Finale Float for Disney Starlight nighttime parade concept art

Disney Starlight Parade at Magic Kingdom – Tips, Schedule, and Best Viewing Spots

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A new nighttime parade is coming to Magic Kingdom this summer, and it’s already sparking major excitement for longtime Disney fans and young families alike. Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is new this summer and debuts July 20, bringing back a beloved tradition: a full parade under the stars.

Nighttime parades are a fantastic option for families. They’re less overwhelming than fireworks, especially for younger kids who might be sensitive to loud noises. And while I love watching fireworks with my son, the pacing and energy of a nighttime parade feel calmer and more intimate. It’s a beautiful way to end the day, and exiting the park after a parade is often smoother than post-firework crowds.

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Here’s everything parents need to know before heading to Magic Kingdom to experience Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away.

Tips for Watching Disney Starlight parade

  • Showtimes are 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM 
  • Watch in Town Square / Main Street
  • Bring a towel or blanket
  • Mobile order food while you wait
  • Know the characters
WDW_Nighttime Parade_Encanto Float
Encanto Float Concept Art

Parade Performance & Schedule

As a former Walt Disney World Cast Member, I had the privilege of working in all four theme parks. My shifts at Magic Kingdom were always special, but the memories that have stuck with me the most are the nights I got to see SpectroMagic pass by. The music, the lighting, the feeling of wonder—it was pure Disney magic. So when I heard the new Starlight parade would follow a similar format and route, my heart skipped a beat. This is the kind of experience that generations can share.

The Disney Starlight parade will run nightly beginning July 20, 2025, with two scheduled performances each evening: one at 9:00 PM and another at 11:00 PM.

This schedule is a welcome return to the way things were when SpectroMagic graced the park. With two chances to catch it each night, families can build the parade into their evening however it best fits their child’s needs and stamina.

Parade Route & Best Viewing Spots

The parade route begins in Main Street, U.S.A. and travels past the Cinderella Castle hub, through Liberty Square, and ends in Frontierland—just like the old SpectroMagic days. This reverse route offers a few advantages for families. Viewing spots in Frontierland tend to be less crowded, and the area makes for an easier exit after the parade – if you go through Adventureland and back to Main Street.

For a more immersive and photo-worthy experience, Main Street and the Castle hub area are top picks, but you’ll want to find your spot at least an hour before showtime.

For a more relaxed experience, Liberty Square and Frontierland are great options, especially for strollers and families. You’ll end up with a longer walking route to exit the park or to get to the center of the park for fireworks. But, you will experience fewer crowds.

Bring a towel or blanket

You’re going to be sitting on the hot pavement for a long while as you wait for Disney Starlight to start. So bring a towel or other soft material to place on the ground and make it more comfortable. 

Yes, this is Disney’s nighttime parade, but during the summer and early fall months it can still be pretty hot at night, especially on the pavement. The weather can be unpredictable, so bring ponchos or lightweight jackets just in case.

Mobile order food while you wait

One of my favorite Disney World tips to share with someone is to mobile order your food! Practically every quick-service restaurant at Magic Kingdom has mobile ordering. So while you wait for the parade, pull up the Disney app and order some food. Then send someone from your party to pick it up and bring it back to your parade viewing spot.

PRO-TIP: You can mobile order from the Main Street Confectionary, but orders can get backed up so try to place your order early in order to get it in time.

For a special treat, special Starlight Popcorn will be available starting the first night of the new parade.

Guests can enjoy a Star-Kissed mix of:

  • Bubble Gum and Blue Raspberry Candy Popcorn
  • M&M’s® Milk Chocolate Candies
  • Mini-Marshmallows
  • White Chocolatey Drizzle
Disney Starlight Popcorn Mix for sale at Main Street Confectionary - image by Dani Meyering
Disney Starlight Popcorn Mix – image by Dani Meyering

Character Lineup & Float Features

During a media event for the new Little Mermaid Show and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, we enjoyed learning more about Disney Starlight. I saw the concept art up close and heard some of the music – it is going to be perfect for Magic Kingdom!

This new nighttime parade leans into Disney’s deep storytelling magic, with floats inspired by Wish, Coco, Encanto, Moana, and more. Asha, Mirabel, Miguel, and Moana will all have their moments, along with beloved classics like Peter Pan and the Blue Fairy. There’s even a train-style finale float featuring Mickey, Minnie, and the gang, making it easy for younger kids to spot their favorites.

Characters featured in the Disney Starlight parade include:

  • Blue Fairy – Inspired by the original Main Street Electrical Parade float
  • Peter Pan, Wendy, and Tinker Bell – On a new float themed to Peter Pan
  • Asha and Valentino – Representing the kingdom of Rosas from Wish
  • Mirabel, Isabela, and Bruno – From Encanto
  • Miguel, Dante, and Pepita – On a vibrant float from Coco
  • Moana and friends – A colorful float full of island spirit
  • Frozen’s Elsa and Anna – On a tribute float to the kingdom of Arendelle
  • Disney Royal Couples – On a float Tara Anderson (Show Director) calls “beautiful and amazing”
  • Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and more aboard the final float

David Duffy, Vice President of Live Entertainment at Walt Disney World, emphasized that the show is full of “Disney stories that are going to be a part of this parade”—not just one or two, but a vibrant collection designed to connect with all ages.

David Duffy with Goofy, Mickey, and Minnie in their parade costumes in front of Finale Float for Disney Starlight nighttime parade concept art - image by Dani Meyering
David Duffy with Goofy, Mickey, and Minnie – image by Dani Meyering

As a parent, I appreciate that this isn’t just a parade of lights and music. It’s a celebration of stories my son loves, characters he recognizes, and just enough nostalgia to tug at my own heart too. The artistry behind each float, from curved lighting effects to layered choreography, gives this parade a modern edge while still honoring classic nighttime spectaculars.

Parade Etiquette & Tips

Respecting parade space is key. It’s okay to let one adult hold your spot while others grab snacks, but avoid stretching out blankets or blocking areas too far in advance. When the parade starts, have kids sit if they’re able, and remind older kids not to stand in front of seated guests.

Cast Members are there to help. Follow their guidance if spots fill up or the weather shifts. And if your child is sensitive to noise or crowds, consider bringing hearing protection and a few snacks to help anyone who gets hangry. I try to bring a least one toy or a card game to help my son while we wait.

Practice patience and enjoy the dazzling parade!

Born and raised in the land of sunshine and dreams come true, Dani is a proud Orlando native. She loves sharing her hometown with others from the theme parks to Florida's natural beauty. With over 15 years of experience, Dani is thrilled to serve as our Managing Editor at Orlando Date Night Guide, Orlando Parenting, as well as Tampa Bay Date Night Guide.