Iconic Gingerbread house will not return to the Grand Floridian for 2025.

If the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa holds a special place in your heart, then you're in for a blend of excitement and disappointment. Disney is planning changes to the lobby, promising guests an even more magical experience.

Since its grand opening in 1988, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been the epitome of charming, its Victorian style, reminiscent of Florida's opulent seaside hotels from the golden age of travel. The current renovation of the resort lobby marks the culmination of the resort’s multi-year refurbishment, featuring enhanced guest rooms, and refreshed dining experiences.  

Disney has released details of their planned refurbishment of the lobby area including updates to the carpet, new furniture, and the addition of the Grand Floridian Lobby Bar. Set against the backdrop of the lobby’s iconic birdcage design, the Lobby Bar will feature intricate woodwork, stained glass, and brass accents. The colorful birds nestled within the stained glass and murals will surely steal your hearts as you sip your favorite beverage.

The entire lobby, staircase, and front desk will soon be updated with botanical accents, aiming for an airy ambiance reminiscent of a serene garden, with new carpeting inspired by Victorian designs and delicate florals.

However, there is a downside.

While the renovations unfold, the beloved Grand Floridian gingerbread house will take a hiatus this Christmas season. For over 25 years, this massive, edible display and its seasonal treat offerings have delighted us, drawing crowds in awe of its craftsmanship. It's had been a centerpiece of the resort's holiday decorations and includes hundreds of pounds of gingerbread, honey, chocolate, and other ingredients. It also incorporates a snack stand, offering various gingerbread treats for purchase.  The gingerbread house, considered to be the world's largest, takes up a lot of room in the lobby. We do worry, with the addition of the Lobby Bar, there may no longer be room for it. Crossing our fingers that it returns.

But the good news? The rest of the sparkling Christmas decore will remain, including with the towering Christmas tree. Disney has also shared that the other gingerbread displays around the resort will be returning in 2025.

We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Are you excited about the new changes, or will you miss the traditional elements? Feel free to share your insights with us in the comments below. 🥳

Stay tuned for more practically perfect tips and Disney shenanigans, your goto source for balanced Disney planning. As always, we're here to simplify your dreams with a sprinkle of pixie dust. ✨

Pixie Dust Hugs,

Bren, Lyn, and Kim