Disney World provides millions with an update regarding a confident big man with a long white beard and a rosy nose. Here’s what guests should know.Credit: DisneyDisney World Gives Update on Santa Claus at Certain ParkThe sound of jingling bells, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and the wide-eyed excitement of children who still believe—it’s the kind of Disney moment that pulls even the most hardened adult straight into the holiday spirit. At EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, Santa Claus himself has become one of the must-see highlights. Families flock from across the globe, waiting in line for the chance to meet the man in red and capture that perfect Christmas card photo.But what happens when tradition suddenly changes course? This year, the Festival is shaking things up in a way that many fans didn’t see coming. Disney has confirmed that Santa Claus will leave behind his familiar spot inside the Odyssey Pavilion and move to a brand-new home. The shift may sound small, but it carries major implications for crowd flow, wait times, and your overall festival experience.So, what exactly is changing—and how can you make the most of this magical opportunity? Keep reading, because we’re about to unwrap the details, plus insider tips that could save you time and make your Santa meet-and-greet feel extra special.Credit: DisneyWhat’s New: Santa’s 2025 EPCOT Meet and GreetAccording to the official Walt Disney World website, Santa Claus will relocate to CommuniCore Hall for the 2025 International Festival of the Holidays. For the past several years, he has greeted families inside the Odyssey Pavilion, and prior to that, outside at The American Adventure.The updated meet-and-greet schedule runs from November 28 through December 24, with daily appearances at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. After Christmas Day, Santa will disappear from the lineup, though the festival itself continues into the new year.Why the move? Disney hasn’t given a specific reason, but fans speculate it’s tied to the debut of the long-awaited CommuniCore Hall, which is set to serve as a centerpiece for EPCOT festivals moving forward. This new space offers modern facilities, better crowd management, and a festive backdrop that promises to make Santa’s 2025 photos even more memorable.Credit: Chip and CompanyHow to Experience Santa at EPCOT Without the StressMeeting Santa at Disney is magical—but the reality is that the lines can grow long, especially on weekends or during peak December dates. Here are a few ways to make your visit smoother:Arrive early: Santa’s first set at 11 a.m. often has the shortest line. Aim to line up 15–20 minutes before.Use festival downtime: Mid-afternoon sets, like 2 p.m. or 3:30 p.m., are usually less crowded as families spread out for food booths and entertainment.Check the My Disney Experience app: Disney occasionally updates set times or confirms last-minute schedule adjustments through the app.Bring small distractions for kids: A few holiday snacks or stickers can make the wait more manageable for little ones.Credit: Disney DiningHidden Hacks and Insider SecretsFrequent EPCOT visitors swear by a few under-the-radar tricks:Take advantage of nearby seating: CommuniCore Hall offers shaded, comfortable seating areas where one parent can rest while the other holds the spot in line.Look for themed backdrops: Disney often changes Santa’s setup year to year. CommuniCore could feature exclusive holiday décor not seen elsewhere in the park.PhotoPass perks: If you’re a Memory Maker holder, Santa photos are included—so don’t waste phone storage.Plan snacks smartly: Grab a nearby seasonal treat like peppermint soft-serve or the holiday cookie stroll sampler before heading into line.Credit: DisneyWhy This Matters to FansFor Disney fans, Santa’s EPCOT presence isn’t just about a picture—it’s about tradition. Families return year after year, some recreating the same pose with kids who are now teenagers. The move to CommuniCore Hall represents more than just a location change: it symbolizes EPCOT’s ongoing transformation and Disney’s effort to modernize the guest experience.Social media already buzzes with anticipation. TikTok videos of past Santa encounters have millions of views, and this year’s new setting will no doubt spark another wave of viral content. For many, meeting Santa at EPCOT is a rite of passage, blending Disney magic with Christmas wonder in a way no other park can replicate.Credit: DisneyFinal Thoughts for Disney World GuestsSanta’s move to CommuniCore Hall may be a logistical update on paper, but in practice, it redefines one of EPCOT’s most cherished holiday experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning family, knowing when to go, how to beat the lines, and where to look for hidden perks can make the difference between a rushed photo op and a magical memory.So mark your calendars: November 28–December 24, 2025. Santa will be waiting. Will you be ready?The post Disney World Issues Unexpected Holiday Update on Santa Claus appeared first on Inside the Magic.