The Walt Disney World Resort has brought back the divisive Disney Enchantment fireworks show to Magic Kingdom Park.
As we step into 2025, the Central Florida theme park scene is heating up in a big way. In just a few months, Universal Orlando Resort will officially debut its highly anticipated Epic Universe park, raising the stakes for its biggest competitor. With Disney fans grappling with rising costs and fewer offerings, could Universal’s bold expansion entice loyal Mouseketeers to jump ship?
Disney seems to be meeting the challenge head-on, rolling out new marketing campaigns showcasing the magic of Walt Disney “Worlds” and reintroducing enticing offers. Another strategy Disney employs to draw guests is through its ever-popular hard-ticketed events.
Throughout the year, Walt Disney World Resort invites Guests to enjoy exclusive experiences, including Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in the fall and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party during the holidays. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Seasonal delights are complemented by the much-anticipated Disney After Hours events, which run across several parks.
This year, Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom Park is scheduled for select nights between January 6 and May 19, 2025. Event dates include January 6, 13, 20, and 27; February 3, 10, 17, and 24; March 3, 17, 24, and 31; April 7 and 28; and May 5, 12, and 19. Tickets range from $175 to $185 per person (plus tax), depending on the date. Official event hours are from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., but Guests can start enjoying the park as early as 7 p.m.—a perfect bonus for maximizing the magic.
This early access doesn’t require an additional park ticket or reservation, allowing guests to explore Magic Kingdom’s attractions alongside daytime visitors. Notably, early entry provides a chance to hop on rides like TRON Lightcycle / Run—which offers a standby queue—and catch the breathtaking Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular before the exclusive After Hours event begins.
Interestingly, while many popular attractions remain part of the After Hours lineup, Disney recently removed Tiana’s Bayou Adventure from its webpage for the event.
As always, it’s wise to check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-date showtimes and weather-related changes. If conditions permit, guests arriving early can enjoy both Happily Ever After and the returning Disney Enchantment fireworks.
Yes, you read that right—Disney Enchantment returned to Magic Kingdom last night, January 6, kicking off the first Disney After Hours event of 2025.
Debuting during Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, Disney Enchantment aimed to transform Magic Kingdom Park with stunning projections stretching beyond Cinderella Castle and down Main Street, U.S.A. While this ambitious display commemorated The World’s Most Magical Celebration, many fans felt it lacked the emotional resonance of its predecessor, Happily Ever After. The overwhelming demand for the latter led to its triumphant return in 2023.
Now, with Disney Enchantment and Happily Ever After coexisting, guests have the chance to experience both shows—truly a treat for fans of nighttime Disney magic.
In addition to Magic Kingdom’s After Hours events, similar offerings are available at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
So, how do you feel about Disney Enchantment making a comeback? Let us know in the comments below!
