Picture this: you're nestled in a cushioned chair in Town Square on Main Street, candlelight flickering across hundreds of choir members dressed in gold robes, the Disneyland Orchestra swelling behind them as a Hollywood celebrity narrates the Christmas story. Meanwhile, thousands of other guests stand for hours in the cold or watch from a distance hoping to catch a glimpse of the same show you're experiencing from the best seat in the house!

Welcome to the Club 33 Candlelight Processional, one of the most exclusive and coveted holiday experiences at Disneyland!

This isn't your typical Disney event! We're talking about an invitation-only tradition that dates back to 1958, steeped in Walt Disney's original vision for bringing community and magic together during the holidays. If you've heard whispers about this magical evening but weren't sure what makes it so special or how you could possibly experience it, you're in exactly the right place!

I'm sharing everything I know about this extraordinary event, from its fascinating history to insider tips on viewing it (even if you're not in that exclusive seating area)! If you’re curious about one of Disney's best-kept holiday secrets, then keep reading!

What Makes the Club 33 Candlelight Processional So Special?

Here's the thing that sets Disneyland's Candlelight Processional apart from every other Disney holiday event, it only happens twice a year! That's right, just two nights, with two performances each evening, typically on the first weekend of December.

Compare that to Walt Disney World's version at EPCOT, which runs throughout the entire month of December with three shows nightly. Disneyland's intimate, exclusive approach makes this feel less like a theme park production and more like receiving a personal invitation to something truly magical.

The 45-minute show is a breathtaking musical retelling of "The First Christmas" story, featuring a 600-person mass choir that processes down Main Street carrying lit candles. You'll experience the Disneyland Symphony Orchestra, fanfare trumpeters positioned atop the Main Street Train Station, handbell ringers, and a celebrity narrator who reads portions of the Biblical nativity story between stunning performances of classic holiday hymns like "We Three Kings," "Silent Night," and Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus".

The Club 33 Advantage

Now here's where Club 33 members get the royal treatment. While regular park guests camp out all day, some arriving as early as 8:00 AM, to secure standing-room spots with obstructed views! Club 33 members receive reserved chair seating with unobstructed, prime views of the entire production!

You simply show up 15-20 minutes before showtime, take your comfortable seat in Town Square directly facing the Main Street Train Station stage, and enjoy the performance without fighting crowds or standing for hours in the December chill. After the show, you can stroll over to Club 33 for dinner or drinks, making it a complete luxury evening!

This perk alone is worth highlighting when you consider the membership's value during the holiday season!

The Fascinating History Behind This Disney Tradition

Let me take you back to where it all started, because understanding the history makes experiencing this event even more meaningful! Of course it starts with the most visionary man in Disney history! If you think about it, he really came up with some of the best traditions that continue to this day!

Walt Disney's Vision

For Disneyland's very first Christmas celebration in 1955, Walt Disney wanted something special. He enlisted Dr. Charles C. Hirt from the USC Thornton School of Music to create a group of Dickens carolers who would roam the park spreading holiday cheer. These singers, along with guest choirs, performed at a small bandstand near Sleeping Beauty Castle that was renamed the "Christmas Bowl".

The response was so overwhelming that by 1957, the guest choirs began following the Christmas Around the World Parade in a procession from the castle to Town Square. But there was a problem—the circular staging made it nearly impossible for guests to see the performance.

Dr. Hirt suggested something bolder to Walt: a full candlelight procession and ceremony. Walt loved it, and in 1958, the first official Candlelight Processional was born. Bleachers were constructed in front of the Main Street Train Station, and the massed choirs now faced their audience, creating the staging you still see today.

The Celebrity Narrator

In 1961, actor Dennis Morgan became the first celebrity narrator, setting a tradition that continues today. Morgan returned from 1962-1964, sharing duties with Gale Storm in 1962. Then in 1965, Dick Van Dyke, fresh from his success in Mary Poppins, narrated what would be Walt Disney's last Candlelight Processional. Walt passed away in December 1966, making this tradition one of the last holiday gifts he personally experienced.

