On December 25, 2025, millions of Americans celebrated Christmas morning with a time-honored television tradition—the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade. Broadcast nationally on ABC and streamed later on Disney+, Hulu, and YouTube, the annual spectacle once again transported viewers into a world of fantasy, music, and festive joy. From colorful floats to star-studded musical performances, the event blended holiday cheer with Disney magic in a way that has come to define Christmas Day for families across the country.
The broadcast began at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, kicking off with vibrant scenes from Disney parks around the globe. Footage from Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom in Florida, Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in California, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios provided breathtaking backdrops for the festivities. Even Aulani, Disney’s resort in Hawai‘i, was featured, connecting viewers to the broader world of Disney experiences and adding a warm, tropical flair to the holiday special.
Musical performances took center stage throughout the two-hour broadcast, offering a mix of beloved Christmas standards and pop-infused holiday tracks. Gwen Stefani opened the show with a stylish rendition of “White Christmas,” performed against the sparkling lights of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Coco Jones brought soulful energy to “This Christmas” from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, while Iam Tongi, the latest American Idol winner, offered a moving version of “The Christmas Song” from the shores of Hawai‘i.
Country trio Lady A delivered “Winter Wonderland” from EPCOT’s newly designed World Celebration Gardens, while Nicole Scherzinger raised the energy with “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” from Disneyland. Mariah the Scientist’s emotional “Please Come Home for Christmas” and Bebe Rexha’s upbeat closing performance of “Last Christmas” from Cinderella Castle rounded out the musical lineup. These performances were woven into the parade, creating a dynamic and entertaining mix of live music and visual spectacle that captured the festive spirit of the day.
Hosting duties for the parade were led by Alfonso Ribeiro, who returned with his signature charisma and charm, joined by actress Ginnifer Goodwin, known for her work in Disney productions. Together, they guided viewers through the day’s events with warmth and enthusiasm. Correspondent Maia Kealoha added energy and excitement, reporting from various locations and offering viewers a closer look at character appearances, performance setups, and surprise moments throughout the parks.
Beyond the music and hosting, the heart of the event remained the parade itself—featuring dazzling floats, choreographed dance numbers, and appearances by the most beloved Disney characters. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and many more were dressed in festive attire, waving to the cameras and interacting with fans. One standout addition this year was a special Disney Villains float, where characters like Maleficent and Ursula made rare holiday appearances, adding a playful twist to the otherwise cheerful proceedings.
Special segments throughout the show also gave audiences glimpses of upcoming Disney and Pixar projects, with brief trailers and behind-the-scenes teases sprinkled between performances. These sneak peeks reminded viewers that Disney’s holiday magic extends far beyond the parade, with films and attractions on the horizon that continue to shape its cultural influence.
For many viewers, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade is more than just a TV special—it’s part of a cherished holiday ritual. As children unwrap presents and families gather for meals, the familiar sights and sounds of the parade provide a backdrop of joy and wonder. The 2025 edition lived up to expectations, delivering a seamless blend of tradition and innovation that reflected both the timeless appeal of Disney and the evolving tastes of its diverse, multi-generational audience.
Whether for longtime fans or first-time viewers, this year’s parade offered a moment of escape, connection, and shared celebration. It reminded audiences that even amid the busyness of the season, there is always space for music, magic, and moments of joy. As the final float passed and the credits rolled, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade once again proved itself a central and unforgettable part of the modern American Christmas.
