Welcome Evelyn,
Oh, how I adored the happy tune of “good morning, good MORNING – sun beams will soon smile through” as we gathered outside
Magic Kingdom Park and saw our favorite characters arrive on the steam train to welcome us each day. As with many traditions over the years, things evolve, and change comes to greet us with fresh ideas at Disney Parks. This theme park opening ritual shifted in recent years as security measures continue to change and new benefits are offered to streamline our theme park days. Now, rather than having Guests gather in a large crowd at the entrance to Magic Kingdom Park, there are new routines in place for our safety but also new traditions to open the park. I experienced this just two weeks ago and am happy to share what you can expect.
With the addition of the
Early Theme Park Entry benefit for Guests staying at a
Disney Resorts Collection hotel, all Guests are granted entry through the gates of Magic Kingdom just before the designated Early Theme Park Entry time. This allows for everyone to spread out and slowly enjoy the early morning sights and sounds of Main Street, U.S.A. and even browse shops or pick up a delicious coffee or treat. There is a fun new welcome show presented on the stage of Cinderella Castle, which can be seen from many places around that central area of the theme park. Several of our favorite Disney character friends will be there to welcome you and officially open the park, even with a little spark of fireworks! While it’s not the same show at the train station that you’re familiar with, I assure you this will still make you smile and feel a part of something magical each morning.
Guests who are eligible for Early Theme Park Entry by staying on property may continue into certain lands of Magic Kingdom for that benefit by showing their resort room key or a scan of their MagicBand or Disney MagicMobile Pass. Cast Members have stations established to allow these Guests to pass and enjoy certain attractions for those first thirty minutes of the day.
Guests who are not eligible for Eary Theme Park Entry may still enjoy Main Street, U.S.A, the central plaza in front of Cinderella Castle, and the shops in that area until official opening time.
I find these new procedures to be low stress and welcoming, really a beautiful start to our day! I appreciate that Disney makes changes mindfully, keeping our safety and efficiency in mind while remaining true to the Guest experience and the special Disney magic we crave in a theme park day.
I hope this helps you envision what to expect when you arrive to start your day at the Most Magical Place on Earth, Evelyn! Please let us know how else we can help you make the most of this special trip.
Wishing you an incredible start to your vacation,
Amy