Past narrators read like a Hollywood Hall of Fame: Cary Grant, John Wayne, James Stewart, Gary Sinise, Kurt Russell, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pratt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Brie Larson, Kathryn Hahn, and Benjamin Bratt (the 2025 narrator). The narrator is kept secret until sound check on the afternoon of the first performance, adding an element of delightful surprise.

From Community Event to Club 33 Exclusive

What started as a community celebration has evolved into primarily an invitation-only event for Disney VIPs, Club 33 members, media representatives, and civic leaders. The seated area accommodates only several hundred guests, making those reserved seats incredibly precious!

Disneyland barely promotes the event because of its exclusive nature. But here's what's beautiful, even though seating is reserved, the event takes place during regular park hours on Main Street, allowing all guests to experience the magic, they just need to plan strategically (more on that in a moment!)!

Understanding the Club 33 Membership

So, getting into Club 33 is notoriously difficult, tons of people try every year! More people try to get in than actually do. I’ve put together some things you should know and can do that might help you with the process. Keep in mind though that you’re best chance to get in is through a current member!

The Membership Fees

Club 33 at Disneyland requires a significant financial commitment:

Initiation fee: $25,000-$65,000 (depending on membership level and whether it's individual or corporate)
Annual dues: $10,000-$31,500
Platinum membership (the only level currently offered) includes four Premier Passports valid at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, 50 complimentary one-day park hopper tickets for guests, VIP tour access, hotel upgrades, valet parking, and special events

When you do the math, you're looking at over $30,000 the first year, then five figures annually to maintain membership. It's definitely an investment!

The Benefits Beyond Candlelight

But what are you getting for that investment? Beyond guaranteed Candlelight Processional seating, Club 33 members can enjoy:

Access to exclusive dining locations throughout Disneyland Resort, including Le Grand Salon, Le Salon Nouveau, and the 1901 Lounge
No blackout dates on Magic Key passes
Access to Disneyland VIP Tour guides throughout the year
Members-only merchandise (including exclusive Candlelight pins, more on those later!)
Special holiday events and offerings
Reserved seating and viewing for other park events
Priority access and concierge services
Discount on the 21 Royal exclusive dining experience

How to Apply for the Club 33 Membership

Here's the reality: you can't just pay your way in. The process involves:

Fill out the Membership Interest Form on the official Disneyland Club 33 website or contact Club33@Disneyland.com
Wait! The current waitlist is estimated at 5-10 years for Disneyland
Receive an invitation (if selected) asking for a family biography and references from current members
Background check and approval by Club 33 leadership
Make your payment and become part of this exclusive community

Many successful applicants either have connections to current members, work for companies with corporate memberships, or have significant business relationships with Disney. But anyone can submit an interest form, you just need patience and perhaps a bit of Disney magic on your side! They also do an extensive background check on you, what. you do for work, do you help the community, do you donate to charities etc. They’re pretty extensive when it comes to the whole thing!

What to Expect at the Club 33 Candlelight Processional Performance

I’m going to try and explain what this amazing experience actually feels like, because it's truly something special! It doesn’t matter if your religious or not, you’ll find yourself drawn into the incredible performances!

The Processional Begins

As dusk settles over Disneyland and the lights dim on Main Street, you'll see choir members begin to gather near "it's a small world" for the first show (5:30 PM) or near The Little Red Wagon on Main Street for the second show (7:45 PM). Think of it like a parade, but shorter and infinitely more reverent.

The 600+ choir members, dressed in flowing gold robes and carrying lit white candles, process down Main Street in formation. The sight of hundreds of candles illuminating Main Street as the choirs sing Christmas carols is spine-tingling!

The Performance Setup

The choirs arrange themselves on tiered platforms on the steps of the Main Street Train Station, facing Town Square. At the top of the formation, select cast members dressed in deep green robes create what's called the "Living Christmas Tree"—a tradition dating back to Anaheim's Western High School A Cappella Choir in 1958.

The celebrity narrator stands at a podium in Town Square, while the Disneyland Orchestra spreads across the performance area. Fanfare trumpeters position themselves atop the train station for dramatic effect.

