The Wheres, Whats and Hows Of A Disney Parade

Everybody loves a parade! Especially a Disney parade. And there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy one at Walt Disney World.

Where And When To Find A Parade

Disney has a variety of entertainment choices in all of the parks but a parade at Magic Kingdom is the most popular (and reliable.) Currently, the two most popular Magic Kingdom parades are:

Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party (11am, 12:30pm, 5:45pm)

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade (3pm)

But there are always surprises and changes at Walt Disney World. To be certain of Disney parade times, check the park map and entertainment guide or the entertainment section of the My Disney Experience App on your smart phone.

How To Watch A Parade

With your eyes, right? But where is the best spot? And when should you stake it out?

The parade route in Magic Kingdom starts between Adventureland and Frontierland and ends at the start of Main Street.

But how to get a good viewing spot?

I know it sounds cliche, but there really isn’t a bad viewing area along the route. There are some better than others, however. I prefer around a bend instead of a straightaway. Others prefer to catch it at the beginning or the very end.

1. Stake it out early. Anywhere along the curb of the Disney streets will be a great view. But I’m here to warn you. Being there first doesn’t necessarily mean someone won’t step in front of you or try to squeeze you out at the last minute. It isn’t personal. Their excitement just takes over and they forget they’re not the only one trying to get a glimpse of Elsa and Anna. If you decide to stake it out early, make sure you stock up on patience.
2. Show up just before it starts. I know, I know. There is conflicting advice on this tip. But we have stumbled upon a Disney parade already in progress and had great views – without having to step on the toes of those waiting before us. Depending on the time of year, guests will not always crowd the entire parade route. You can usually find a great viewing spot along a thinner line of guests. The characters and floats are large, elevated and easy to see. Believe it or not, I’ve been able to get great pictures just lifting my camera or phone above the heads of the people in front of me.
3. Use your FastPass option.  If you want a great spot AND don’t want to have to stake it out an hour in advance, utilize a FastPass for some prime viewing real estate. Just check your My Disney Experience App for details.

Make Friends With A Cast Member

Disney Cast Members are there to help. It goes without saying that you should follow the guidance of the cast members working to keep you and the performers safe DURING the parade. But before the parade starts? You need to do your homework!

Find a friendly Cast Member, earlier in the day. Ask questions. Find out how long they’ve worked at Disney. Ask them about their favorite attractions. Find out where their number one Disney parade viewing spot is. We find we get great information when we ask Disney Cast Members about any of their favorites!