the exclusive entertainment offerings. Here's a rundown of what I experienced:

• "Disney Holidays in Hollywood Hills": This show is a must-see! Set against the backdrop of the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater, Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy lead a star-studded cast through a nostalgic and heartwarming holiday revue. It features appearances by beloved characters like Belle, Tiana, and Olaf, singing classic holiday songs with a Disney twist.
• "Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!": This nighttime spectacular returns to the Chinese Theatre, projecting festive scenes onto the iconic building, accompanied by fireworks, music, and special effects. While I've seen it before, the holiday cheer is always a welcome treat.
• Holiday DJ Dance Parties: Scattered throughout the park, several DJ dance parties kept the energy high. The highlight was the "Hollywood Tower of Terror Courtyard" party, where a spooky vibe mingled with the festive spirit, creating a truly unique atmosphere.
• Meet-and-Greets: This is the best parts, Disney Jollywood Nights offers unique character meet and greet opportunities, including Powerline Max, Phineas and Ferb, and Santa Goofy. Prepare for long lines, though – these were incredibly popular.

Food and Drinks: A Festive Feast

No Disney event is complete without delicious food and drinks, and Jollywood Nights didn't disappoint. The event-exclusive offerings were creative and indulgent, with a focus on holiday flavors. Here's a sample of what I tried:

• Spiced Gingerbread Bundt Cake: This dessert was amazing.
• Hot Chocolate Churro: A perfect blend of warmth and sweetness.
• Christmas Tree Cookie Stack: A tiered cookie display.
• Festive Cocktails: Several themed cocktails were available throughout the park.

Navigating the Crowds and Wait Times

As with any Disney event, it's important to manage your expectations regarding crowds. Despite being a limited-capacity event, the first night of Jollywood Nights was understandably busy. Here’s a quick reference of average wait times I observed, although these may vary depending on the night you attend:

To make the most of your time, I recommend utilizing Genie+ (if you're willing to pay extra) to minimize wait times for select attractions. Prioritize the exclusive entertainment and character meet-and-greets that are unique to Jollywood Nights.

Is Disney Jollywood Nights Worth It?

So, is Disney Jollywood Nights worth the price of admission? For Disney adults seeking a festive and sophisticated evening, I'd say yes. The exclusive entertainment, holiday-themed treats, and unique atmosphere offer a refreshing alternative to the traditional Disney holiday experience. However, be prepared for crowds and plan your evening strategically to maximize your enjoyment. If you're looking for a magical way to celebrate the holiday season, Disney Jollywood Nights is definitely worth considering.

Tips for Planning Your Jollywood Nights Visit

Here are a few final tips to help you plan your Disney Jollywood Nights adventure:

• Purchase your tickets in advance: This event is likely to sell out, especially closer to the holidays.
• Arrive early: Even though the event starts at 8:30 PM, you can enter Hollywood Studios as early as 7:00 PM with your Jollywood Nights ticket. This gives you extra time to enjoy the park before the event officially begins.
• Prioritize: Make a list of the entertainment and activities that are most important to you and plan your evening accordingly.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking!
• Stay hydrated: It's easy to forget to drink water when you're having fun, but it's important to stay hydrated, especially in Florida's climate.

Overall, my experience at the first night of Disney Jollywood Nights was a delightful blend of holiday cheer and Disney magic. It's a great way for Disney adults to experience the parks in a new and exciting way during the holiday season.