Coming off yet another Grammy© nomination this week, Bart Milliard, lead singer of the Contemporary Christian group MercyMe, also made his debut as a celebrity narrator at this year’s Candlelight Processional, part of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays.
As the lead singer of one of the most beloved Contemporary Christian groups of all time, MercyMe, Millard’s vocals have been heard on millions of records including the biggest selling Christian song of all time – “I Can Only Imagine.” Millard also scored big this year with a movie of his life, called – of course – “I Can Only Imagine.”
Millard, who has spent part of his life in Central Florida, is a huge fan of Walt Disney World and Epcot, but had never visited during the holidays. We caught up with him before a performance and asked him about his experience this year as narrator, exciting times for MercyMe and his personal family holiday traditions.
Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Holiday traditions from around the world come to life at Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, featuring the new Holiday Cookie Stroll and new food and beverage at Holiday Kitchens. Through Dec. 30, Epcot brims with holiday magic, as guests will be able to sample international seasonal delicacies, delight in live entertainment, and enjoy festive decor.
Guests discover a festival like no other, featuring the joyous holiday traditions of our 11 World Showcase nations. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays surrounds you in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season, as celebrated by cultures near and far.
Guests also savor some of the most delectable holiday dishes from across the globe at 13 specialty kitchens set around World Showcase. New items this year include black forest roulade with cherry whipped cream at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen in the Germany pavilion and sofrito-marinated beef with sweet plantains and olives at the Feast of the Three Kings Holiday Kitchen.
At the Candlelight Processional, the story of Christmas is powerfully told by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a full choir and a 50-piece orchestra in a performance that inspires joy and holiday spirit. New narrators this year include the voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho and Joey Fatone. Returning favorites include Pat Sajak, Cal Ripken Jr. and voice of Ariel, Jodi Benson.
Guests can add more magic to their holiday celebrations with a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner followed by reserved seating at a performance of the Candlelight Processional. Dining options include some of the tastiest restaurants in Epcot and the adjacent Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. Limited dates for the Candlelight Dining Packages are still available; please visit www.Epcotholidays.com for more information or call (407) WDW-DINE.
For more information about the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays or all holiday events at Walt Disney World Resort, check out http://www.disneyworld.com/holidays.
