The Ultimate Guide to Parades at Disney Parks

Since their opening days, parades have been iconic features of Walt Disney World® Resort and the Disneyland® Resort. Generations of Guests have immersed themselves in the music and waved at Characters atop the spectacular passing floats. If you’re looking to plan a Disney vacation that includes parades, we’ve listed all the parades on view at the parks throughout the year. Plus, we’ve got tips on how to find your ideal viewing spot, when to arrive and much more. As you envision your ideal getaway, remember you can take advantage of special vacation financing when you book a qualifying package with your Disney® Visa® Credit Card.¹

Parades at Walt Disney World® Resort

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade

This parade takes place in Magic Kingdom® Park and brings together sights, sounds and stars from Fantasyland. Characters from Tangled, Peter Pan, The Little Mermaid and other beloved stories appear to wave at fans. Original music and familiar tunes make this fairy tale of a parade come to life.

Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade

At this Magic Kingdom® Park parade, Mirabel from Encanto, Miguel from Coco and other pals embark on a journey from Frontierland through Liberty Square down Main Street, U.S.A.® Join them along the route and see some of your Disney favorites in action. This cavalcade features the most Characters of any cavalcade to date!

Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade (seasonal)

This seasonal experience makes good on frightfully fun sights! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party commemorates the spooky season every year at Magic Kingdom® Park, and this parade remains one of the event’s signature experiences. Fans of Disney villains won’t want to miss the special appearances from some favorite schemers and mischief-makers.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade (seasonal)

This seasonal parade is part of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom® Park, and it features Mickey Mouse and his friends in their holiday finest. Sing along with carols and Christmas classics and wave at the jolly Master of Ceremonies himself, Santa! Plus, this beloved parade brings Florida a flurry of snow falling along Main Street, U.S.A.®

Parades to see at the Disneyland® Resort

“Magic Happens” Parade

Celebrate the return of this unforgettable spectacle at the Happiest Place on Earth! See magical moments from Disney and Pixar tales come to life in this whimsical celebration. Characters from Frozen, Moana, Coco and more wave hello from their dazzling themed floats—all to the tune of a contemporary musical score that puts a spin on classic Disney hits, as well as a stirring song co-composed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall.

Frightfully Fun Parade (seasonal)

Get in the spirit of Halloween at Disney California Adventure® Park, as the Oogie Boogie Bash brings out Guests’ best costumes and brings together iconic Disney villains in one spot. When you purchase admission to the bash, you get access to this bewitching parade, so keep your eye sockets peeled for a sighting of Jack Skellingon and other frightful friends!

A Christmas Fantasy Parade (seasonal)

During the most wonderful time of the year, this seasonal parade brings even more winter wonder to Main Street, U.S.A.® as Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse join Disney Princesses, Woody and Buzz, and some special friends from Arendelle to ring in the holidays. It all leads up to Santa and his sleigh in a grand finale.

Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession (seasonal)

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure®Park with this bright and bold march honoring family, friendship and the potential for a fortune-filled new year! This seasonal parade stars Mulan herself, plus some Disney pals. Warriors, drummers, dancers and an eye-popping Chinese dragon puppet are among the stunning sights in store.

Parade Viewing Tips

Check the daily entertainment schedule

Events like parades can be subject to change, so find the parade schedule on the Walt Disney World® Resort website or via the My Disney Experience app, and on the Disneyland® Resort website or via the Disneyland app.

Pick a spot that works for you

Do you want to be in the front row or have a higher vantage point for a photo? Or perhaps you’re seeking some midday shade or looking to be close to an attraction after the parade? Planning your day around the parade includes planning a viewing experience that’s best for you.

Arrive early

Plan to arrive at the parade route about 30 minutes to an hour in advance to secure a spot that’s close to the Characters and gives you a great view. If you’re with little ones, bringing a game or some entertainment can help pass the time quickly!

Fuel up with a snack

Another great way to pass the time? With some delicious treats, like popcorn, a Mickey-shaped pretzel, Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar or DOLE Whip®. Sweeten the experience even more by redeeming Disney Rewards Dollars toward these treats and more.²

Be ready to dance and have fun

Be sure to eat, stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes throughout your fun-filled day to keep your energy up! Part of the fun of Disney parades is waving and dancing along, and if you’re positioned near enough to the parade’s path, you may even get a high-five from a passing Character!

Book a viewing package for the “Magic Happens” Parade

Think about purchasing an all-in-one meal package that includes lunch from the Plaza Inn Restaurant and access to a special parade viewing area at the Disneyland® Resort. Advance reservations are highly recommended and available up to 60 days before your visit.

Consider Lightning Lane entry for Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade

When you purchase Disney Genie+ service, you may choose to select the Lightning Lane entrance for the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade to watch the parade from a designated viewing area. Cardmembers can redeem Disney Rewards Dollars toward Disney Genie+ service, too!²

When you plan and prep for a Disney parade, you can expect an enchanting experience that’s sure to put a smile on your face—and maybe leave you with a new dance move, too! During your Disney parks getaway, remember that you can redeem Disney Rewards Dollars toward all sorts of things, from park admission to see the parades to souvenirs and snacks to enjoy along the way.²