Disney and Hallmark Unite for Magical Holiday Movie Collaboration

There’s a new kind of holiday magic brewing in Hollywood. This time, it’s coming from two entertainment giants who definitely know how to tug at our heartstrings.

Disney and the Hallmark Channel are officially teaming up for a festive feature called Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True. For the first time ever, Walt Disney World will be the backdrop for a Hallmark original movie—a partnership that’s honestly been a long time coming.

With a star-studded cast, a heartwarming storyline, and a setting that practically sparkles, this film is already making waves. Here’s what we know about this unusual but somehow perfect alliance between two of the most beloved brands in entertainment.

The Magic of Disney Meets the Heart of Hallmark

Disney and Hallmark have been go-tos for wholesome storytelling and family-friendly vibes for decades. Now, they’re blending their strengths to create a film that’s almost guaranteed to become a seasonal staple.

Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True will premiere during Hallmark Channel’s 17th annual *Countdown to Christmas* event in 2026. Millions will probably tune in for a dose of yuletide cheer.

The story centers on Lindsey, played by Lacey Chabert, and her extended family as they head to Walt Disney World for Christmas. Things get awkward fast when Lindsey finds out her hotel room is right next door to Philip—played by Travis Van Winkle—who just happens to be the disastrous first date she’s been trying to forget.

As fate (and maybe some Disney magic) would have it, their paths keep crossing amid the twinkling lights and fairy-tale backdrops of the park. Over time, the frost between them starts to thaw, and that awkward tension? It turns into something warmer.

A Cast That Feels Like a Holiday Reunion

Hallmark fans will spot the film’s leading lady, Lacey Chabert, who’s basically the queen of Christmas movies at this point. She’s joined by a lively ensemble: Richard Kind, Christy Carlson Romano, Bryce Dufee, Taegen Burns, and Asher Alexander.

There’s also a fun cameo—Patrick Renna, best known from *The Sandlot*, pops in for a moment that’ll probably get a few grins from longtime movie buffs.

Behind the scenes, Ryan Landels is writing and directing. He’s worked on Disney’s *Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration* and *Sugarplummed*, so he knows his way around whimsical, heartfelt stories.

Landels’ style is set to blend Hallmark’s signature sentimentality with Disney’s world-class spectacle. That mix should make for a film that’s visually enchanting and emotionally satisfying, even if it’s a tall order.

A Partnership Rooted in History

This is the first time the two companies have teamed up for a movie, but their relationship actually stretches back almost a century. Hallmark’s founder, J.C. Hall, had a Kansas City connection and friendship with Walt Disney himself.

That bond led to the very first greeting card featuring Mickey Mouse—a milestone that kicked off decades of collaboration in licensed products. Now, that spirit of partnership is getting a fresh start in a new medium.

Darren Abbott, Hallmark’s Chief Brand Officer, recently reflected on that history, saying this project is more than just a film—it’s a celebration of the values both brands hold dear: joy, nostalgia, and storytelling. Disney’s VP of Global Content, Sally Conner, chimed in too, pointing out how the holidays bring out the best of both companies’ creative magic.

Setting the film at Walt Disney World not only shows off an iconic destination but also captures the essence of what makes Disney storytelling so beloved. It’s hard not to feel a bit nostalgic just thinking about it.

Filming at the Happiest Place on Earth

Production will happen at Walt Disney World in Florida, offering viewers a real peek at the park’s breathtaking holiday transformation. Expect shots of Cinderella Castle draped in shimmering lights, festive parades winding down Main Street, and cozy resort scenes that might just make you want to book a trip.

Filming at a busy theme park isn’t exactly easy, but the payoff could be spectacular. The creative team will have access to Disney’s most iconic locations, from the Cinderella fountain—where Lindsey makes her wish—to glowing holiday displays that turn the park into a winter wonderland.

The result? Probably a cinematic postcard of Disney at its most enchanting, with the kind of emotional storytelling Hallmark is known for. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see that?

Why This Collaboration Makes Perfect Sense

A Disney-Hallmark partnership might seem a bit unexpected at first, but honestly, it’s a match made in Christmas heaven. Both brands cater to audiences who crave comfort, optimism, and a dash of nostalgia.

By joining forces, they’re reaching an even bigger audience—one that spans generations and platforms. Hallmark’s *Countdown to Christmas* is already one of the most-watched seasonal programming blocks, and Disney’s global reach? Well, it’s Disney.

For Disney, it’s a chance to showcase Walt Disney World to millions of potential visitors—it’s basically a feature-length commercial for the parks. For Hallmark, it’s a way to up its production values and storytelling by tapping into Disney’s creative resources.

And for fans? It’s a cozy, feel-good movie that blends the best of both worlds. That’s a win in my book.

Marketing Magic and Future Possibilities

Don’t be shocked if Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True turns out to be just the start. If the film does well—and with this team, it probably will—we might see more projects in the future.

Imagine seasonal specials set at Disneyland, or even a Hallmark-branded series filmed at Disney resorts around the world. The possibilities are kind of endless.

From a marketing perspective, this alliance is pure gold. Expect cross-promotional campaigns across Disney’s parks, retail stores, and streaming platforms, plus Hallmark’s network of greeting cards, ornaments, and holiday merch.

The synergy here feels undeniable, and the timing—right before the 2026 holiday season—couldn’t be better. It’s shaping up to be a holiday event you won’t want to miss.

Final Thoughts: A Holiday Dream Come True

I’ve spent thirty years covering entertainment, and honestly? This collaboration between Disney and Hallmark feels like a real milestone.

Even with all the streaming options and endless sequels, people still want stories that actually make them feel something. Love, family, a dash of magic—Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True has all of that, and probably a bit more than I expected.

So, when the snow starts falling and those holiday playlists sneak back into your life, maybe keep an eye on Hallmark Channel’s *Countdown to Christmas*.

This season, there’s a little extra sparkle—thanks to the happiest place on Earth. Wouldn’t want to miss it.