The Music and Story

The 45-minute program weaves together:

Processional songs:

Deck the Halls
O Little Town of Bethlehem
O Come All Ye Faithful
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Here We Come A-Caroling
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

Main performance songs:

Sing Praise to Him, Our Lord
The First Noel
Away in a Manger
He is Born
Angels We Have Heard on High
What Child is This
We Three Kings
Sing Noel
Joy to the World
Silent Night (often performed bilingually in English and Spanish, creating a beautiful, inclusive moment)
O Come All Ye Faithful (reprise)
Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah

Between songs, the celebrity narrator reads passages from the Gospel of Luke, telling the story of Jesus's birth in Bethlehem. The narration doesn't take liberties with the biblical account, it's a straightforward, reverent retelling.

The Emotional Impact

Here's something I've noticed from reading countless reviews: people tear up during this show. Even guests who aren't particularly religious or who've seen it multiple times describe getting goosebumps and feeling deeply moved.

There's something about a thousand voices singing together, the flickering candlelight, the professional orchestration, and the warm December evening that creates a profound sense of peace and community. The Hallelujah Chorus finale often leaves the audience in stunned silence before erupting into applause.

The Club 33 Exclusive Candlelight Pins

One of the coolest perks for Club 33 members attending Candlelight is the exclusive limited edition commemorative pin you receive! These can be rare so if you get the chance to grab one do it! Keep it somewhere safe where it can’t get damaged!

What Makes These Pins Special

Each year, Club 33 creates a unique Candlelight pin available only to members attending the event. These pins are highly collectible and typically limited to just 600 pieces.

2025 Pin: Features a choir on Main Street facing Sleeping Beauty Castle with the gold Club 33 logo in the top right. The bottom displays "CANDLELIGHT" in light blue, "Disneyland" in pink, and "2025" in gold. The pin comes in a dark blue box with "Club Thirty-Three" in gold script.

2024 Pin: Showcased the Main Street train station with the candlelight choir as a pin-on-pin element. Club Thirty-Three written in raised script on the front, with limited edition numbering of 600.

These pins are never sold to the general public and often become valuable collector's items within the Disney pin trading community. For members, they're a beautiful keepsake of an unforgettable evening!

General Public Candlelight Pins

While the Club 33 pins are exclusive, Disneyland does release a public Candlelight pin each year, typically available at the Emporium on Main Street for around $22.99. The 2025 public pin features Kermit and Miss Piggy in front of the Main Street train station reading the Christmas story.

How to Experience Candlelight Processional Without Club 33 Membership

I know what you're thinking, "This sounds amazing, but I'm not a Club 33 member. Can I still experience this?" Absolutely! Here are some tips for viewing the Processional throughout the Park!

The Main Street Standing Area

The most popular option is staking out a standing spot in Town Square or along Main Street. Here's what seasoned visitors recommend:

Best viewing locations:

In front of the Fire Station (left side of Town Square) - This area is close to the narrator's podium and offers decent views
Near the Mr. Lincoln building (right side of Town Square) - Another prime spot on the opposite side
Along Main Street - You'll see the processional pass by and can hear the performance, though you won't have the full visual experience

Timing is everything:

For the first show (5:30 PM), arrive by 3:00-4:00 PM to secure a good spot
For the second show (7:45 PM), here's the insider trick: camp out along Main Street for the second parade (around 3:00 PM), then when the second Candlelight processional begins around 7:30 PM, cast members typically allow you to follow the choir into Town Square viewing areas

What to bring:

Warm layers! December temperatures in Anaheim can drop into the 50s°F in the evening
Comfortable shoes for standing 3-4 hours
Snacks and water
A portable phone charger
Something to sit on if arriving very early

Watch for Empty Seats

Here's a little-known secret: if there are empty seats in the reserved area right before showtime, Disneyland sometimes allows standby guests to fill them. You need to be near the front of the standby line for this to work, and there are absolutely no guarantees, but it does happen!

Position yourself near the entrance to the seating area about 30 minutes before showtime and wait to see if cast members make an announcement. You can even talk with a cast member beforehand and see if they know of anything!

