Pluto at Magic Kingdom
  • On Jul 20, 2025
    Ella from NH Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    As an annual pass holder, there has been some mixed answers on wether or not you can have a reservation for another Disney park and then park hop after 2pm to the Magic Kingdom to see the parade, or do you absolutely need a MK park reservation?

    Hi Ella!

    Welcome to planDisney! I’m happy to clarify the new park reservation rules for Annual Passholders!

    When it comes to park hopping, nothing has changed as far as park reservations go. You’ll want to make your park reservation for the first park you plan to visit. Then, after you scan into that park, you’ll be free to hop to any other park at any time, including Magic Kingdom, pending park capacity. 

    If I had to guess, the debut of the Disney Starlight parade will draw lots of crowds! It looks incredible! I recommend heading over to Magic Kingdom early enough to ensure entry into the park and snag a spot to watch the parade. The parade is currently scheduled for 9 PM and 11 PM each night, but you can find the showtime(s) for your specific park day on the Hours & Events Calendar.

    What has changed with the Annual Passholder park reservations is the fact that you used to be able to enter Magic Kingdom after 2 PM on weekdays without a reservation. Now, if you plan to start your park day after 2 PM, you will need a park reservation for Magic Kingdom, no matter what. However, you will not need a park reservation if you’ll be starting your park day after 2 PM if you’re visiting Epcot, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom. 

    I hope that all makes sense! Let us know if you have any other questions. We’ll see you real soon!

    Jenn J. 

thumbnail image for Jenn

Meet the Panelist: Jenn, Ohio

Hello from Ohio! I’m Jenn–a physical therapist, wife, and mom of 3 boys…who look just like Huey, Dewey, and Louie if you squint! I grew up visiting “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” and now I consider Walt Disney World my home away from home. I have a healthy mix of Joy and Nostalgia when I’m at the Disney Parks, and I’m so excited to help you make lifelong memories on your next Disney vacation. Learn More About Jenn

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for Disney Thrills | planDisney Podcast - Season 2 Episode 5

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.