By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
The holidays are here, bringing a magical mix of festive cheer and family traditions. For those moments when you’re short on time but still craving a touch of holiday spirit, Disney+ offers an unforgettable assortment of festive shorts. These eight bite-sized delights are perfect for a cozy evening—whether you’re trimming the tree, sipping hot cocoa, or simply soaking in the season.
Santa’s Workshop (1932)
This vintage gem from Walt Disney Animation Studios is a delightful throwback to the golden age of hand-drawn animation. Watch as Santa’s industrious elves craft toys with assembly-line precision… and a touch of chaos. Nostalgic and endlessly charming, Santa’s Workshop is the perfect choice to kick off your holiday viewing. Fun fact: Walt Disney himself voices Santa’s second helper!
Pluto’s Christmas Tree (1952)
In this classic tale of yuletide mayhem, Mickey’s (voiced by James Macdonald) well-meaning dog Pluto (voiced by Disney Legend Pinto Colvig) discovers that Chip (voiced by Norma Swank) and Dale (voiced by Dessie Flynn) have moved into the Christmas tree—and they’re not exactly paying rent. What follows is a hilariously chaotic battle that’ll leave you rooting for the mischievous chipmunks—and maybe questioning Pluto’s holiday spirit.
Prep & Landing (2009)
Move over, Rudolph—there’s a new hero in Santa’s sleigh. This clever short introduces us to an elite team of elves who prep rooftops for the big man’s arrival. Packed with gadgetry, humor, and just the right amount of holiday heart, it’s a modern classic that proves even Santa’s helpers need a bit of tech support.
Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011)
What happens when a prehistoric mammoth accidentally lands on Santa’s naughty list? A snowballing adventure, of course! With its quirky humor and lovable characters, this Ice Age holiday short offers a fun, wintry escape. Plus, who can resist Scrat (voiced by Chris Wedge) chasing his next acorn?
Once Upon a Snowman (2020)
What was Olaf (voiced by Disney Legend Josh Gad) up to before his fateful meeting with Anna and Kristoff (voiced by Disney Legends Kristen Bell and Jonathan Groff, respectively)? This charming short rewinds to the moment Elsa (voiced by Disney Legend Idina Menzel) unknowingly brings him to life during her North Mountain anthem. Packed with Easter eggs and callbacks to Walt Disney Animation Studios’ beloved Frozen, it even answers the question of why this summer-loving snowman adores the sun—without realizing the melt risk!
Mickey Saves Christmas (2022)
In this stop-motion holiday delight, Mickey (voiced by Bret Iwan) and friends set out to save the season after Pluto (voiced by Disney Legend Bill Farmer) accidentally causes Santa (voiced by Brock Powell) to lose his presents. Their journey to the North Pole is filled with mishaps, heartfelt moments, and a reminder of what truly makes the holidays special.
An Almost Christmas Story (2024)
Inspired by the real-life story of an owl rescued from the Rockefeller Plaza Christmas tree in 2020, this heartfelt tale follows Moon (voiced by Cary Christopher), a tiny owl curious about shiny things. After finding himself far from home inside a pine tree bound for New York City, Moon befriends Luna (voiced by Estella Madrigal), a girl also searching for her place in the world. Together, they learn that the true meaning of Christmas lies in unexpected friendships and finding their way back to what matters most.
Mickey and the Very Many Christmases (2024)
Ever wish Christmas lasted all year? Mickey (voiced by Bret Iwan) does, and his wish comes true in this whimsical new special. But as the holiday repeats day after day, Mickey learns there’s more to the season than endless festivities. It’s a dazzling, globe-trotting celebration with a heartfelt lesson at its core.