Catch the Processional Along the Parade Route

If camping out for hours isn't your style, you can still experience the magic of the candlelight processional as it makes its way down Main Street.

The first processional starts at "it's a small world" and travels down Main Street to Town Square. The second processional begins near The Little Red Wagon on Main Street. Position yourself along the parade route 15-20 minutes before the processional time for a beautiful, albeit brief, experience.

While you won't see the full performance, watching 600 choir members in gold robes carrying lit candles as they sing Christmas carols while processing down Main Street is genuinely magical.

Important Considerations

Plan ahead: The area around Town Square typically closes off around 4:00 PM for the first show as they set up the seating and stage area.

Be respectful: This is a reverent ceremony. While photography is allowed, avoid using flash or holding up devices that block others' views.

Accessibility: If you're using a wheelchair or mobility device, speak with a cast member early in the day. There are accessible viewing areas available.

Club 33 Holiday Season

If you're fortunate enough to be a Club 33 member or guest during the holidays, the Candlelight Processional is just the beginning of your exclusive experiences! They put up some really fun decorations during the holiday season, starting in the Court of Angels! Plus, they have specific holiday merchandise that you can’t get any other time! It really is so much fun to go during the holiday season! Check out my full guide on Club 33 Holiday Season!

Holiday Decorations and Dining

From mid-November through early January, Club 33 transforms into a winter wonderland. Picture:

A massive Christmas tree in Le Grand Salon reaching nearly to the ceiling, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and custom Club 33 ornaments featuring Alfred the vulture in festive attire
Fresh pine garland draping the grand staircase
Red and gold ribbons accenting the hallways
Victorian-era ornaments throughout
The Haunted Mansion-themed booth getting subtle "Nightmare Before Christmas" touches
Candles in hurricane lamps creating warm, flickering ambiance

Chef Andrew Sutton creates a special seasonal menu featuring holiday-inspired dishes that changes every year but always includes festive twists on Club 33 signature items.

Members-Only Holiday Events

Details are kept confidential due to NDAs, but Club 33 typically hosts exclusive holiday celebrations for members and their families, featuring:

Open bar with holiday specialty drinks
Passed hors d'oeuvres and dessert stations
Live entertainment (jazz bands or Disney carolers)
Character appearances in holiday attire
Exclusive merchandise reveals
Special recognition for longtime members

New Year's Eve at Club 33

Members who secure reservations for New Year's Eve (booking months in advance!) experience:

A special five-course menu
Champagne toasts at midnight
Prime balcony viewing for fireworks
No crowds, no chaos—just elegance and celebration
Sometimes a private countdown party with live music and dancing in Le Salon Nouveau

Fireworks Viewing Year-Round

One of my favorite Club 33 perks during the holidays is the balconies off Le Grand Salon and Le Salon Nouveau offer views of the "Believe... in Holiday Magic" fireworks! Time your dinner reservation to end during the fireworks show for an unforgettable experience!

Comparing Disneyland to EPCOT Candlelight Processional

If you're a Disney fan who visits both coasts, you might wonder how the two Candlelight Processionals compare. Here's some information I’ve gathered over all my experience at both:

Key Differences

Happens more often and easier to get in:

Disneyland: 2 nights only (first weekend of December), 2 shows each night, invitation-only seating
EPCOT: 32 nights (late November-December 30), 3 shows each night, open to all guests with reserved seating available via dining packages

Venue:

Disneyland: Outdoors on Main Street Train Station steps, seated guests in Town Square
EPCOT: America Gardens Theatre, a covered outdoor amphitheater seating 1,000+ guests

Atmosphere:

Disneyland: Intimate, exclusive, community-focused with local Southern California choirs
EPCOT: Grand production, part of Festival of the Holidays, features student choirs from across the country

Narrator:

Disneyland: One narrator for all four shows, kept secret until sound check
EPCOT: 15+ narrators rotating throughout the month, announced in advance

Choir Composition:

Disneyland: Disney Cast Member Choir forms the "Living Christmas Tree," local high school and community choirs, approximately 600 total singers
EPCOT: Voices of Liberty, visiting student choirs, Disney cast members, approximately 180-200 total singers

Music:

Both feature similar core songs and arrangements, many by the same composers

Which Experience is "Better"?

