This Huge Change at Disney World Could Have Big Implications for Guests: Here’s Why

Walt Disney World Resort is set to enchant guests this Thanksgiving season with extended park hours across its iconic destinations.

Extended Park Hours Elevate Thanksgiving Magic at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort is set to enchant guests this Thanksgiving season with extended park hours across its iconic destinations. These enhancements aim to create a more magical and seamless experience during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.

Early Openings: Start Your Disney Day Sooner

For early risers, the new schedule at Magic Kingdom offers a golden opportunity. From 7:30 a.m. during Thanksgiving week, guests can get a head start on the park’s beloved attractions. This additional hour allows families to enjoy favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Peter Pan’s Flight with shorter wait times, maximizing the magic before the crowds arrive.

Late Closures: Nights Full of Magic

Extended evening hours add a touch of enchantment to the day. Magic Kingdom, for instance, will remain open until 11:00 p.m. on select days, giving guests extra time to explore attractions illuminated under the night sky. From thrilling rides like Space Mountain to the breathtaking Happily Ever After fireworks display, the extended hours create unforgettable experiences for families to cherish.

Navigating Crowds at Disney World: Strategic Magic

Thanksgiving is a popular time at Disney World, but the extended hours allow guests to strategically plan their visits:

• Early Entry: Take advantage of lighter morning crowds to enjoy high-demand attractions.
• Late Evening Visits: Avoid peak afternoon times and experience the parks in their quieter, more magical nighttime state.
• Midday Breaks: Resting during the busiest hours of the day ensures you’re recharged for nighttime fun.

Magic Kingdom Highlights: Morning and Night Magic

The updated schedule at Magic Kingdom ensures an enchanting experience at any time of day.

Morning Magic

The early 7:30 a.m. opening is a game-changer for families eager to make the most of their day. Guests can enjoy iconic rides with minimal wait times, creating a relaxed and enjoyable start to the day.

Nighttime Wonders

After sunset, Magic Kingdom transforms into a spectacle of lights and sounds. Extended hours provide time for nighttime attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and immersive shows like the Happily Ever After fireworks, making the evening magical for all ages.

Animal Kingdom After Dark: A Twilight Adventure for Disney World Guests

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will remain open until 7:00 p.m. from November 24 to 26, allowing guests to experience the park in a whole new light—literally.

Twilight Experiences

As day turns to dusk, Animal Kingdom becomes an enchanting haven. Guests can witness Pandora – The World of Avatar come alive with bioluminescent pathways and breathtaking scenery. Twilight rides on Kilimanjaro Safaris offer a unique chance to spot nocturnal wildlife in action.

Perfect Photo Ops

Evening hours are ideal for capturing stunning family photos. The soft glow of twilight and reduced foot traffic create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.

Pro Tips: Making the Most of Your Thanksgiving Visit at Disney World

Utilize Early Entry

Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can enter the parks before the general public. This exclusive time is perfect for enjoying high-demand attractions with significantly shorter wait times.

Plan Ahead with Dining Reservations

Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest times at Disney, and dining spots fill quickly. Popular restaurants like Be Our Guest and Oga’s Cantina should be booked in advance to secure a relaxing meal break amid the excitement.

Embrace the Holiday Spirit

The parks are adorned with festive decorations and seasonal treats, adding to the holiday cheer. Visitors can indulge in unique snacks and shop for holiday-themed merchandise to bring home a piece of the magic.

Celebrate the Magic of Thanksgiving at Disney World

The extended hours at Walt Disney World Resort this Thanksgiving create endless opportunities for families to explore, relax, and celebrate. From early morning adventures to nighttime enchantment, these enhancements ensure a magical holiday filled with cherished memories.

Plan ahead, embrace the festive atmosphere, and prepare for an unforgettable Thanksgiving experience at Walt Disney World!