By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
Have you been researching everything there is to know about visiting Walt Disney World Resort and come across the terms “after hours” and any of the special events? Not only do the theme parks (and water parks!) located at Walt Disney World Resort have normal operating hours and conditions, but there are special events and special after hours available to enjoy as well! We know that all of the extra special events going on can be a little confusing to first time guests, so we have broken it all down for you.
What are Disney After Hours?
Disney After Hours are an extra three hours of fun at select theme parks on select nights. This means that not every theme park has after hours every night, and the theme parks have after hours scheduled (found on the website or from your travel agent) on a rotating basis. During these special extra hours, guests can experience the park attractions and snack on tasty treats all with a lower park capacity.
How can I attend the theme park After Hours?
Guests who wish to attend a Disney After Hours event must purchase tickets. Prices and availability do vary and can sell-out quickly.
Does it cost extra money to attend the theme park “After Hours?”
Yes- each guest wishing to attend a Disney After Hours event must purchase a ticket. Prices vary, so contact your travel agent for exact pricing and dates.
What time does After Hours end?
It depends on the park, but most After Hours events run until 12:30 or 1am.
What are Deluxe Resort Extended Hours?
This benefit is available for registered guests staying at a Walt Disney World Deluxe Resort. The particular parks and dates for this perk can be found on the Walt Disney World Resort website, or your travel agent can verify the dates and times. Guests who wish to utilize this exciting perk must also have valid park entry for the day and park scheduled for Extended Hours.
Do any of the Disney water parks hold After Hours events?
Yes! Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is a popular event during the warmer months in Florida.
What is a party?
Walt Disney World Resort hosts themed parties running August through December each year. Guests attending the parties are treated to special character sightings, a dazzling show on the mainstage in front of the castle, themed treats, and exciting parades.
What types of parties are available?
Have you ever wanted to trick-or-treat in The Magic Kingdom or watched it snow on Main Street? The below events can bring those wishes to life and take place at Disney’s The Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
- Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party: Spot your favorite Disney Villains and costume-clad friends during this slightly spooky party at The Magic Kingdom park on select nights from 7:00 pm to midnight. Guests can trick-or-treat around the park, watch a spellbinding performance in front of the castle featuring Disney Villains, delight in the Boo-To-You parade, and enjoy festive treats exclusive to the party. This party generally runs August through the end of October each year.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: This party is hosted at The Magic Kingdom park from 7:00 pm to midnight on select nights. During this magical party, guests can enjoy a festive Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime parade complete with “snow” on Mainstreet, hot chocolate and festive yuletide cookies along with other yummy treats exclusive to the party, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show, and visit with your favorite Disney characters dressed up in their holiday best! This party generally begins in November and ends just before Christmas Eve each year.
- Disney Jollywood Nights: This 5-hour glamourous holiday event takes place at Hollywood Studios. Guests attending this yuletide party can enjoy festive treats, engage with special Disney characters, watch unique shows, and much more!
If visiting the parks for a special ticketed event or for after hours seems like something you would like to include in your magical Walt Disney World vacation, make sure to let your travel agent know so that we can make sure to plan it for you.
For more on-site tips to make your Disney vacation the most magical it can be, please contact us at Royal Carriage Vacations about planning your magical Disney vacation!
