Hi there Susan, and welcome back to planDisney!
It's been a while
since your last question, and boy have things changed at Walt Disney World Resort! One thing that hasn't changed however, is the popularity of the Mickey Mouse balloon as it billows and bobs in the air for all to enjoy as you proudly hang onto your floaty friend. Currently, I've spotted special limited-edition balloons in celebration of
Disney100 - The Walt Disney Company's 100-Year Anniversary!
You'll be happy to know that on each of my most recent
Magic Kingdom Park visits, I have always found them right in the middle of Main Street, U.S.A. and often located adjacent to
Uptown Jewelers each time that I've passed by this past month. They have been known to roam however, so it's always worth asking one of the
Disney PhotoPass Cast Members dressed in green whether they've spotted them recently, as they tend to have the most consistent eye on the happenings on the street! If you're coming early enough to Rope Drop, or right as
Magic Kingdom Park hours begin for
Early Entry, you may find that the balloons may take some time to come out after the early morning rush. In fact, in my most recent experience I did not see any balloons until later in the morning and your experience may be different on your next visit! (I asked a Cast Member who let me know that generally the balloon vendor Cast Members may be out and about after 10:00 a.m. EST but as with any offerings, this is subject to availability and may change without prior notice.)
Did you know that before they head out,
hundreds of balloons fill a backstage room ready and bouncing with anticipation for the Cast Members to bring them out to guests in bundles of over 60 balloons! In case you miss your opportunity to purchase the balloon that you're in search of for any reason, you still may have a chance at
Disney's Hollywood Studios or even at
Disney Springs adjacent to the Uniqlo store!
I hope to see you back here at planDisney again
if you ever have any more questions for me Susan, and be sure to
keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for the latest and greatest updates ahead of your next Disney adventure.
Wishing you all the best on your balloon quest!
Prince