Disney has released its Christmas advert for 2026, a short film titled The Invisible Horse that follows a boy who rediscovers the magic of the season. The festive film, directed by Dougal Wilson, aims to remind viewers that no one is too old for Christmas.
A Boy Who Outgrew Christmas
The story centres on Jack, a boy who believes he has outgrown the holiday. He skips decorating the tree with his family, disappointing his younger sister, and heads outside in a western-style hat. As he sulks past an old family photo from Disneyland and his sister's dolls, including a Toy Story Woody and a Princess Jasmine doll, a mysterious force begins making footprints in the snowy grass and blows off his hat.
Jack insists to his friends that he felt an invisible force, but they laugh at him. He later tries to summon the entity with a lasso while dressed as Woody, only to be dragged across the ground into a muddy puddle. While watching television with his family, he sees Elsa riding the mythical water spirit Nokk in Frozen II, leading him to realise what the spirit could be.
A Reindeer Reveal
Jack then attempts to call the creature back, standing ready with a saddle and extending an arm to stroke it. The boy and the creature gallop across a white landscape, past his school friends, who are shocked to see he was telling the truth. As Jack returns home, the creature is revealed to be a reindeer, forming its shape from snowflakes. His sister strokes the reindeer, and more animals appear in the background.
Before leaving, the reindeer tugs on Woody's string, which says, 'You're my favourite deputy.' Its work complete, the reindeer soars into the sky, and Jack puts on a Santa hat to reunite with his family, now ready to celebrate.
Supporting Make-A-Wish
The advert is connected to Disney's latest campaign. 'Disney has long been part of the traditions, memories, and moments that make the holiday season so special for families around the world,' said Asad Ayaz, Chief Marketing and Brand Officer at The Walt Disney Company. 'This season, we're bringing the best of Disney together to give families more ways to make the holidays magic: a trip they'll talk about for years, a new favourite to watch together, the perfect gift under the tree and, for the children and families who need it most, a wish come true.'
Throughout the festive season, Disney will support the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes for children with critical illnesses. The film aims to raise awareness of and funds for the charity while bringing Christmas magic across the UK and Ireland through its wish-granting programme at Disneyland Paris. A Disney Holiday Short: The Invisible Horse is now available on Disney+ and online.
