Disneyland Resort is stepping up its enforcement of a new parade policy that is stirring up some controversy among park guests. The policy is focused on restricting when guests can claim their spots along the parade route, and Disney cast members are now patrolling Main Street, U.S.A., to ensure everyone follows the new rules. This comes in response to overcrowding issues, as guests have been lining up hours in advance to secure the best viewing spots for the popular Paint the Night parade.
The parade returned to Disneyland Park as part of the Disneyland70 celebrations, and it has quickly become a crowd favorite. The Paint the Night parade was an instant hit when it first appeared during Disneyland’s 60th anniversary celebrations in 2015, and now, after nearly a decade-long hiatus, it’s drawing even larger crowds of excited parkgoers each night. With its vibrant lights and dazzling Disney characters, the parade is undoubtedly a big draw, but it has led to complaints from some guests about the long wait times and overcrowded spaces.
Guests have been lining up on Main Street, U.S.A., several hours before the parade to claim a prime viewing spot. While some feel that this gives them the best chance to enjoy the show, others, especially those visiting from out of town, have expressed frustration at the unfair advantage given to Magic Key holders and locals who can easily spend the extra time waiting for the parade without sacrificing other attractions.
The rules, which are now being enforced, state that Disney Park guests cannot sit on the curb until two hours before the parade begins. They aim to make the parade experience fairer for everyone, giving all guests the same opportunity to enjoy the show without the need for extreme early camping out. Guests who arrive too early to sit are now being told to stand and wait until the official two-hour window opens.
On Monday, TikTok user @magicallymckenna posted a video explaining that Disney cast members asked her to stand up after she had sat down just 10 minutes before the two-hour mark: “So it appears Disney is actually cracking down on the two-hour camp-out time for the parade… I had just sat down on the curb at 6:40, and the parade starts at 8:50, so it’s ten minutes early, and they asked me to stand.”
@magicallymckenna Don’t worry, you can just stand 😅 #disney #disneyfyp #fyp #disneyland #disneylandcalifornia #distok #distokfam #disneyadult #disneytiktok #disneyparks #disneytrip #disneyland70thanniversary
“I don’t know if this helps or not because now there’s just a crowd of people standing here, and then at 6:50, we’ll all sit down,” she continued. “But, you know. Whatever works.”
The TikTok video sparked a debate, with many commenters defending Disneyland Resort’s decision. “
This is why visiting Disneyland from out of town sucks,” @heyitsthatguyjosh commented. “Locals will camp hours and hours for parades/fireworks meaning you have to give up half your day or not see them at all.”
“People are creating safety hazards in the walkways,” said @addie_1013.
However, not everyone was on board with the changes. Some Disney Parks fans took issue with the rules, feeling that as paying guests, they should be allowed to sit on the curb as long as they like.
“I paid my ticket,” @aubreezuniga argued. “If I want to sit on the mainstream curb ALL DAY that should be my own prerogative.”
Should Disney Park guests be allowed to wait more than two hours for a parade spot on Main Street, U.S.A.? Share your thoughts with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
This is a damned if you do, damned if you don’t for Disney — no win situation. As someone who flies in to go to the park I understand those who are not from the area. Back for the 60th we wait 8 hours for a spot to see Paint the Night — especially as I use a wheelchair. Normally, I see nothing. Even with dining packages. However, we were fortunate enough to be able to have a longer vacation time and devoted a day for sitting and missing out on the park. All about priorities. Not everyone has the luxury of retirement. It would be great if bleachers could be brought and assigned seating; but that is very impractical. Move it to DCA where the route is bigger?, but there is something special being in Disneyland with all its quaintness and ol’ time cheer. Bottom line — Bless all the cast members who put up with guests. I think if everyone could be patient and kind it would truly help — no one is entitled. Follow the rules and appreciate you even have opportunity to go to Disney — some people have no shelter or food, let alone have to worry about seeing a parade.