Editor’s Note: This post is part seven in a forty-part blog series in celebration of Walt Disney World Resort’s upcoming 40th Anniversary. Please welcome to The Window Seat Monina Wagner, Walt Disney World Moms Panelist and guest blogger.
On June 11, 1977, the Main Street Electrical Parade first debuted at Magic Kingdom Park, a shimmering procession that still performs nightly. Take a closer look at Walt Disney World parades and some of the best viewing locations for your family.
At Disney, I like to think it never rains on a parade. It’s simply Pixie Dust before a rainbow.
Parades at Walt Disney World have evolved through the years. But they all continue to be an experience for the senses. They begin with the wail of music. Then colorful floats glide past delighting both young and old. Many guests will watch at least one parade during their Walt Disney World Resort vacation. The bringing together of many cultures during a parade – to me, that’s quintessential Disney.
So are you ready for a fantastic opportunity to see many of your favorite Disney characters? Want to groove in the streets? Here are my tips for best viewing parades at Walt Disney World.
Magic Kingdom
Want an afternoon treat in the Magic Kingdom? Or how about a fabulous way to end your day? Mickey and his friends can be found in the Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade and the Main Street Electrical Parade. Regardless of where they start, parades typically will wind their way into Frontierland. Sometimes I see guests line up along Main Street, U.S.A. for hours prior to the parades, forgetting about other spots along the route. In Frontierland, my family always benefits with a little more elbow-room.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Round up the gang and look for Woody in the Pixar Pals Countdown to Fun Parade. A fantastic spot to watch the parade is across Echo Lake between the Sounds Dangerous and The American Idol Experience attractions. Here my family tends to have an unobstructed view of the action. There is a low wall on which we settle ourselves – a perfect way to rest our feet after a busy morning in the Studios!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Looking for a wild time? Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade is amazing with its stilt walkers, intricate puppets, and musicians. And don’t forget the party animals like Rafiki. Everyone wants to watch the start of a parade, but I like to view the end of this one. Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade begins and wraps up virtually in the same location. So as crowds disperse, my family can enjoy the Parade with breathing room as it makes its way back. Camp out along the path between Africa and Asia for good viewing.
Finally, want to sit along the curb for a parade instead of standing? Line up for your favorite parade at least a half hour prior to its start for good viewing. And be aware of any ropes or barriers Cast Members may have set along the route. Disney has only everyone’s safety and enjoyment in mind.
Times are subject to change so pick up a Times Guide at the Theme Parks when you arrive. And remember, no rain can damper spirits – or a parade – at Disney!
MORE ARTICLES & TRAVEL DEALS
1976: Walt Disney World Resort Welcomed its 50-Millionth Guest (The Window Seat)
1975: Downtown Disney Marketplace (then Lake Buena Vista Village) (The Window Seat)
1974: Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue (Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort) (The Window Seat)