Honestly, they each offer something unique! Disneyland's version feels like an exclusive gift, a special privilege that you had to work to experience. EPCOT's version is more inclusive and accessible, with the full production value of a major theater performance.

If you value exclusivity and intimate settings, Disneyland wins. If you want guaranteed seating and multiple opportunities to see the show, EPCOT is your answer. But both are absolutely worth experiencing if you have the chance!

Planning Your December Disneyland Visit Around Candlelight

I’ll tell ya, if you're planning a trip specifically to experience (or try to experience) the Candlelight Processional, here are some thing you should consider:

2026 Dates (Projected)

While Disneyland hasn't officially announced 2026 dates, based on historical patterns, expect the Candlelight Processional on Saturday and Sunday, December 5-6, 2026, with performances at 5:30 PM and 7:45 PM each evening.

Mark your calendar early because these dates fill up fast for Club 33 members!

Weather and What to Wear

December in Anaheim is gorgeous but can surprise you with temperature swings. Be sure to check the weather the day before and continually the day of incase things change quickly! Pack something for every possibility, jacket, rain coat, hat, long sleeve shirt and pants.

Daytime highs: Low to mid-70s°F
Evening lows: Mid-50s°F, occasionally dropping into the 40s°F
Rainfall: December is one of the driest months

What to wear for Candlelight:

Layers! Start with a light long-sleeve shirt
Bring a jacket or sweater for evening temperatures
Comfortable shoes for standing (if you're not in reserved seating)
Consider festive attire, many guests dress up a bit for this elegant event

There's no official dress code for viewing the processional from standing areas, but Club 33 members dining before or after typically opt for business casual or cocktail attire.

Park Crowds and Tips

The first December weekend at Disneyland is generally moderate in crowd levels, but Candlelight Processional creates concentrated crowds in specific areas:

Main Street and Town Square will be extremely crowded from mid-afternoon through both show times
Fantasyland and Toontown remain relatively calm during the shows
Consider experiencing other attractions while Candlelight is happening if you're not watching
The Christmas Fantasy Parade runs at 12:45 PM and 3:00 PM on Candlelight days—factor this into your viewing strategy

Making the Most of Your Holiday Visit

Beyond Candlelight Processional, December at Disneyland offers:

"it's a small world" Holiday overlay
Haunted Mansion Holiday (Nightmare Before Christmas theme)
"Believe... in Holiday Magic" fireworks
A Christmas Fantasy Parade
Holiday decorations throughout the park
Special holiday foods and merchandise
Main Street decorated for the season with snowfall effects

Consider spacing out your must-see holiday experiences across your visit rather than cramming everything into one day!

Insider Tips from Cast Members and Frequent Visitors

Let me share some wisdom from people who've experienced this event multiple times, including cast members who perform in the Disney Employee Choir. Hopefully these tips can help you enjoy the show a little bit more when you attend!

For Those Viewing from Standing Areas

Arrive early and be prepared to wait. There's no shortcut here. The most dedicated guests arrive when the park opens and camp out all day.

Bring a friend for bathroom/food runs. You don't want to lose your spot after waiting for hours.

The second show is slightly less crowded than the first, though not by much.

Stand near the front on your tiptoes or bring a small stool (check current park rules on what's allowed). Tall people in front of you can completely block your view.

Following the second parade strategy works! Multiple guests confirm that following the choir from the parade route into Town Square after the second parade is legitimate and effective.

For Club 33 Members and Guests

RSVP early! Holiday reservations for Club 33 book up weeks in advance. If you're a member, reach out to your concierge as soon as the dates are announced.

Plan dinner around the experience. Many members book dinner at Club 33 before or after the show, making it a complete evening.

Arrive 15-20 minutes early to get settled and soak in the pre-show atmosphere.

Bring your phone or camera, but be respectful with usage. The lighting is tricky, so consider enjoying it with your eyes and saving just a few memory shots.

