Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Is Making a Rare Parade Change, Effective November 10
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade will perform during the day at Magic Kingdom on two dates in November. The special performances are for filming the ABC holiday special.
That means regular park guests can see the holiday parade without a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ticket.
Filming Dates and Time
Time: 2:00 PM
Dates:
- Tuesday, November 10
- Wednesday, November 11
Last year, filming took place on November 8 and 9.
Festival of Fantasy Off the Schedule
The Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade is no longer scheduled at its usual afternoon time on these dates. That suggests ABC filming will happen on both days.
If you were planning to see Festival of Fantasy on November 10 or 11, plan to watch the holiday parade instead.
Why These Dates Matter
Normally:
- The parade runs at night during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
- A separate party ticket is required
- Daytime performances usually start during Christmas and New Year’s Eve week
On November 10 and 11:
- The parade runs during the day
- Regular park guests can watch
- Crowds are typically lighter than late December
What’s in the Parade
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade features:
- Disney character appearances
- Festive floats
- Holiday music
- Santa Claus
Parade Route
The parade typically follows this route:
- Starts in Frontierland, next to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
- Travels through Liberty Square
- Goes around the hub in front of Cinderella Castle
- Heads down Main Street, U.S.A.
Viewing tips:
- Main Street, U.S.A. and the hub will likely be busiest
- Frontierland and Liberty Square may offer better spots with smaller crowds
- Expect cameras and crew along the route
When the Specials Air
ABC hasn’t announced this year’s air dates yet.
Last year:
- The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular aired Monday, December 1
- The Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade aired Thursday, December 25
If the schedule is similar, this year’s specials will likely air in December.
Planning Tips
- Arrive early. Filming days may draw larger crowds.
- Pick your spot wisely. Try Frontierland or Liberty Square for more space.
- Adjust your afternoon plans. Festival of Fantasy won’t run at its usual time.
- Watch for updates. We’ll share air dates for the ABC specials once they’re announced.
A Holiday Head Start
For guests visiting Magic Kingdom in mid-November, these filming days are a fun bonus. You’ll get to see Santa, Mickey, and holiday floats on Main Street, U.S.A. weeks before Christmas, with no party ticket required.
Will you be at Magic Kingdom on November 10 or 11?
