Hi Emma!
Thanks for bringing this question to planDisney!
We’ve just learned some new details about the
Disney Starlight parade, which debuts on July 20, 2025, so I’m happy to help you plan the perfect evening at Magic Kingdom!
First and foremost, though…the times that have been announced are subject to change. And I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s a bit different by the time April 2026 comes around. In the past, the fireworks show at Magic Kingdom has been based on the sunset, so the show and parade might be a bit earlier in the springtime than they are this summer.
As your trip gets closer, I highly recommend checking the
Hours & Events Calendar for the most up-to-date showtimes for the nighttime parade and fireworks. That calendar usually shows park hours and showtimes about 2 months in advance.
Ok, now that I’ve made that disclaimer, let’s chat about what we do know! When it debuts, the Disney Starlight parade will have two nightly showings: one at 9 PM and one at 11 PM.
Happily Ever After (the Magic Kingdom fireworks show) will be at 10 PM.
I think watching the fireworks from Fantasyland behind Cinderella Castle is a great plan, especially since I expect crowds to be even bigger in front of the castle with both the parade and the fireworks back to back.
My recommendation would be to snag a spot for the Disney Starlight parade in Liberty Square. Then, as soon as the parade passes by, make your way back to Fantasyland by taking the path that goes past
Haunted Mansion. That way, you’ll avoid the large crowds at the front of the castle. And you’ll be able to access all of Fantasyland depending on where you’d like to watch the fireworks.
My favorite spots to watch the fireworks from Fantasyland are by the Tangled bathrooms (near
It’s a Small World and
Peter Pan’s Flight), near
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, and near the entrance to Storybook Circus by
Dumbo.
While you won’t be able to see the projections on the castle during Happily Ever After if you’re in Fantasyland, I can confirm that it’s much quieter with fewer crowds back there! You’ll also notice that the fireworks come from a couple of different areas, which my boys always think is so cool to see.
I hope that helps! As you continue your countdown to Disney, let us know if you have any other questions!
Jenn J.