As 2025 approaches, Walt Disney World Resort is bursting at the seams with record-setting crowds. The holiday season always draws massive attention to the Central Florida hotspot, and this year is no different. The Magic Kingdom resort area is now enforcing strict restrictions across multiple locations in an effort to manage the overwhelming influx of visitors.
With nearly 3 million travelers pouring through Orlando International Airport (MCO) over the holiday period—an astonishing figure confirmed by the airport authority—Disney World’s parks are hosting throngs of eager guests celebrating the festive season.
Following a bustling Thanksgiving, the Christmas and New Year festivities have amplified park attendance, creating staggering wait times and causing Disney’s divisive Lightning Lane Premier Pass—peaking at $449 per person per day for Magic Kingdom—to sell out several times.
Now, as New Year’s Eve inches closer, Disney appears to be doubling down on crowd control while pivoting its attention toward providing premium experiences for its high-paying clientele. As a result, access is being restricted at several key locations within the Magic Kingdom resort area.
On December 30 and 31, Guests can enjoy the dazzling Fantasy In The Sky New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular, which will light up Cinderella Castle twice each night—once at 6:30 p.m. and again at 11:50 p.m. The midnight show offers guests a magical way to ring in 2025 with Mickey Mouse and friends.
While many will gather in front of the castle or line Main Street, U.S.A., alternative viewing spots—such as those at nearby Deluxe Resorts—are usually a favorite for those looking to avoid the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds. However, Disney has rolled out strict new measures at these coveted locations.
At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, access to fireworks viewing areas will be limited exclusively to guests staying at the Polynesian Village, the Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, or the newly opened Island Tower. Visitors must pick up wristbands at the Great Ceremonial House to gain entry.
Similarly, Disney’s Bay Lake Tower, adjacent to the Contemporary Resort, is implementing its own rules. Access to the Top of the World Lounge – A Villains Lair and Terrace is restricted to Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members staying at the resort. Festivities will take place between 6 p.m. and midnight on both December 30 and 31. Capacity is capped at 300 Guests, and wristbands can be collected between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, a wristband system will also be enforced to enter the pool area for Fantasy In The Sky viewing. Unlike other locations, the restrictions here are limited to the pool zone, leaving other areas of the resort open for exploration.
The New Year’s Eve celebrations aren’t confined to Magic Kingdom. Over at EPCOT, Guests can catch Luminous – The Symphony of Us at 6:30 p.m., followed by Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration at 11:54 p.m. Meanwhile, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will feature a New Year’s Eve fireworks show above the Chinese Theater at 11:57 p.m., following two performances of Fantasmic! at 8 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
As the clock strikes midnight, Disney World will not only usher in 2025 but also prepare for a period of dramatic transformation. January will see the start of significant closures, with long-term overhauls planned for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, marking the end of an era for the resort.
What are your thoughts on these new restrictions at Walt Disney World this New Year? Share your opinion with us in the comments below!
