Exclusive Disney World Events You Can’t Miss on Your Next Trip

Visiting Walt Disney World is always a magical experience, but certain times of the year offer even more opportunities for special events and extra fun. From seasonal festivals to ticketed parties, Disney goes above and beyond to make every visit memorable. Whether you’re planning a trip during the holidays or looking for exclusive after-hours access, there’s always something exciting happening at Disney’s parks.

Let’s explore some of the most popular special events and extras you can enjoy during your visit to Walt Disney World.

Disney After Hours

Disney After Hours is a fan-favorite event that allows guests to experience the parks with shorter wait times and smaller crowds. This exclusive, ticketed event takes place after the park has officially closed, giving attendees three extra hours to enjoy popular attractions. During Disney After Hours, you can indulge in complimentary snacks like popcorn, ice cream, and select beverages, making it a truly magical experience.

You’ll also get the chance to meet and greet with Disney characters without the usual long lines. Disney After Hours is offered at Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on select nights. Tickets for these events allow early entry, starting as early as 7 p.m., so you can get a jump start on the fun before the park closes to regular guests.

H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon

If you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t miss out on H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. This event takes the magic of Disney After Hours to the next level by offering nighttime access to some of the most popular water attractions. The fun includes a live DJ dance party, shorter wait times for rides, and complimentary snacks and beverages.

Like other after-hours events, guests with tickets can enter the park early, giving you extra time to splash around before the event officially begins. The glow-themed party atmosphere makes this one of the coolest ways to beat the heat and enjoy Disney’s water park after dark.

runDisney Events

If you’re a runner or simply love to stay active, a runDisney event is a must-try experience. What started in 1994 with the inaugural Walt Disney World Marathon has evolved into a series of races, including marathons, half-marathons, 10Ks, and 5Ks. There are even races for children, and multi-race challenges for more experienced participants.

Held annually, runDisney events are perfect for everyone—from seasoned marathoners to casual joggers who just want to experience the magic of Disney while staying fit. And with races set against the backdrop of Disney’s iconic parks, it’s a unique way to explore while you run.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a spooktacular event held at Magic Kingdom from mid-August through October. This family-friendly Halloween bash is a special ticketed event that features trick-or-treating, a Halloween-themed parade, fireworks, and plenty of chances to meet your favorite characters in their Halloween costumes. Guests can enjoy shorter wait times for popular rides and attractions, making this event perfect for families looking to experience the fun of Disney with a Halloween twist.

Exclusive entertainment includes the Boo To You Halloween Parade and the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, both of which are highlights of this frightfully fun event. Be sure to come in costume and get ready for a magical Halloween experience.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

If you’re visiting Walt Disney World during the holiday season, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom is a can’t-miss event. This ticketed event runs from early November through December and offers holiday magic like no other. In addition to shorter wait times for attractions, guests can enjoy festive treats like cookies and hot chocolate, special holiday-themed entertainment, and the famous Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration stage show add even more magic to the evening. You’ll also have the chance to meet Disney characters dressed in their holiday best—and maybe even see Santa Claus himself!

EPCOT International Festivals

EPCOT is home to some of the most popular seasonal festivals at Walt Disney World, each offering unique experiences centered around food, culture, and entertainment. Here are the key festivals you’ll want to explore:

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

This event takes place from November through December and celebrates holiday traditions from around the world. Guests can enjoy international holiday food from pop-up kitchens, live performances, and the Candlelight Processional, a retelling of the Christmas story featuring a celebrity narrator and live orchestra. The festival is included with regular admission to EPCOT, making it a must-do for holiday visitors.

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Kicking off the year in January, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts celebrates creativity in all forms. From visual and performing arts to culinary masterpieces, this festival offers something for everyone. Guests can participate in daily Animation Academy events, watch live performances, and even witness talented artists creating art in real-time. Food Studios scattered throughout the park offer artistic (and delicious) dishes.

The Disney Broadway Concert Series is another highlight, bringing beloved Disney songs to life on stage.

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Celebrating the beauty of spring, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs from March through July. This festival is famous for its stunning Disney character topiaries, outdoor kitchens offering seasonal delights, and the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Special exhibits and activities for children make this a fun event for the whole family, and best of all, it’s included with regular park admission.

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

Perhaps the most popular of EPCOT’s festivals, the International Food & Wine Festival runs from mid-summer through November. This event is a food lover’s paradise, offering global cuisine, wine pairings, and culinary demonstrations. While the food and drink do come at an additional cost, the festival itself is included with regular admission to EPCOT. With live music performances, cooking seminars, and family-friendly activities, it’s no wonder this festival is a highlight of the Disney calendar.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for after-hours access to your favorite rides, a festive holiday celebration, or a unique cultural experience at EPCOT, Walt Disney World offers a wide array of special events to make your visit even more magical. From seasonal parties like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to the EPCOT International Festivals, there’s always something exciting happening at Disney.

Be sure to check the event calendar when planning your trip to see what special engagements you can add to your Disney experience!