Rumored Filming Dates for ABC Christmas Day Parade at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Revealed

As a huge Disney fan, I’ve been keeping an eye on when they’ll film the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade at Magic Kingdom! It looks like the regular daytime parade, Festival of Fantasy, isn’t running on November 8th and 9th, and that’s usually when they shoot the Christmas parade footage. It’s happened the same way in previous years, so I’m guessing those are the days!

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade is usually only shown during the special, ticketed Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which takes place on select nights from November 7th to December 21st, 2025. But, between Christmas and New Year’s, you can also see the parade during regular park hours. In the past, they’ve also held daytime parades in early November to film footage for the holiday TV special.

I’m excited for the 2025 daytime shows, which are scheduled for 2 p.m.! I heard that on November 8th and 9th, the Christmas parade will probably take the place of the usual 2 p.m. Festival of Fantasy Parade. Luckily, Festival of Fantasy will be back to normal on November 11th. Also, it looks like Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire won’t be happening on November 9th or 10th – I understand they’re building a bigger stage for some filming, so that makes sense.

ABC Christmas Parade Holiday Special Context

The Christmas parade is often shown on The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration, a yearly TV special broadcast every Christmas morning.

This collection features performances recorded at Disney parks, frequently including parades, stage shows, and other seasonal celebrations. Disney doesn’t always announce when they’re filming, but changes to the park’s daily schedule – like altered parade times or show cancellations – often suggest that filming is taking place.

These changes let the broadcast team film the parade and shows without causing too much trouble for regular park visitors.

Implications for Park Visitors

If you’re visiting Magic Kingdom around the dates filming is expected to happen, be prepared for possible changes to the park schedule and larger crowds near where the parades usually take place.

The afternoon parade, starting at 2 p.m., might take the place of the usual shows. Filming for the parade could mean limited access near Cinderella Castle and Main Street, U.S.A. To get the latest details on showtimes and park access, please check the official Walt Disney World entertainment schedule and park maps.

These changes are short-term and usually only impact certain areas while the parade is happening.

Summary

Disney plans to film the Mickey Very Merry Christmas Parade on November 8th and 9th to use in this year’s The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration.

Guests in Magic Kingdom are likely to experience crowds and restrictions around the parade route.