The holiday season has already arrived at Walt Disney World, and you can feel the cheer from miles away. Main Street, U.S.A. sparkles with twinkling lights, the scent of fresh gingerbread fills the air, and Christmas music drifts from every corner of the parks.The moment you step through those gates, you’re surrounded by pure holiday magic—and it’s unlike anything else on Earth. But before you head there, why not set the mood? Whether you’re counting down the days or packing your Mickey ears, these 10 magical movies will get you in the perfect festive frame of mind before your Disney World Christmas vacation.Credit: DisneyDisney World at Christmas TimeIf you’ve never experienced Disney World during the holidays, you’re in for something special. Every park transforms into a winter wonderland—even without the snow. The Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle glows with shimmering projections, Hollywood Studios sparkles with retro tinsel charm, and EPCOT celebrates traditions from around the world during the Festival of the Holidays.Guests can sip hot cocoa while watching Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party parade roll down Main Street, U.S.A., complete with dancing reindeer and Santa himself. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the all-new Jollywood Nights celebration takes on a glitzy, vintage Hollywood flair with music, exclusive treats, and festive shows. It’s an unforgettable time to visit—and watching the right movies ahead of your trip can make that first step into the park feel even more magical.Credit: Disney1. FrozenStart your watchlist with the ultimate winter fantasy. Frozen captures the essence of Disney’s storytelling magic with its heartwarming tale of sisterhood, courage, and snow-covered adventure. Watching Anna and Elsa’s journey through Arendelle feels like stepping into your own winter wonderland—just the mood-setter you need before strolling down Main Street under the twinkling Christmas lights. Plus, hearing “Let It Go” again might just make you ready for EPCOT’s Frozen Ever After ride.Credit: Disney2. Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh YearThis one’s perfect for anyone craving something cozy before the big trip. A Very Merry Pooh Year is all about reflection, friendship, and the joy of the season—exactly the kind of warmth you’ll feel walking through Disney’s beautifully decorated resorts. Watching Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood celebrate the holidays reminds you that sometimes, the smallest moments—like sharing a cup of cocoa—can be the most magical.3. The Nightmare Before ChristmasIs it a Halloween movie? A Christmas movie? The answer is both—and that’s what makes it so perfect. The Nightmare Before Christmas bridges the two most magical seasons, much like Disney World, which transitions from pumpkins to poinsettias in late fall. Jack Skellington’s quest to bring Christmas to Halloween Town mirrors the excitement of guests discovering Disney’s transformation for the holidays. Plus, fans can meet Jack and Sally during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Credit: Disney4. The Muppet Christmas CarolYou can never go wrong with the Muppets at Christmas. The Muppet Christmas Carol delivers humor, heart, and a surprisingly emotional retelling of the Dickens classic. Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Michael Caine as Scrooge make for an unforgettable pairing. Watching this before your Disney trip sets the perfect tone for the heartwarming storytelling Disney is known for—plus, if you’re heading to EPCOT, you might even feel extra appreciation for the Muppet antics at Regal Eagle Smokehouse.5. Duck the Halls: A Mickey Christmas SpecialShort, funny, and packed with personality, Duck the Halls follows Donald Duck as he experiences Christmas instead of migrating south for the winter. The result? Chaos, laughs, and a surprising amount of sweetness. It’s the ideal short special to throw on while packing your suitcase or decorating the tree. The humor and holiday mishaps feel perfectly in line with the fun of Disney World’s Christmas entertainment.Credit: Disney6. Mickey’s Once Upon a ChristmasThis collection of three heartwarming stories—starring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and more—captures what the holiday season is all about. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas is a perfect reminder of family, kindness, and togetherness. If you’re taking kids to Disney World, this one’s a must-watch. The classic animation and nostalgic tone make it feel timeless, and it’s a great way to get everyone excited about seeing Mickey in person during the parks’ holiday celebrations.7. Mickey’s Twice Upon a ChristmasIf you loved the first one, Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas delivers another round of festive fun. This sequel updates the animation style and tells new stories centered on the same beloved characters. It’s bright, funny, and full of modern Disney charm. Watching both “Once” and “Twice” gives you the perfect double feature to set the mood for your upcoming trip—and might make that first sight of Mickey’s Christmas parade even more special.Credit: Disney8. The Santa ClauseFew movies capture the feeling of Disney-style magic better than The Santa Clause. Tim Allen’s transformation from skeptical dad to the real Santa brings equal parts comedy and heart. Watching the North Pole come to life in this film feels like a behind-the-scenes peek at Disney World’s holiday workshops. It’s a great reminder of how belief and imagination make the season sparkle—just like the parks themselves.9. Home AloneIt’s not a Disney movie, but it’s impossible to leave off the list. Home Alone perfectly captures the chaos, humor, and heart of the holidays. Watching Kevin McCallister outwit burglars while embracing the spirit of Christmas is a yearly tradition for many families. It’s also a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures happen when plans go a little off track—something every Disney traveler can relate to when Lightning Lane times don’t quite go as planned.Credit: Disney10. Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed In at the House of MouseThis is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every Disney fan’s list. When the characters from across Disney’s universe get snowed in at the House of Mouse, they share stories and songs to pass the time. Mickey’s Magical Christmas: Snowed In at the House of Mouse is filled with nostalgic cameos and classic animation. It feels like a warm gathering of old friends—much like meeting your favorite characters during a Disney World holiday meet-and-greet.Credit: DisneyWrapping Up the MagicWhether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or planning your very first holiday visit, these movies are the perfect way to build excitement and soak in the spirit before your trip. They remind you of everything that makes Disney World—and Christmas—so special: family, fun, laughter, and a little bit of magic.The best part? Most of these movies are available right now on Disney+, ready to stream as you count down the days. So grab some popcorn, snuggle under a blanket, and let the holiday magic begin before you even set foot in the parks.The post The 10 Best Movies To Watch Before Taking a Trip To Disney World This Christmas appeared first on Inside the Magic.