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Disney World Facing Tropical Rain for Fourth of July—Here’s the Timeline

Fireworks, family fun, and a splash of… tropical rain?

That’s the recipe shaping up for Disney World’s Fourth of July holiday weekend. A growing weather system over the Gulf is moving in, and while it’s not expected to become a major storm, it’s bringing enough rain to make guests take notice.

Spaceship Earth as seen from the EPCOT World Showcase at night.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect if you’ll be in the parks this week—and how to handle it like a pro.

The Forecast: Day by Day

Wednesday (July 2) – Things start off relatively normal. Rain will mostly follow the typical afternoon thunderstorm pattern, but storms could linger longer into the evening than usual.

Thursday (July 3) – This is the big one. A stalled tropical disturbance overhead will send showers rolling in during the afternoon and well into the night. It won’t be nonstop, but it could get heavy.

Friday (July 4) – The rain doesn’t clock out for the holiday. Scattered storms will persist throughout the day. While there may be dry windows, keep an eye on the radar. Fireworks shows are still scheduled, but their timing (or even happening at all) could depend on how things unfold that evening.

A rainy evening at Disney World's Main Street, showing the reflection of the street in the pavement.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

What’s the Latest With Walt Disney World Resort?

Will Disney World close? Nope. Not unless things escalate in a major way, which isn’t expected. Disney is well-versed in weathering Florida’s soggy moods. Attractions might pause briefly during lightning, and some outdoor entertainment could get scrapped or rescheduled, but the parks will stay open.

Still, it’s a good idea to go in with realistic expectations. That outdoor Jungle Cruise ride might become a literal cruise. And your Fourth of July castle selfie? It might feature more clouds than sunshine, and possibly some rain.

Rainy Day Disney World Tips

  • Head for indoor attractions like The Land Pavilion at EPCOT or Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Magic Kingdom.

  • Bring dry socks. Seriously. Wet socks will ruin your day faster than any rainstorm.

  • Book a table-service meal midday to escape the worst of it and enjoy a break from the crowds.

  • Download the app to check real-time ride statuses, Mobile Order food, and navigate around any sudden closures or delays.

A wet pathway leads to Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park under a cloudy sky, surrounded by trees and lanterns. People with umbrellas walk towards Cinderella Castle, creating a serene, rainy atmosphere.
Credit: Disney Dining

Final Thoughts

The good news? It’s just rain. And in Florida, rain comes and goes. The bad news? It’s rain… on a holiday weekend.

But if you’re planning to spend the Fourth at Disney World, don’t let the weather steal your magic. Stay flexible, stay dry, and keep the celebration going—even if it’s under a poncho.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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