Iam Tongi is helping Disney open the holiday season with a burst of island spirit. Tongi performs “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” during the 2025 broadcast of “The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular.” The special airs Dec. 1 on ABC. Disney filmed his segment at Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii. The musician returned to his roots for the performance, which became one of the most anticipated moments of the entire holiday special.
Disney Marks a Milestone Year
The holiday program enters its 10th year with a lineup that spans multiple parks and resorts. According to Disney Parks Blog, crews recorded performances across Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California, and Aulani in Hawaii. The network will air the special at 8 p.m. EST and PST, and Disney says viewers can stream the episode the next day on Disney Plus, Hulu, and the official Disney YouTube channel.
ABC lists Derek Hough as the host, with actor Ginnifer Goodwin serving as narrator. The performers include Gwen Stefani, Bebe Rexha, Aloe Blacc, Good Charlotte, Coco Jones, Mariah the Scientist, and Nicole Scherzinger. ABC reports that each act filmed its segment at a different Disney location. The network says the format helps the special highlight varied holiday settings and performances.
The show is not recorded live. Disney Tourist Blog, which covered filming at Magic Kingdom, reports that crews shot multiple scenes over several days. The blog notes that the special has become a tradition for many viewers who enjoy seeing Disney parks decorated for the holidays, even if they cannot travel in person.
Tongi’s Cultural Moment
Tongi rose to national attention after winning Season 21 of “American Idol,” and he has remained closely connected to Hawaiian culture throughout his career. Disney selected him to perform a song that carries emotional meaning for many Hawaii residents. “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” first appeared in the animated film “Lilo and Stitch” and continues to represent themes of family, community, and Hawaiian pride.
KITV in Honolulu reported that Tongi filmed his performance at Aulani with support from local musicians, including members of the Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus. The station said the collaboration gave the holiday special a uniquely local touch and allowed young performers from Hawaii to participate in a major national broadcast.
Tongi’s segment is expected to stand out in a show filled with pop and holiday standards. His performance ties the special to its Hawaiian location while offering viewers a reminder that holiday celebrations vary across cultures. Disney often blends nostalgia with modern talent, and Tongi’s presence broadens that tradition by bringing a fresh voice rooted in place and heritage.
“The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular” remains one of the network’s most-watched seasonal events. With Tongi bringing Hawaiian warmth to the lineup, Disney adds a performance that reflects both cultural pride and holiday joy. His song choice reminds viewers that the season is not only about snowfall and winter lights. It can also be about sunshine, ocean breezes, and the shared feeling of home.
