New Christmas Movie Brings Disney World & Hallmark Together for First Time

A festive first is here as two titans of holiday magic, Hallmark Channel and Walt Disney World, officially come together. They are teaming up for an original Christmas movie that will film on location at the iconic Florida resort.

New Christmas movie marks first collaboration between Hallmark and Disney World

According to Variety, the first-ever Hallmark and Disney World collaboration, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True, stars Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle. The cast also includes Richard Kind, Christy Carlson Romano, Taegen Burns, Asher Alexander, with Patrick Renna in a cameo role.

The project is written and directed by Ryan Landels. It was announced during Hallmark’s The Hallmark Christmas Experience: A Hometown Holiday special. The movie will premiere during the network’s 17th annual Countdown to Christmas in 2026.

The story follows Lindsey (Chabert) during her dream Disney World Christmas vacation. Her plans begin to unravel. She soon learns her disastrous recent first date, Philip (Van Winkle), is staying next door with his family. As their paths cross, the initial tension slowly fades. With a little Walt Disney World magic, their rivalry might just turn into romance.

This cinematic partnership is a natural extension of a decades-long relationship between the two brands. “The history between Hallmark and Disney dates back decades, when a shared Kansas City connection and friendship between Hallmark’s founder, J.C. Hall, and Walt Disney himself led to our first-ever licensed products, including the very first greeting card featuring Mickey Mouse,” said Darren Abbott, chief brand officer at Hallmark.

“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.”

Disney echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the shared creative spirit behind the collaboration. “Storytelling is at the heart of both Disney and Hallmark, and that magic shines even brighter during the holidays,” Sally Conner, Disney’s vice president of global content, said. “We’re thrilled that Walt Disney World will serve as the immersive setting for a Hallmark holiday movie highlighting the cheerful festivities of the season. This film is a wonderful way to share that joy and pixie dust with fans everywhere.”

Hallmark and Disney confirmed an exclusive line of movie-themed merchandise will launch next holiday season. The collection will include greeting cards, ornaments, gifts, and themed wrap inspired by Holiday Ever After.

Source: Comingsoon.net