Lacey Chabert Leads 2026 Hallmark Christmas Movie at Disney World

Get ready, Hallmark fans — the queen of Christmas herself, Lacey Chabert, is sprinkling even more holiday magic across your screens in 2026! The beloved actress, who’s basically become the face of Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas lineup, is heading to none other than Walt Disney World for a brand-new festive film: Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True.

This collaboration between Hallmark Channel and Disney is set to blend Hallmark’s cozy storytelling with Disney’s signature wonder. It was announced during the Hallmark Christmas Experience: A Hometown Holiday special, and honestly, it’s a big deal — a full year’s advance reveal, which is rare for the network and says a lot about how much both brands are betting on this project.

The Ultimate Holiday Crossover: Hallmark Meets Disney

Hallmark has spent decades perfecting the art of feel-good Christmas movies. Now, they’re taking things up a notch by joining forces with the world’s most iconic destination for magic — Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The film is written and directed by Ryan Landels, who’s behind Hallmark’s 2024 hits Sugarplummed and Santa Tell Me. He’s bringing together the warmth of Hallmark’s Christmas charm and the dazzle of Disney’s holiday celebrations, which sounds like a winning combo.

Lacey Chabert stars as Lindsey, a woman whose dream of a perfect family Christmas at Disney World gets complicated. She discovers her hotel room is right next door to Philip (played by Travis Van Winkle), a guy she had a disastrous first date with not long ago.

As luck (and a dash of Disney magic) would have it, their paths keep crossing. What starts as an awkward reunion slowly thaws into something warmer. There’s a wish at the Cinderella Fountain, a little pixie dust, and before you know it, you’ve got a holiday romance that feels pure Hallmark.

Star-Packed Cast Brings the Magic to Life

Chabert and Van Winkle aren’t the only ones lighting up this yuletide adventure. The cast also includes Richard Kind, Taegen Burns, and Asher Alexander.

Fans of classic Disney Channel shows will spot Christy Carlson Romano in a role that nods to the film’s Disney roots. And for a bit of fun, Patrick Renna (yep, from The Sandlot) makes a special cameo — a little treat for longtime movie fans.

Each actor brings their own charm and humor, and the cast’s chemistry should make this story sparkle. There’s romance, family, and a sprinkle of magic, so Holiday Ever After is shaping up to be a must-watch for Christmas 2026.

A Historic Collaboration Between Two Icons

This partnership between Hallmark and Disney isn’t just business — it’s a nod to a long-shared legacy. The connection goes way back, rooted in a friendship between Hallmark’s founder, J.C. Hall, and Walt Disney himself.

Their collaboration produced the first-ever greeting card with Mickey Mouse, kicking off a relationship built on creativity and joy. Now, that partnership is moving beyond cards and into film, bringing together two brands that have shaped holiday happiness for generations.

Darren Abbott, Hallmark’s Chief Brand Officer, says both companies are devoted to spreading joy through storytelling. Sally Conner, Disney’s Vice President of Global Content, points out how this collaboration celebrates the daily magic at Disney parks, where guests create memories from all over the world.

From Greeting Cards to Silver Screens

It’s kind of poetic — brands that started with greeting cards are now bringing that same spirit to the big screen. And there’s more: with the film’s release, Hallmark and Disney are launching an exclusive collection of products inspired by the movie, including:

• Limited-edition greeting cards featuring scenes from the film
• Holiday ornaments and collectibles designed around Disney World landmarks
• Gift wrap and keepsakes blending Hallmark’s craftsmanship with Disney’s imagery

For fans who live and breathe Christmas, this collaboration offers an experience that goes well beyond the TV screen. It’s a chance to bring a little of the movie’s magic into your own home.

Filming the Magic at Walt Disney World

Shooting on location at Walt Disney World Resort is a dream scenario for any filmmaker, but it’s especially perfect for a holiday movie. The park’s decorations, sparkling lights, and joyful vibe create the ultimate backdrop for a story about love and family.

From snow-dusted Main Street to the glowing Cinderella Castle, every part of the park becomes a character — it just feels alive with Christmas wonder.

Director Ryan Landels is known for balancing humor, heart, and whimsy, and he’s bringing that vibe here. His earlier Hallmark films stood out for their emotional punch and visual style, and with Disney’s resources, the cinematography should be breathtaking.

Why This Movie Matters to Fans

In a world where holiday movies are a tradition, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True is the next step for the genre. It’s not just another Christmas romance — it’s about the connections that bind us, the memories we hold onto, and the hope that wishes can come true.

For longtime Lacey Chabert fans, it’s another reminder of why she’s Hallmark’s leading lady. Her warmth, relatability, and blend of humor and sincerity make her a perfect fit for this kind of story.

And let’s be real — who hasn’t dreamed of celebrating Christmas at Disney World? The film taps into that fantasy, offering a front-row seat to the parks’ magic during the most wonderful time of the year.

Whether you’re a Hallmark devotee, a Disney fan, or just someone who loves a good holiday romance, this movie looks set to deliver everything you could wish for — and maybe a little more.

Countdown to Christmas 2026: Mark Your Calendars

When Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True premieres during Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas 2026, it’s going to be a milestone for the network and its fans. This isn’t just another holiday release—let’s be real, it feels like the start of something bigger for both Hallmark and Disney.

There’ll be dazzling visuals, heartfelt performances, and a whole lot of holiday spirit packed into one movie. I mean, who doesn’t want a little extra magic at Christmastime?

So, maybe grab your cocoa, hang up your stockings, and start thinking about that wish at Cinderella Fountain. Hallmark and Disney together? That’s a combo that could make even the wildest holiday dreams seem possible.

Lacey Chabert’s back, and the cast is stacked with fan favorites. If you ask me, this movie’s likely to steal the show in next year’s holiday lineup.