Festival of Fantasy Removed in November for Christmas Parade Filming
The Festival of Fantasy Parade has been removed from the Magic Kingdom schedule on November 8 and 9, 2025. In the past, this was done so television crews could film Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade for Disney’s holiday special. We expect the same thing to happen this year.
Disney filmed the parade over the same weekend last year. A friend messaged me the following from Magic Kingdom on November 9, 2024:
“They’re filming the Christmas special in Magic Kingdom today. On a Saturday. Main Street is a nightmare.”
She wasn’t that upset. In fact, she enjoyed taking in some unexpected Magic Kingdom views.
Guests visiting the park during this year’s filming should also expect changes to typical park operations. Last year, Disney closed Main Street during the parade, rerouting guests through the park’s overflow bypass. Parade viewing was still available from Liberty Square, Frontierland, and parts of the hub.
Of course, Disney could always choose to handle things differently this time around. If you’re visiting Magic Kingdom on November 8 or 9, stay flexible. On the bright side, you might spot a celebrity or two while watching Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade (and without having to pay for a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party ticket).
