Disney launches holiday campaign with new short film, festive celebrations and more
Disney is kicking off the holiday season with a new short film and a series of festive celebrations and experiences for families around the world.
The Walt Disney Company announced Monday on "Good Morning America" the launch of its new global holiday campaign, "Make the Holidays Magic," which includes holiday entertainment across Disney's theme parks, streaming platforms and television networks, as well as charitable initiatives for children and families.
The campaign kicks off with "A Disney Holiday Short: The Invisible Horse," a new short film directed by Dougal Wilson.
The film follows Jack, a young boy who believes he has outgrown the magic of Christmas. When a mysterious invisible creature enters his life, Jack goes on an adventure that sparks his imagination and brings him closer to his family.
The short film is available to watch on Disney+ and online.
"Disney has long been part of the traditions, memories, and moments that make the holiday season so special for families around the world," Asad Ayaz, chief marketing and brand officer of The Walt Disney Company, said in a statement.
"This season, we’re bringing the best of Disney together to give families more ways to make the holidays magic: a trip they’ll talk about for years, a new favorite to watch together, the perfect gift under the tree and, for the children and families who need it most, a wish come true," Ayaz added.
Disney brings holiday celebrations to its theme parks and cruises
As part of the campaign, Disney is bringing back holiday celebrations at its theme parks around the world.
At Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, guests can celebrate with Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Disney Jollywood Nights and the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.
At Disneyland Resort in California, holiday favorites including "A Christmas Fantasy Parade," "it's a small world" Holiday and "World of Color – Season of Light" are returning.
Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort will also offer holiday celebrations, while select Disney Cruise Line sailings will feature holiday decorations, character experiences and entertainment as part of Very Merrytime Cruises.
For families celebrating at home, Disney+ and Hulu will offer holiday movies including "Home Alone," "A Christmas Story," "Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas" and "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."
New holiday specials include "Mickey's Home Alone," "A Proud Family Wizmas," "Dasher" and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: The Getaway."
On ABC, holiday programming will include "Dancing with the Holidays," "CMA Country Christmas," "The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular" and "Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade."
Freeform will also bring back its annual "25 Days of Christmas" programming event, which runs from Dec. 1 through Christmas Day.
Disney partners with nonprofits to spread holiday cheer
In addition to its holiday entertainment, Disney is partnering with Make-A-Wish, Blue Star Families, Toys for Tots and other nonprofit organizations to support children and families throughout the season.
In the announcement, Disney said the initiatives will include granting wishes, providing special experiences for military families and delivering toys and surprises to children around the world.
The efforts will include special events, performances, talent appearances, toy drives and Disney Store shopping sprees, with activities across Disney Parks, Disney on Broadway and Disney on Ice.
Some of the initiatives will also be featured on shows including "Good Morning America," "The View," "Tamron Hall" and "Live with Kelly and Mark."
Fans can participate by visiting Disney.com/HolidayMagic, where they can donate to Make-A-Wish or contribute a toy to Toys for Tots through Disney Store.
Disney holiday gifts and merchandise
The campaign also includes holiday shopping offerings, with toys, apparel, accessories, books and collectibles inspired by Disney characters and stories, including "Toy Story 5," "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Home Alone," as well as Winnie the Pooh's 100th anniversary.
The merchandise will be available through Disney Store and retailers including Amazon, Walmart and Target.
Disney's "Make the Holidays Magic" campaign will continue throughout the holiday season.
The Walt Disney Co. is the parent company of ABC News, Disney+ and Hulu.
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