Walt Disney World has announced changes to the showtimes for the Disney Starlight nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom. Starting August 31, 2025, the parade will begin earlier in the evening, with both showtimes moved forward by 30 minutes. Additionally, the schedule has been scaled back, with showtimes beyond mid-September temporarily removed.
Here’s a detailed look at the changes and what they mean for park guests.
Updated Showtimes for Disney Starlight Parade
Earlier Start Times
Beginning Sunday, August 31, the Disney Starlight parade will start earlier in the evening. The new showtimes are as follows:
- Previous Schedule: 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM
- New Schedule: 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM
This adjustment provides guests with an earlier opportunity to enjoy the parade, which may be particularly beneficial for families with younger children or those looking to leave the park earlier.
Impact of Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Nights
It’s important to note that the Disney Starlight parade will not run on nights when Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is scheduled. Guests planning their visit should check the park’s event calendar to ensure they can catch the parade on non-party nights.
Schedule Changes and Future Uncertainty
Showtimes Removed Beyond September 13
In addition to the earlier start times, Disney has removed previously published showtimes for the parade beyond September 13, 2025. This change has created some uncertainty for guests visiting later in the month or during the Halloween season. While it’s common for Disney to adjust park hours and entertainment schedules closer to the dates, the removal of showtimes suggests that further updates may be forthcoming.
Potential for Extended Park Hours
Historically, Disney has extended Magic Kingdom’s operating hours during the Halloween and holiday seasons. While the current schedule lists a 10:00 PM park closing time for non-party nights starting September 15, it’s likely that hours will be extended to 11:00 PM, with corresponding updates to parade showtimes. Guests are encouraged to monitor the My Disney Experience app for the latest information.
Planning Tips for Guests
Staying Informed
With the schedule changes and potential for further updates, it’s essential for guests to stay informed. Checking the My Disney Experience app regularly and planning visits around confirmed showtimes can help ensure a smooth experience.
Arriving Early for the Parade
Given the popularity of the Disney Starlight parade, arriving early to secure a good viewing spot is recommended. The earlier showtime may attract more families, so planning ahead is key to enjoying the best views.
Conclusion
While the earlier start times provide added convenience, the removal of showtimes beyond mid-September introduces some uncertainty for future planning. Guests visiting Magic Kingdom in the coming weeks should stay updated on schedule changes and plan accordingly to make the most of their visit.
For more updates on the latest developments at Walt Disney World, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
