Hi Ruth,
Thank you for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. I think I can help you to understand what is going on in the evenings at Magic Kingdom!
My guess is that you are planning to visit either during the season of
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Both of these are seasonal, fun events that include special parades, entertainment, and so much more! At Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party you can trick-or-treat around Magic Kingdom. At Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, you can meet characters decked out for the winter holidays. I have attended both of these parties, and they really add to the holiday spirit!
On nights when there is a party, yes, Magic Kingdom will close early. Then, only those with tickets to the party will be able to be in Magic Kingdom. The parties are separately ticketed so there is a cost associated with going. On those party nights, only party-goers will be in Magic Kingdom to see fireworks.
I have good news for you, Ruth! Even though I heartily recommend both parties, I know that not everyone will want to attend. The good news is that these parties are not every night! By looking at the links I provided for the parties, you can find the dates of the parties. You can also look at the
Walt Disney World theme park hours to see which nights the Magic Kingdom closes earlier for a party. On the other nights, Magic Kingdom will be open for day guests later, and on those nights you can see fireworks from within Magic Kingdom!
I hope that this information is helpful for you, Ruth! Please let us know if you have any further questions.