Epcot Candlelight Processional Dinner Packages

Question

Hi friends!

Heading to Disney in December with a big priority on the Epcot Candlelight Processional! Our plan is to secure a dining package with guaranteed seating and I was wondering if anyone had any tips.

We really want to go on Dec 7 to see Ralph Macchio, but other than that we are totally open, any restaurant, any showtime. We arrive on December 4, staying onsite, so technically our dining reservation window opens on October 4 but it looks like reservations for this package won't be available until October 14.

Does anyone know what time these might open? Midnight? 6am? Any restaurants with better chance of availability? I'm assuming the latest showtime will probably be easiest to secure? We will be a party of 2 adults.

Thank you!

Answer

The Epcot Candlelight Processional is one of Disney World’s most popular holiday events, so securing a dining package is a smart move if you want guaranteed seating. Since you’re aiming for December 7 with Ralph Macchio as the narrator, timing is especially important.

Regarding when reservations open: Dining package bookings typically become available at 6:00 AM Eastern Time on the announced date (in your case, October 14). While technically you could try at midnight, historically Disney’s reservation system starts processing them at 6:00 AM. Being ready at that time with your My Disney Experience account logged in will give you the best chance.

Here are some tips for booking:

Opt for less popular restaurants: Quick-service or restaurants slightly off the main Epcot World Showcase loop sometimes have more availability.
Consider later showtimes: The latest showtime of the evening can indeed be easier to secure, as earlier shows tend to book quickly.
Be flexible with dates: If Ralph Macchio’s date is fully booked, check the day before or after to see if the same package is available.
Check for cancellations: Disney dining often has last-minute cancellations. Logging in early on the day you want can sometimes snag a table.

As a party of 2 adults, you generally have a better chance than larger groups, especially if you’re flexible with the restaurant or showtime. Popular Epcot restaurants that frequently offer Candlelight Processional packages include:

Le Cellier Steakhouse (Canada Pavilion)
Via Napoli (Italy Pavilion)
Rose & Crown Dining Room (UK Pavilion)
Tokyo Dining (Japan Pavilion)
Coral Reef Restaurant (The Seas Pavilion)

Overall, for your December 7 date, plan to log in right at 6:00 AM ET on October 14, be ready to select alternate restaurants or the latest showtime, and have your payment and My Disney Experience account information ready for a smooth booking. Persistence and flexibility are key to getting the preferred narrator and showtime.

Epcot Candlelight Processional Dinner Packages

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