Hi Carol!
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! First and foremost, thank you to all members of your party for their service. I am honored to help you plan unforgettable memories.
The Magic Kingdom
Flag Retreat takes place at town square daily only at 5:00 p.m., and it is a beautiful patriotic ceremony that pays special tribute to all veterans for their service. A Guest veteran is invited to participate, and this person is chosen on the day of the retreat. For those in your party who would like to take part in this event, here are a couple of tips:
- Arrive early! I suggest arriving one hour before scheduled theme park opening time. If you are staying at a Disney Resort hotel, then do take advantage of early morning Extra Magic Hours for Magic Kingdom Park if they are offered during your stay.
- As soon as you are allowed to enter the park, go straight to Guest Relations located in City Hall. Talk to Cast Members about your desire to be the chosen veteran of the day to participate in the flag retreat ceremony. In the past, Guests were able to volunteer on a first-come, first-served basis, and although participation is currently not guaranteed, I still think it is worth a try talking to Guest Relations, especially if this is important to someone in your party.
- Don’t forget to wear military distinctive clothing or accessories so that Cast Members can promptly identify the veterans visiting with you. You never know what kind of magic can happen, so you might as well be prepared to be spotted as early as possible!
Carol, I really hope that these tips help, and that someone from your party is the chosen veteran of the day. Regardless of participating or not, please, do take the time to watch the ceremony. I am absolutely sure that you will be moved by it.
Best magical wishes,
Thiana