Hi Trevor!
Thanks for bringing this question to planDisney! I won’t lie…I’m a little jealous that you get to experience
After Hours at Magic Kingdom! I’ve heard incredible things about that event, and I can’t wait to go during one of our trips! I know you’ll have the best night.
One amazing perk that comes along with an After Hours ticket for Magic Kingdom is that you’ll actually be able to enter the park as early as 7 PM (even though the official event doesn’t start until 10 PM). As of now, the S
tarlight parade will make its way through the park beginning at 7:45 PM on January 12, 2026. Of course, that time is subject to change, so I’d
check the showtimes again on your park day to make sure you have the correct time.
Guests often start finding their spot for the Starlight parade well in advance, with Main Street U.S.A. and the hub area by Cinderella Castle being the most popular spots. With that being said, upon entering the park, you may be met with lots of people who have already snagged their spot.
If you happen to see a spot along the parade route when you enter, go ahead and grab it! If things are looking a little too busy there, I’d recommend making your way back to Liberty Square or Frontierland.
The parade route for the Starlight parade is opposite the daytime parade. The parade will actually start at the front of the park near
Harmony Barber Shop and end in Frontierland by
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. So, making your way back to Liberty Square or Frontierland will also buy you some time to get settled before the parade reaches your spot.
I hope that helps! If you have any other questions as you continue to plan, come back and visit us! We’ll see you real soon!
Jenn J.