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Magic Kingdom Will Be Closing Off Areas To Guests in Early November

Magic Kingdom News
Credit: Inside the Magic

If you’re planning to visit Magic Kingdom in early November, be prepared for some potential disruptions as ABC gears up to film its annual Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade special.

A nighttime image of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad entrance at Magic Kingdom.

Credit: Disney

From November 3 to November 11, certain areas of the Disney World park may be closed off to accommodate the production crews and camera equipment, creating a unique behind-the-scenes experience for guests. While it might not be the full Magic Kingdom experience during these dates, visitors have the rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of what goes into the filming of one of Disney’s most beloved holiday specials.

Toy soldiers in Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Credit: Disney

The Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade is a television tradition for many families, airing every year on Christmas morning. Although the final product is seamless and festive, the actual filming takes place weeks in advance to allow time for editing and post-production magic.

This year, most of the parade filming will take place at Magic Kingdom, with additional segments filmed at Disneyland Resort in California. Guests lucky enough to visit Magic Kingdom during these dates can expect to see the iconic parade floats, performers, and maybe even a few of their favorite Disney characters decked out in holiday attire.

Santa Claus rides in a festive red sleigh, joyfully waving against a backdrop of a starlit night and an illuminated castle. The scene exudes holiday spirit and magic.

Credit: Disney

The production will feature highlights such as Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, special musical performances, and even some surprise celebrity appearances. The parade’s magical atmosphere is enhanced by the park’s festive decorations, which include twinkling lights, towering Christmas trees, and other holiday-themed décor that transform the park into a winter wonderland. While these elements are usually reserved for guests during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, they’ll be in full display for the filming, making it feel like Christmas has arrived early at Magic Kingdom.

If you’re planning to visit during the parade’s filming, be sure to keep an eye out for cameras and production teams. While certain areas may be blocked off for filming, the park remains open to guests, so you’ll still be able to enjoy your favorite attractions. However, it’s important to note that wait times might be slightly higher, especially near the parade route.

For those who won’t be at the parks in person, the special will air on Christmas morning, giving viewers at home a chance to experience the magic of the holiday season at Disney Parks. So whether you’re watching it from the comfort of your home or getting a behind-the-scenes look in person, the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade special is bound to bring plenty of holiday cheer.

About 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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