Mickey dressed in holiday clothes in front of a Christmas tree.
  • On Aug 18, 2024
    Ambreen from NY Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    If we want to be in Magic Kingdom on 12/25 for the fireworks and parade, should we enter early and stay the whole day or is it realistic to come later and be let in

    Hi Ambreen!

    Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your question!

    Visiting Magic Kingdom Park on Christmas Day is truly a “holly jolly” experience, but it’s also one of the year's busiest days at Walt Disney World. With a bit of planning and holiday cheer, you can make the most of your day! Here are some tips to help make your Christmas Day visit as merry and bright as possible:

    • Christmas Day at Magic Kingdom is as popular as figgy pudding, and the park often reaches capacity early in the day. Arriving early gives you the best chance to enjoy popular attractions and get a head start on the festivities. Prioritize the attractions that typically have the longest waits, such as Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, or Space Mountain

    • So you'd like to sleep in a bit and arrive a little later? If the park reaches capacity early, don’t lose your Christmas spirit! It typically opens back up in the early afternoon hours, just in time for some “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Then, the crowds usually return in the evening, so plan your day accordingly.

    • To make your holiday extra merry and bright, consider purchasing a Lightning Lane Multi Pass. It’s a great way to secure access for popular attractions and maximize your time. For attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, consider purchasing a Lightning Lane Single Pass.

    • Don’t miss Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade and Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. Check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes, because these festive shows will leave you singing, “Joy to the World!”

    • Be sure to make Advance Dining Reservations, as table-service restaurants are as popular as Santa on Christmas Eve. If you don’t have reservations, don’t worry - use Mobile Order to snag some yuletide treats from quick-service locations. Place your Mobile Order early in the day to secure your preferred time. 

    • If the hustle and bustle start to feel like “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” take a break in quieter areas like Liberty Square or Tom Sawyer Island. A little peace and joy can go a long way! Keep hydrated and enjoy some holiday snacks throughout the day to keep your spirits up. Gingerbread Mickey cookies, anyone?

    • If you want to watch Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, find a spot early. Some attractions might have shorter waits as people gather for the fireworks - perfect for one last “Jingle Bell Rock” ride before the day ends.

    Magic Kingdom on Christmas Day can be as busy as Santa’s workshop, so go in with a merry heart and focus on enjoying the holiday magic rather than trying to do it all. Ho-Ho-Hold on to your patience, take it all in, and let it fill your heart with cheer!

    Wishing you a magical and Merry Christmas at Walt Disney World - may your day be filled with memorable moments, holiday treats, and enough pixie dust to last all year!

    Diane W. 

thumbnail image for Diane

Meet the Panelist: Diane, Alabama

"Dream It! Plan It! Do It!" – that's my motto! If you've always dreamed of a magical visit to Walt Disney World Resort, or sailing away with Captain Mickey on a Disney Cruise, I'd love to help you plan and make the most of your vacation. My favorite getaway is a Land and Sea adventure - from Cinderella Castle to sand castles! Learn More About Diane

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