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Heads Up! Major Magic Kingdom Areas Closing Down Beginning November

With the holiday season just around the corner, Magic Kingdom is preparing for one of its most exciting annual events: the filming of the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade special.

A brightly lit street at night, adorned with festive wreaths and garlands, resembles a Disney jigsaw puzzle in its charm. A large Christmas tree stands at the center, surrounded by illuminated buildings. The sky is a deep blue, enhancing the holiday ambiance.
Credit: Disney

Starting on November 3 and running through November 11, the park will play host to the ABC production team as they capture footage for this highly anticipated broadcast. Visitors should be aware that portions of the park might be temporarily closed or rerouted during the filming process, but this offers a rare opportunity to witness the magic of Disney’s behind-the-scenes production.

The Christmas Day Parade special has been a holiday staple for Disney fans for years, bringing the festive spirit of the parks into homes across the country. Filming takes place in early November to ensure that everything is perfectly polished before it airs on Christmas morning. While the final product showcases dazzling floats, beloved Disney characters, and holiday musical performances, the filming process allows guests to see how this enchanting event is created.

Disney characters dressed in festive holiday attire stand in front of a castle. From left to right: Pluto with reindeer antlers, Minnie Mouse in a candy cane dress, Mickey Mouse in a green suit, Donald Duck in a red snowflake sweater, and Goofy in a Santa outfit.
Credit: Disney

One of the most exciting elements of the special is Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, which typically runs during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. During filming, guests may catch a glimpse of this iconic parade along with other holiday-themed entertainment, adding a festive flair to their park experience. Magic Kingdom will be fully decked out in its holiday best, from twinkling lights to towering Christmas trees, immersing guests in the season even before Thanksgiving.

However, it’s important for visitors to plan accordingly. Certain attractions, pathways, or even sections of Main Street, U.S.A. may be temporarily blocked off for filming, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on schedules and updates during your visit. For those eager to avoid any disruptions, it might be best to focus on other areas of the park, as there will still be plenty to see and do.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, decked out in festive holiday outfits, stand on a decorated float at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023. The scene glows with colorful lights, a towering Christmas tree, and a cheering crowd as snow gently falls around them at Magic Kingdom Park.
Credit: Disney

While the filming of the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade adds an exciting element to the park, it also signals the start of Magic Kingdom’s holiday season. The holiday decorations, including the iconic Cinderella Castle draped in twinkling lights, set the perfect backdrop for both the parade and guests’ holiday memories.

Whether you’re at the park to witness the filming or planning to watch from home, the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade special is a can’t-miss part of the holiday season. Set your calendars for Christmas morning to see how all the magic comes together!

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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