Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Christie!
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade is my hands-down absolute favorite attraction at the Walt Disney World Resort. The first time I saw the parade I actually burst into song about how much I loved it! I’m so, so excited for you that you’re planning to attend
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, where you’ll be able to catch this wonderful parade (along with many other wonderful attractions, shows, and special moments throughout the party).
My recommendation is to watch Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade from a spot on Main Street, U.S.A. From this vantage point, you’ll experience a magical snowfall as the parade begins, and the energy on Main Street is fantastic. Another spot I really like is at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. near the train station, where you’ll have a view of the parade approaching you with Cinderella Castle, all lit up with Elsa’s icicle magic, in the background.
If you’re hoping to sit along the curb, you’ll want to grab a spot about 45 minutes to an hour in advance of the parade time. There are two parades – one at 8:30 p.m. and one at 11:00 p.m. (please double check the Times Guide as you arrive, as those times are subject to change) – and the second one usually has a slightly lighter crowd. Still, those curb spots are valued real estate, so my family usually grabs some snacks from the
Main Street Bakery (along with some Starbucks drinks for mom and dad) before we settle in to our spot. As you wait,
PhotoPass photographers will come along with special parade signs and photo opportunities, and there’s some pre-parade entertainment in the form of dancing and games to keep the crowd in the holiday spirit while you wait.
Since you’re looking for a great viewing spot, I have to share a fun add-on option:
Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party. Guests with reservations for this party have access to an all-you-care-to enjoy buffet of hors d’oeuvres and desserts as well as a selection of beverages, including alcoholic drinks for Guests aged 21 and older, at Tony’s Town Square Restaurant between 9:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. on party nights. Guests who attend this special dessert party will be able to view Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade from a reserved viewing area. For all the details, including pricing, please take a look at the Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party web page.
Have so much fun with Mickey and his friends at the party this year, Christie! Please give a big hello to my very favorite Disney characters – Santa’s reindeer – for me. I just can’t get enough of those dancing deer and I hope you love every minute as much as I do!
Wishing you a merry and magical vacation,
Robyn