This holiday season marks a significant milestone as the Hallmark Channel announces its inaugural collaboration with Walt Disney World. Titled Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True, this original film aims to bring the joy of Christmas alive in the enchanting backdrop of Disney’s iconic Florida resort. Featuring lead performances from Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle, the film is set to deliver a delightful narrative filled with festive cheer.
The announcement of this unique project was made during the recent event, The Hallmark Christmas Experience: A Hometown Holiday. This special aired following Chabert’s latest film, She’s Making A List. With Ryan Landels serving as both writer and director, the heartwarming story is scheduled to premiere during the 2026 Countdown to Christmas, marking the 17th annual celebration.
Plot overview and characters
The essence of Holiday Ever After revolves around Lindsey, portrayed by Chabert, who, along with her extended family, embarks on a journey to Disney World for a magical Christmas getaway. However, her holiday spirit faces an unexpected twist when she discovers that her accommodations are situated next to Philip, played by Van Winkle—a reminder of a disastrous date from her past. As fate would have it, both are at Disney World for family vacations, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt encounters.
Throughout their stay, the initial frostiness between Lindsey and Philip begins to thaw as they discover the similarities that bind them together. The story takes a whimsical turn when Lindsey makes a wish at the Cinderella Fountain, hinting that perhaps the magic of Disney could turn their initial rivalry into a blossoming romance.
The significance of the Hallmark and Disney partnership
The collaboration between Hallmark and Disney is steeped in a rich history that dates back many years. According to Darren Abbott, the chief brand officer at Hallmark, the partnership originated from a shared connection in Kansas City between Hallmark’s founder, J.C. Hall, and Walt Disney. This long-standing relationship paved the way for the first licensed products, including iconic merchandise like greeting cards featuring Mickey Mouse.
Abbott expressed enthusiasm about extending their partnership into the realm of filmmaking, stating, “We’re thrilled to expand our partnership beyond the products we create together and onto the screen with this heartwarming and joyful Christmas movie that embodies the very best of both brands.”
Embracing the holiday spirit
Adding to the excitement, Sally Conner, Disney’s vice president of global content, emphasized the shared commitment to storytelling that both companies cherish. “Storytelling is at the heart of both Disney and Hallmark, and that magic shines even brighter during the holidays,” she noted, reinforcing the idea that the film will showcase the cheerful festivities unique to the Disney experience.
At Disney parks and resorts, countless stories and memories are crafted daily, and this film aims to encapsulate that joy. It is an endeavor to share the delightful moments that families create during the holiday season, making it an experience not just for those visiting Disney World but for fans around the globe.
Merchandising for the film
In conjunction with the movie’s release, Hallmark and Disney will unveil a special collection of merchandise inspired by the film. This exclusive lineup will include greeting cards, festive ornaments, unique gifts, and wrapping paper designed to enhance the holiday spirit. These products will be available for fans during the next holiday season, allowing them to bring a piece of the movie into their own celebrations.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement continues to build around the collaboration between Hallmark and Disney, promising a captivating festive experience that will resonate with audiences seeking warmth, humor, and the magic of Christmas.
