Disneyland and Disney World are some of the most magical places on Earth, offering guests the chance to experience wonder through thrilling rides, iconic characters, and spectacular parades.
How to Enjoy Disney Parades Without Resorting to Unacceptable Behavior
During the holiday season, the parades are even more special, with festive floats and music that bring joy to families and Disney (House of Mouse) fans alike. However, a growing trend of Disney adults—enthusiastic fans of all ages—engaging in rude behavior to secure the best spot to watch these parades has raised concerns. In particular, incidents where guests have climbed over children and families to get a better view have sparked outrage.
In this article, we’ll explore why such behavior is unacceptable and offer practical tips for guests to enjoy Disney parades in a more considerate way.
The Importance of Respect in the Disney Parks
At the heart of the House of Mouse experience is the sense of community and respect among its guests. These parks are designed to be inclusive spaces where families, friends, and Disney enthusiasts can come together to create lasting memories. Unfortunately, actions like those displayed in recent reports—where individuals push past others to secure a viewing spot—undermine the spirit of Disney.
The Importance of Respect in the Disney Parks
Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the magic without being elbowed aside, and the act of climbing over families and children just to secure a “prime” parade spot is inconsiderate at best. Disney is all about making special memories. It’s about the child’s first experience meeting Mickey Mouse or the thrill of watching a parade with your loved ones.
When adults push and shove to get ahead, it diminishes the experience for others. These acts of selfishness also create tension and frustration, leading to an unpleasant environment for everyone involved. It’s important to remember that Disney is meant to be fun for all guests, and treating each other with courtesy is key to ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic equally.
Why Disney Adults Need to Rethink Their Actions
While there’s no denying that House of Mouse fans—often called “Disney adults”—are deeply passionate about the parks, this enthusiasm should never come at the expense of others. These individuals should remember that part of being a true Disney fan is respecting the space of fellow guests. The issue arises when people lose sight of the core values of Disney: fun, inclusion, and respect.
How to Enjoy the Parade Without Causing Disruption
For example, the act of climbing over families to get a better view of the parade not only lacks empathy but also disrupts the overall experience for others. Many families, especially those with young children, wait for hours to get a good spot. It’s disheartening when someone disregards their time and efforts just to secure a better view for themselves.
Furthermore, this behavior goes against the collaborative and joyful atmosphere that Disney parks strive to create. Pushing and shoving not only affects your experience but can lead to accidents, creating a dangerous situation in a crowded area. It’s essential to understand that while enthusiasm for the House of Mouse is admirable, it should not come at the expense of the enjoyment or safety of others.
Arrive Early to Secure a Good Spot
One of the easiest ways to avoid any unnecessary pushing or jostling is by arriving early. Disney parks are known to be crowded, especially during peak times like holidays, and securing a good spot requires a little bit of foresight. Arriving early—an hour or more before the parade starts—gives you the opportunity to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed. While it may require some patience, it’s a much more pleasant option than trying to squeeze into a packed area at the last minute.
Check Disney Parade Times and Routes in Advance
Every Disney park has a schedule for parades, and these can change depending on the time of year and special events. Make sure to check the schedule as soon as you enter the park, either through the Disney app or at the entrance. Knowing the parade times and routes will allow you to plan your day better and give you an idea of where you can expect to find less crowded spots. If the parade is offered multiple times a day, consider attending a later showing when the crowds may have thinned out a bit.
Use the Disney App for Real-Time Updates
The Disney app is an invaluable tool for keeping up with the latest parade information, wait times, and any other updates that may affect your experience. You can use the app to check the schedule for parades, find out about crowd levels, and even see real-time updates for attraction wait times. This tool helps guests navigate the park more efficiently and take advantage of quieter periods when they can enjoy the parade without excessive crowds. Planning ahead with the app ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience
Respect Families and Children Around You
While it might be tempting to get as close to the parade route as possible, it’s crucial to be mindful of those around you, especially families with small children. Many families visit Disney parks specifically to create magical memories for their little ones, and that includes watching the parade from a great spot. If you’re taller, try positioning yourself behind families or find a spot on the side to avoid blocking their view. Always remember that Disney parks are designed to be family-friendly, and being considerate of others is part of what makes them special.
Opt for Reserved Viewing Areas at Disney World
For those who are looking for a premium experience with minimal effort, Disney offers reserved viewing areas for parades. These spots often provide excellent visibility and a more relaxed experience. While there is an additional cost for reserved viewing, it may be worth it for guests who prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a VIP-like experience. These areas often come with the added bonus of seating, shade, and sometimes even refreshments, so you can enjoy the parade in comfort.
Avoid Blocking Walkways or Exits
When picking a spot, always be aware of the surrounding walkways and exits. Blocking these pathways can create congestion and prevent other guests from getting to their desired destinations. It’s important to find a spot that allows for the natural flow of traffic while also giving you a good view of the parade. Keeping these areas clear ensures that everyone can move around the park easily, creating a more enjoyable environment for all.
Stay Calm, Patient, and Respectful
Disney parks can be overwhelming due to the crowds and the excitement of the experience, but it’s important to remain calm and patient. Everyone is there to have fun, and getting upset over not having the best spot for the parade won’t improve the situation. Instead, practice patience, stay respectful, and remember that the magic of Disney is about more than just the parade—it’s about creating memories with loved ones. If you don’t get the perfect spot, don’t worry; there will always be other opportunities to enjoy the park.
Conclusion: Creating a Positive Disney Experience for All
Disney parks are meant to be a place of joy, where guests can experience the wonder of the magic kingdom together. To preserve this experience, it’s important to show respect for those around you and embrace the values that Disney promotes: kindness, inclusion, and shared joy.
By following the tips outlined above, you can enjoy the parades at Disneyland and Disney World in a way that doesn’t interfere with the enjoyment of others. Everyone deserves the chance to create magical memories, and we can all play a part in making the Disney experience as magical as possible by respecting the space and enjoyment of fellow guests.
