Top Tips for Watching (and enjoying!) Disney's Festival of Fantasy Parade

As a mom with two young kids, convenience and comfort are top priority when enjoying the magic of Disney. Followed closely by flexibility because we all know that kids are unpredictable. One of my most cherished memories at the Magic Kingdom is undoubtedly the grand parade that winds through the park, leaving behind a trail of magic, wonder and of course pixie dust. To make the most of this spectacular event, I’ve created a list of tips for an unforgettable parade-watching experience, complied from years of experience of Disney magic. For those of you who also tear up watching Magic Kingdom’s Disney parade, these tips and tricks are your guide to a magical experience.

Identify Your Spot Early:

The best seats for the Disney parade tend fill up at an alarming pace. As you are walking into the park, grab a map, scope out the route and identify the things that are important to you. A shady viewing location is always welcome in the Florida heat but might hinder your view because the shadiest spots are set well away from the road. The best seat I’ve found is right at the entrance to the park at the very end of the parade route. Not a lot of crowds, with shade and also an up close view. Other popular spots include Main Street, U.S.A., and the areas near Cinderella Castle.

Bring Your Patience and Comfort Items:

The parade is fantastic, but it requires some patience. Make sure your water bottles are full, snacks are ready and the sunscreen is re applied! To get a good seat, you need to arrive early which means waiting a beat for the parade to start. If you have little ones, grab a bubble wand to keep them busy. Ours provided endless entertainment during the entire Disney trip!

Make Sure You Know the Schedule:

It might seem obvious but check the daily schedule to make sure the parade is running at the normal times. The Magic Kingdom parade usually occurs in the afternoon or early evening. During the slower seasons, there’s often only one parade but in the crowded summer and early fall it happens twice a day. Check the daily schedule to confirm the exact timing of the parade during your visit.

Engage with Characters:

The Festival of Fantasy parade is full of all your favorite characters, from Snow White and the Dwarves to Elsa and Ana and even some of our favorite villains. To make your experience even more magical, interact with the characters. Wave, smile, and let the Disney magic envelop you. They will always wave back and some will even step to the side for a hug or a smile.

Be Mindful of Weather:

Florida weather can be unpredictable, so keep an eye on the forecast. Bring ponchos in case of rain and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. A little rain won't dampen the Disney magic!

The Festival of Fantasy parade is a must-do for my family at every Disney trip. We love seeing all the characters and as soon as the music starts, the Disney magic is evident everywhere. I hope these tips help another family enjoy it as much as we do!