Don't forget to pick up your exclusive commemorative pin! It's a beautiful keepsake of this special evening.

Photography Tips for the Show

If you're hoping to capture this magical moment, here are some professional tips:

Use a fast lens (f/2.8 or wider) if you have one
Bump your ISO to 800-1600 to compensate for low light
Steady your camera against a railing or use a small Gorillapod (full tripods aren't allowed)
Shoot during the processional when the candles create beautiful lighting
Try slow shutter speeds (1/15 to 1/50 second) during the choir's entrance for artistic effect
Avoid flash—it's distracting and won't reach the stage anyway
Take test shots early and adjust settings before the show starts
Consider video—the music and atmosphere are as important as the visuals

My best advice is to put the camera down for most of the show and just be present in the moment! You can always find professional recordings online, but you'll never get back the chance to experience it fully in person!

Cast Member Perspectives

Cast members who perform in the Disney Employee Choir share that this is one of their most meaningful experiences. They rehearse for months, and many have deeply personal connections to the tradition, one cast member promised a friend battling cancer that he'd continue performing in her honor, and has done so since 2005!

If you see the show, take a moment to appreciate that the performers you're watching juggle their regular Disney jobs (from bus drivers to restaurant servers to corporate employees) with this volunteer commitment, just to share this gift with guests.

About Club 33 Candlelight Processional

Is Club 33 membership worth it just for Candlelight Processional?

Honestly, the Candlelight Processional seating alone probably doesn't justify the $30,000+ first-year cost. But when you combine it with all the other year-round perks, exclusive dining, no blackout dates, VIP tours, 50 park tickets for guests, special events, it becomes a lifestyle choice for serious Disney enthusiasts who visit frequently.

Can I buy tickets to Candlelight Processional at Disneyland?

No. Unlike EPCOT's version, Disneyland's Candlelight Processional does not sell tickets to the public. Reserved seating is exclusively for invited guests, Club 33 members, Disney VIPs, media, and civic leaders.

How is Club 33 Candlelight different from a dining package at EPCOT?

EPCOT's dining packages (starting around $40-100+ per person) guarantee you reserved seating at one of three nightly shows throughout December. Disneyland's Club 33 seating is included with membership but isn't sold separately—it's a members-only benefit for just four shows total per year.

What happens if it rains during Candlelight Processional?

Disneyland's Candlelight Processional is an outdoor event, and December is fortunately one of the driest months in Southern California. If severe weather threatens, Disney may cancel or modify the show. Club 33 members would be notified directly.

Can children attend the Club 33 Candlelight Processional?

Yes! Children are welcome at both the reserved seating and standing viewing areas. However, it's a 45-minute performance that requires sitting (or standing) relatively still, so consider your child's age and attention span. The music and candles often captivate even young children, but bring quiet activities just in case.

Is the show religious? Will I feel uncomfortable if I'm not Christian?

The Candlelight Processional is an explicitly Christian telling of the Christmas nativity story, featuring Bible passages from the Gospel of Luke. However, many non-Christian guests have shared that they find the music, artistry, and message of peace and goodwill universal and moving.

If you're uncomfortable with religious content, this probably isn't the show for you. But if you can appreciate it as a cultural tradition and musical performance, many guests of all backgrounds find it beautiful.

How do I know who the narrator will be?

You don't! Disneyland keeps the celebrity narrator secret until the afternoon sound check before the first show. Rumors usually circulate, but they're often wrong. Part of the fun is the surprise! Past narrators have included major stars with Disney film connections.

Is there accessible seating for guests with disabilities?

Yes! If you use a wheelchair or mobility device, speak with a cast member early in the day. There are accessible viewing areas available, though they fill up quickly. Club 33 members with accessibility needs should communicate this when making their reservation.

Can I leave and come back during the show?

Once you're in your seat (for reserved seating) or viewing position (for standing areas), leaving means giving up your spot. The show is 45 minutes long, so plan bathroom breaks accordingly!

What's the best show time to attend?

The 7:45 PM second show offers a more atmospheric candlelight experience since it's fully dark by then. However, it's also typically more crowded. If you have young children or prefer lighter crowds, the 5:30 PM first show might be better.

