Experience the Magic of the Disneyland Candlelight Processional

There’s nothing quite like the holidays at Disneyland, as magical snowflakes dance down Main Street and the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle shines with dazzling lights. Among the festive celebrations, one standout event is the exclusive Disneyland Candlelight Processional, an enchanting tradition that brings communities and Disney fans together.

What is the Disneyland Candlelight Processional?

Established by Walt Disney in 1958, the Candlelight Processional is a cherished annual event designed to honor local community leaders and supporters. This enchanting experience occurs over just two nights each December, with dates and celebrity narrators kept under wraps until the last moment. The 45-minute musical show relays the birth of Jesus, retelling “The First Christmas Story” through a mix of classical songs and heartwarming narration.

The magical production kicks off with a candlelit choir of 600 members making their way down Main Street to Town Square. Upon reaching the stage, the choir forms a breathtaking “living Christmas tree” positioned on a tree-shaped elevated riser. Once settled, the Disneyland Orchestra joins the choir, alongside featured vocalists and fanfare trumpeters, to create a musical feast that is truly unforgettable.

A Memorable Experience

This year, I had the joy of witnessing this wonderful tradition firsthand. The experience is further elevated by a celebrity narrator who reads various segments of the Biblical story, interspersed with traditional hymns such as “We Three Kings” and selections from Handel’s "Messiah." One of the most touching moments was an audience-involved rendition of “Silent Night” in both Spanish and English, igniting the Christmas spirit and sense of community.

Past narrators have included iconic figures like James Earl Jones, Dick Van Dyke, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, making each year’s event unique. This year, I was thrilled to hear actor Benjamin Bratt, known for his roles in Coco and Andor, beautifully narrating the tale.

The Choir and Its Members

Being part of the choir is a distinction many aspire to. The choir comprises both community members and Disney cast members, including Disneyland employees and Walt Disney Imagineers. The atmosphere is a blend of intimacy and extravagance, allowing participants and spectators to feel the resonance of the season like never before. The entire production is a testament to Disney’s commitment to creating moments that resonate with audiences deeply.

How to Attend the Candlelight Processional

While the Candlelight Processional offers an awe-inspiring experience, attendance is highly exclusive. Seating is limited to a few hundred guests, primarily consisting of personal invitations extended to guests of Disney and members of Club 33, Disneyland’s elite members-only club. However, for those without invitations, there remains hope. Guests can see the event from just outside the reserved seating area. It’s common for eager fans to line up as early as 8 a.m. to secure standing spots, ensuring they don’t miss this extraordinary celebration.

Disneyland’s Holiday Traditions

The Candlelight Processional is just one of many enchanting holiday traditions that embody the spirit of Disneyland. The resort-wide celebration features an array of limited-time festive foods, stunning décor, and mesmerizing seasonal fireworks running until early January. Noteworthy events include the Disney Festival of Holidays, a delightful multicultural food festival alongside exclusive seasonal attraction overlays that make rides like It’s a Small World feel even more whimsical.

Experience the Magic for Yourself

Ready to dive into the magic of the Disneyland Candlelight Processional? Make your plans now and experience the holiday spirit like never before. Whether you’re one of the lucky few with an invitation or a determined guest lining up early for a standing spot, this enchanting celebration of community, music, and festivity is an experience no Disney fan should miss. For more information on all things Disneyland during the holidays, visit Disneyland Holiday Events and start planning your magical experience today!