Hi there, Peter! Welcome to planDisney! Late August is a great time to visit the parks. The summer rush starts to fade a bit in those last few weeks as kids start heading back to school, and while it will still be hot, that's also an excuse for a Mickey ice cream bar if you ask me!
I'm so glad you are planning to catch both
Fantasmic! and the
Main Street Electrical Parade during your visit! It truly feels like the magic is back in full swing with these two special performances lighting up those Disney nights. It looks like the
Entertainment Schedule is made available about six weeks out, so I would expect to see timings for late August around mid-July. While this is always subject to change, both shows have had two performances since their return. Initially, the
Disneyland Forever fireworks were weekends-only, but those too have returned to nightly performances! While I do not have a crystal ball, I would think that your dates in August would still be within the summer entertainment schedule. Never a guarantee, but I will send a little pixie-dusted wish over with Tinker Bell that this is the case for you!
I recently was able to catch the second viewing of the Main Street Electrical Parade, and let me tell you it did not disappoint! The second parade will start at the top of Main Street, U.S.A., and make its way towards Sleeping Beauty Castle, while the earlier performance follows the route in reverse. I do recommend grabbing a spot on the curb about an hour ahead of time. My fellow panelist Carrie and I staked out a spot right in front of the Disneyland Railroad so that we could also be the first to bounce out of the park after the parade went by. We had to be home before the clock struck midnight! While you are waiting, be on the lookout for
Disney PhotoPass photographers walking the route with some fun props, and you might even catch Mickey himself greeting Guests! I'm sure I don't have to mention this to you, but a good parade wait should also be accompanied by a snack. Disneyland popcorn and a classic churro are best in this scenario!
Peter, I hope this helps in your planning! If you have any more questions, be sure to reach back out to us. We are always here for you at
planDisney!
Magic awaits!
Tara