There's a NEW Character Meet and Greet in Disney World

Happy merry holly jolly seasons greetings here!

Animal Kingdom Christmas tree

Yes friends, it’s THAT time of year, according to Olaf! We’ve been running all around Disney World (but not literally running because that’s against the rules) to check out all the holiday celebrations taking place this year. We’ve already been to two holiday parties and eaten dozens of snacks, but now it’s time for one of the most important Christmas traditions…meeting Santa Claus!

This year, you can meet Santa Claus in a variety of spots around Disney World, including all four parks and Disney Springs (if he can travel the whole world in one night, we shouldn’t be surprised that he can pop around Disney World just as fast!). And if you’re hoping to see him in Animal Kingdom this year, you should know that he’s in a NEW location.

Santa’s new setup

For the past few years, we’ve been able to see Santa Claus on a flotilla, riding along the Discovery River. But this year, he has a traditional meet and greet on the front porch of Restaurantosaurus.

The meet and greet area.

The meet and greet area is decked out in dino-inspired Christmas decor, and people who love the decorating style of Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures gift shop will be absolutely delighted with the kitschy and chaotic vibe. THIS is “maximalist” Christmas, right here.

It’s cheesy in the best way

Santa himself sits on a bench, and you can pop a squat down right next to him to say what you want for Christmas, then snap a photo. Of course, he’s as friendly and holly jolly as ever.

Make sure to stop and say hi!

If you want to stop by and see Santa, you should probably check his showtimes in the My Disney Experience app. If you search “Greet Santa Claus near Restaurantosaurus” a list of available times will pop up for that particular day. He’ll be in the park every day from now until December 24th — he’s got a job to do that evening, after all.

The meet and greet space

We’ll make sure to keep you updated with the latest news on the holiday season, so stay tuned to DFB!

Click Here to Learn More About the Holiday Season in Disney World!

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