One of the things that makes Walt Disney World so special is all the extras – no-one comes just for the rides, its the whole experience and the shows and parades are a big part of that. You can find out the times via the My Disney Experience app, or pick up a times guide to see what’s showing the day you’re there, or check out the Magic Kingdom calendars on the Official Disney World website before you go so you can plan which days to visit which parks. A few to look out for are:
Let the Magic Begin and rope drop – the park itself and a number of the shops on Main Street open earlier than the rest of the park, usually around an hour before official park opening. 5 minutes before the official park opening time for that day, there is an ‘opening show’ which performs in front of the castle – after this, the ropes drop for the other lands of the park and everyone floods in. (Note, if you have visited in the past, this replaced the opening show that used to perform in front of Main Street Station.)
Disney’s Festival of Fantasy Parade – this is the main daytime parade and is a ‘tribute to the tales of Fantasyland’.
Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire – a show at the front of the castle, performed several times a day, including lots of family favourites in this ‘musical extravaganza’.
Move it! Shake it! Celebrate it! Street Party – another day time parade that is a little more interactive, encouraging you to get up and dance along.
Happily Ever After – the night time fireworks and projection show. Absolutely not to be missed. (And replaced Wishes, for those that have been in previous years).