2025 Candlelight Processional at EPCOT: Narrators, Dining Packages, and Tips for Families

The holiday season is one of the most magical times to visit Walt Disney World. Between sparkling decorations, festive treats, and special events across the parks and resorts, there is something truly heartwarming about celebrating here as a family.
​
One of the most beloved traditions is the Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, part of the park’s Festival of the Holidays. This beautiful performance combines celebrity narrators, a full orchestra, and a mass choir to tell the story of Christmas in a way that feels both powerful and intimate.
If your family is traveling to Disney World this holiday season, here’s what you need to know to enjoy this unforgettable experience.

2025 Celebrity Narrator Lineup
This year’s lineup includes some brand-new faces alongside returning favorites. Each narrator brings their own personality and presence to the show, making every performance unique.

• Nov. 28–29 – Constance Wu (NEW)
• Nov. 30–Dec. 2 – Jordan Fisher
• Dec. 3–4 – Jennifer Garner (NEW)
• Dec. 5–6 – Ashley Eckstein
• Dec. 7–8 – Ralph Macchio
• Dec. 9–10 – Leslie Uggams (NEW)
• Dec. 11–13 – Marlee Matlin
• Dec. 14–15 – Henry Winkler (NEW)
• Dec. 16–17 – Lauren Daigle (NEW)
• Dec. 18–19 – Gary Sinise
• Dec. 20–22 – Brendan Fraser
• Dec. 23–24 – Luis Fonsi
• Dec. 25–26 – Joel Smallbone (NEW)
• Dec. 27–28 – Brie Larson (NEW)
• Dec. 29–30 – Sheryl Lee Ralph (NEW)

Performances take place at the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure Pavilion, offered three times nightly at 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:15 PM.

Why It’s So Popular
The Candlelight Processional lasts about 40 minutes and is free to attend with your park admission. But because the show is so well loved, and the theater has limited seating, getting in isn’t always simple.
A large portion of the seats are reserved for guests who book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. While standby seating is available, families who want to guarantee their spot usually prefer to book the package rather than risk long lines or disappointment.

2025 Dining Packages
Dining packages for this year open on October 14, 2025, and they go quickly. With the package, you’ll enjoy a meal at one of EPCOT’s participating restaurants plus guaranteed seating for a specific performance.
Here are some highlights from the 2025 lineup:

• Biergarten Restaurant (Germany Pavilion) – $70 adult / $38 child
• Garden Grill Restaurant (The Land Pavilion) – $71 breakfast, $84 lunch or dinner
• Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion) – $104 adult / $42 child
• Teppan Edo (Japan Pavilion) – $110 adult / $60 child
• Via Napoli Ristorante (Italy Pavilion) – $65 adult / $28 child

There are 15 total restaurants to choose from, ranging from casual to fine dining. For families looking for flexibility, the Regal Eagle Smokehouse also offers same-day dining packages starting at $41 per adult, though these are extremely limited.

Want all the details in one place? I’ve created a 2025 Candlelight Processional Cheat Sheet with:

• The full narrator lineup and dates
• Every dining package restaurant with child and adult pricing
• Same-day package info
• Quick tips for standby seating

👉 Click here to download the cheat sheet

Tips for Families

• Book early: Packages open October 14, and reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
• Arrive ahead: Even with a dining package, seats are first-come, first-served within the reserved section. Arriving about 45 minutes before showtime helps you get the best view.
• Standby strategy: If you don’t have a package, check how long the line is for the first show to gauge when you’ll need to line up for later ones.
• Alternative option: Even if you can’t get a seat, the music carries beautifully outside the theater. Grab a treat from the nearby festival booths and enjoy the sounds of the season together.

Is a Dining Package Worth It?
For many families, yes. Think of it as an investment in peace of mind. Instead of spending hours in line and potentially missing other holiday fun, you can relax knowing your spot is secure. It’s one of the best ways to make the most of your precious vacation time.