Hallmark and Disney Unite for Magical 2026 Christmas Movie
Get ready for a holiday television event that’s honestly hard to believe is even happening. Hallmark Channel and Disney are teaming up for a Christmas crossover, and the buzz is already wild.
This new film, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True, was announced during Hallmark’s annual Christmas special. It’s a huge deal for both companies—and let’s be real, for anyone who’s ever wished these two would join forces.
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Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle are leading the cast. Filming is already underway at Walt Disney World, so you can bet this will be one of the most talked-about holiday releases of 2026.
Table of Contents
The Magic of Two Worlds Colliding
Hallmark and Disney actually go way back. Their connection started with a friendship between Hallmark founder J.C. Hall and Walt Disney himself.
That early partnership gave us the first Mickey Mouse greeting card. Now, it’s evolved into a movie that’s all about storytelling, family, and holiday joy.
Hallmark’s Chief Brand Officer, Darren Abbott, says this movie is the best of both brands—heart and a little escapism. Disney’s VP of Global Content, Sally Conner, agrees, pointing out that both companies put storytelling first, and what better time to do that than the holidays?
Filming Where Dreams Come True
Production for Holiday Ever After is happening at Walt Disney World and Hollywood Studios in Orlando. If you’re heading to the parks in the next few months, you might just spot the cast filming.
The movie will show off Disney’s most iconic spots—Cinderella Castle, Main Street U.S.A.—all dressed up for Christmas. Mixing Hallmark’s cozy vibe with Disney’s larger-than-life magic? That’s going to be a treat for the eyes.
The Story: A Christmas Wish with a Twist
Lindsey (played by Lacey Chabert) heads to Walt Disney World with her big family for Christmas. But, of course, her hotel room ends up right next to Philip’s (Travis Van Winkle)—the guy from her recent, truly awkward first date.
They keep running into each other all over the park, which leads to plenty of funny and sweet moments. Add in a little Disney magic—maybe a wish at Cinderella Fountain—and suddenly, things start to change between them.
What starts as icy tension slowly melts into something a lot warmer, and the park’s holiday lights aren’t the only thing sparkling.
Classic Hallmark Meets Disney Magic
This movie has all the Hallmark favorites—unexpected romance, family chaos, and a dash of holiday luck. But with Disney World as the backdrop, it gets a whole new level of enchantment.
Just picture those classic Hallmark moments: fireworks over Cinderella Castle, or a heartfelt talk while snow falls on Main Street. It’s nostalgia and something fresh all at once, and honestly, that’s pretty exciting.
The Star Power: Lacey Chabert and Travis Van Winkle
Lacey Chabert is basically Hallmark royalty at this point. She’s starred in over 40 movies—people even call her the Queen of Christmas.
From the Wedding Veil trilogy to Crossword Mysteries, she’s nailed the role of the relatable, big-hearted heroine. Her latest, She’s Making a List, just added to her holiday legacy.
Travis Van Winkle brings something different. He’s known for shows like FUBAR, You, and The Last Ship, but he’s got Hallmark experience too.
He’s been in Christmas Getaway and ’Tis the Season to Be Merry. This is his first time teaming up with Chabert, and fans are definitely curious to see how they click on screen—especially with Disney World as their backdrop.
Familiar Faces and Fun Cameos
The cast list doesn’t stop with the leads. Patrick Renna from The Sandlot pops in for a cameo, and you’ll also see Bryce Durfee, Taegen Burns, and Asher Alexander.
Disney fans will recognize Christy Carlson Romano and Richard Kind. Romano, who was Kim Possible and starred in Even Stevens, is making a bit of a Disney homecoming here.
A Marketing Dream Come True
Hallmark and Disney aren’t just making a movie—they’re rolling out a whole holiday experience. Expect themed greeting cards, ornaments, gift wrap, and all sorts of collectibles inspired by the film.
With Hallmark’s knack for keepsakes and Disney’s merchandising magic, this stuff is going to fly off shelves in 2026. There might even be park-exclusive items tied to the movie’s release, and that’s going to make collectors go wild.
When and Where to Watch
No official premiere date yet, but Holiday Ever After will be part of Hallmark Channel’s Countdown to Christmas 2026. Some say it might kick off the season in October, others think it’ll be a big Thanksgiving or December event.
Either way, it’s definitely going to be one of Hallmark’s biggest holiday movies that year.
Why This Collaboration Matters
This isn’t just a business move. It’s a real chance to see two legendary brands mix their storytelling strengths and make something genuinely special.
Hallmark brings the feels and family focus, while Disney adds the magic and world-building. Together, they’re putting together a holiday movie that celebrates togetherness, nostalgia, and maybe even the idea that wishes come true.
The Future of Holiday Entertainment
If Holiday Ever After takes off—and honestly, it looks like it will—we could see more crossovers like this. Imagine a whole series of Hallmark-Disney movies in different parks, or even a Hallmark-style romance series on Disney+.
Who knows? The possibilities are pretty endless, and fans are already dreaming up what comes next.
Final Thoughts: A Wish Granted for Christmas Movie Fans
With a cast packed with familiar faces and a setting that feels straight out of a dream, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True is shaping up to be a holiday movie worth the hype. The Hallmark and Disney collaboration brings together romance, laughter, family, and just enough magic to make you believe—maybe this time, the season really will surprise us.
Whether you’re a Hallmark regular, a Disney enthusiast, or just someone who can’t resist a holiday love story, this one’s got a little something for everyone. Mark your calendars, grab your cocoa, and settle in—because honestly, who could have predicted a Christmas crossover like this?
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