Yes, I know it’s still November. Yes, I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet...but at Walt Disney World, Christmas is already in full swing! As much as I love fall, I am one of those crazy people who’s ready to start listening to Christmas music as soon as the Halloween decorations come down, and Disney is no different! They get the festivities going from the beginning of November through the end of December with beautiful decorations, Christmas parties, an amazing parade and fireworks show, and even snow! (You read that right. SNOW in Florida, and it is one of the most magical things ever!)
If you’re ready to get into the holiday spirit, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party is the place to be, and there are a few things you should know before you go.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place on select nights November through December in the Magic Kingdom from 7 pm to midnight. It is a special ticketed event, which means you will have to purchase a ticket for it in addition to any theme park tickets you have. If you only use a party ticket (not a park ticket), you can get into the Magic Kingdom as early as 4 pm.
Since there are a limited number of tickets sold, there is often fewer crowds and shorter wait times for rides. Rides aren’t the only attraction, though. There are plenty of special things that you can only find at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! One of these things is complimentary snacks. Cookies, hot chocolate, eggnog, and shaved ice can be found at different locations all throughout the park. Plus, you can eat as much as you care to enjoy! Healthier alternatives like apple slices are also available--just ask!
Another must see at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. You’ll see favorite Disney character like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, princesses, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, and even Santa himself! The parade starts in Frontierland and makes its way down Main Street, U.S.A. And speaking of Main Street, that is the absolute best place to watch the parade. It may be a little more crowded than other viewing spots, but you can’t beat the ambiance with Cinderella’s Castle in the background and snow falling all around you. The parade runs twice during the Christmas party, and the later one is much less crowded since a lot of people don’t stick around that late. If you plan to stay the whole time, wait for the second parade.
There are some great holiday stage shows that take place during the Christmas party. Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration in front of the castle and A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas in Tomorrowland take place multiple times throughout the night. Plus, see all your favorite Frozen friends and watch Elsa light up Cinderella’s Castle in A Frozen Holiday Wish.
You can also find some hard to find characters at exclusive party meet and greets. Some of the most popular are The Seven Dwarfs, Jack Skellington dressed as Sandy Claws, princesses with their princes, and Santa. The lines for these special characters can get extremely long, so if you plan to see them, it’s a good idea to get in line to see them before the party even starts.
One of my favorite things about Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is the extravagant fireworks spectacular Holiday Wishes. These are some of the most amazing fireworks ever! The best place to watch is right down the middle of Main Street U.S.A. near Casey’s Corner and the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. Too close to or too far from the castle and you won’t be able to see all of the fireworks. The soundtrack that is played along with the fireworks has some wonderful Christmas songs that pair beautifully with the 360-degree fireworks display. It really gets you into the “Spirit of the Season.”
While the higher ticket prices may keep some from attending, if you can swing it, it is something I would recommend doing it at least once. The sights, sounds, and even smells help to create memories that you and your family will never forget.
There is nothing like spending an evening celebrating Christmas in the most magical place on earth!
Happy Travels!
My love for Disney started as young child and has grown immensely over the years as I have taken trips to Walt Disney World with my family. One of the most magical trips I ever experienced was when my husband and I took our son (who was two at the time) to Walt Disney World for his first visit. His little face beamed with joy, his eyes lit up with excitement, and a huge smile spread across his face from ear to ear when he saw Mickey Mouse for the very first time. It was a moment I'll never forget. I would love to help you create memories that will last a lifetime as well by planning a dream vacation for you!