Are there any other ways to access reserved seating besides Club 33?

Occasionally, Disneyland extends personal invitations to VIPs, business partners, local government officials, media representatives, and winners of special sweepstakes. Some companies also maintain their own Club 33 corporate memberships and invite employees or clients. Your best bet? Know someone who's a member and hope they invite you as their guest!

What songs are performed during the show?

The setlist includes traditional Christmas hymns and carols like "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Silent Night," "Joy to the World," "We Three Kings," and the spectacular finale of Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus". The music is largely consistent year to year, with occasional additions or changes.

How early should I apply for Club 33 membership if I want to experience Candlelight?

Given the current 5-10 year waitlist for Disneyland's Club 33, if you're serious about membership, apply now! Submit your interest form at Disneyland.com/Club-33 or email Club33@Disneyland.com. Just remember that acceptance isn't guaranteed, and the decision is entirely at Disney's discretion.

Can I see the EPCOT Candlelight Processional instead?

Absolutely! EPCOT's version is much more accessible to the general public, with dining packages available to guarantee seating. It runs throughout December with three shows nightly, giving you many more opportunities to experience it. While different in feel from Disneyland's intimate version, it's equally spectacular!

Do I need park admission to attend Candlelight if I'm a Club 33 member?

Yes, you still need valid park admission (which Club 33 members receive as part of their membership benefits). The Candlelight seating is an additional perk, not a separate ticketed event.

The Magic of Club 33 Candlelight Processional

Let me close with something personal that I've learned from researching countless guest experiences and reviews.

The Club 33 Candlelight Processional isn't just about exclusivity or luxury seating. It's about being part of something bigger, a tradition that Walt Disney himself created and experienced. It's about 600 voices joining together to tell a story that has been told for centuries. It's about cast members who volunteer countless hours rehearsing and performing because this event means something to them personally!

I've read reviews from guests who've attended every year for 16 years and still tear up during the Hallelujah Chorus. From cast members who met their spouses in the Disney Employee Choir. From people who aren't religious but find themselves moved by the music and sense of peace.

You could be sitting in a reserved Club 33 chair or standing on your tiptoes at the back of the crowd, you're experiencing a piece of Disney history that has brought joy and wonder to millions over nearly 70 years. You're part of a moment where Disney's storytelling magic, musical artistry, and commitment to tradition come together in the most beautiful way.

And honestly, that's pretty special, no matter where you're watching from!

How to Attend the Club 33 Candlelight Processional

So where do you go from here?

If you're interested in Club 33 membership: Be prepared for a long wait and significant investment, but know that you'd be joining one of the most unique membership communities in the theme park world.

If you're planning to view Candlelight as a regular guest: Mark your calendar for December 5-6, 2026 (projected dates). Start planning your viewing strategy, pack layers, and prepare for an incredible experience even from standing areas. Remember: following the second parade strategy around 3:00 PM can position you well for the 7:45 PM show.

If you're considering both coasts: Don't overlook EPCOT's Candlelight Processional! Dining packages go on sale 60 days in advance and offer a more accessible way to experience this tradition with guaranteed seating. With 15+ celebrity narrators rotating through December, you might even catch your favorite performer.

If you just want to learn more: Follow Disney fan blogs and social media accounts in early December to see photos and videos from that year's performances. The narrator reveal usually leaks on social media during sound check around 3-4 PM on the first Saturday.

No matter your path to experiencing this magical tradition, I hope this guide has given you all the insider knowledge you need to make the most of it. The Candlelight Processional experienced from a Club 33 reserved seat or from the bustling crowds of Main Street represents everything wonderful about Disney during the holidays, tradition, community, artistry, and that unmistakable Disney magic that makes even grown adults believe in the impossible!

Here's to your own candlelight experience, however you make it happen. And who knows? Maybe I'll see you in Town Square one magical December evening, watching hundreds of candles flicker against the night sky while those gorgeous voices ring out across Main Street!

Attending the Exclusive Club 33 Candlelight Processional at Disneyland