The calendar may read the beginning of November, but in the Magic Kingdom the Holiday Season is now in full swing! This past Monday (November 8th) the first 2010 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party was held in the Magic Kingdom; snow and all. As usual the Magic Kingdom is awash with beautiful holiday decorations and the guest attending the party were certainly in the holiday spirit. It doesn’t matter what the date, you can’t help but feel that it’s Christmas Eve when you’re at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!
I should point out that I felt that the Magic Kingdom was not completely decorated. Missing was the large Christmas Tree that is usually located in the center as you enter the Magic Kingdom and other than on the parade route no decorations are up. For instance, I didn’t see any decorations up in Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Adventureland. My guess is that the rest of the decorations will be up shortly. However, you need to be aware that if you book the early dates you may experience this.
For those of you that don’t know, here’s some of the particulars regarding Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party features:
– Castle Dream Lights on Cinderella Castle
– Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade
– Holiday Wishes Fireworks
– A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Show
– Celebrate The Season Show
– Meet and greet opportunities with Disney Characters
– Character Dance Parties
– Complimentary cookies and hot cocoa
– Magical snow fall on Main Street
– Many of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions
These parties are “hard ticket” events, which means they require a separate admission ticket and are not part of any “regular” admission ticket you might have purchased. The prices are as follows (including tax):
Advance Purchase:
Adults: $57.46
Children: 3-9 $51.07
Advance Purchase discount is not available on December 7, 10, 12, 17 or 19. The price is the same as Day of Event tickets.
Day of Event Purchase:
Adults: $63.85
Children: 3-9 $57.46
Passholder and DVC Member Discounts: $53.20 / $46.81 (Not available December 7, 10 through 19)
Tickets may be purchased at any Guest Relations window at Disney World Resort, park ticket windows, and online.
Party Dates:
November 8, 11, 12, 16, 18, 19, 28, and 30;
December 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, and 19
Hours:
The official hours of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) are 7 PM to midnight. However, guests attending the party are admitted as early as 4 PM. The turnstiles on the right hand side are used for party guests and the turnstiles on the left are used for day guests. Note, even though you may enter the park before the party starts, the special events do not begin until 7 PM.
Purchase Tickets:
– You can purchase tickets online by clicking here.
– By calling (407) WDISNEY or (407) 934-7639.
– Guest Services locations at any of the parks.
Times of MVMCP shows, parade and fireworks:
Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade: 8:15 and 10:30 PM
Holiday Wishes Fireworks: 9:30 PM
“A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” Show: 7:45, 8:45, 9:55, 10:50 & 11:45 PM
“Celebrate The Season” Show: 7:45, 10:05 & 11:20 PM
Character Meet & Greets: 7:00 – 11:30 PM
Magic Kingdom attractions that will be operation:
Adventureland:
Pirates of the Caribbean
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Swiss Family Treehouse
Frontierland:
Splash Mountain
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Country Bear Jamboree
Liberty Square:
The Haunted Mansion
Fantasyland:
Peter Pan’s Flight
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Dumbo the Flying Elephant
Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Snow White’s Scary Adventures
It’s A Small World
Tomorrowland:
Astro Orbiter
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
Space Mountain
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
Stitch’s Great Escape
Tomorrowland Speedway
Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor
Mickey’s Toontown Fair:
The Barnstormer at Goofy’s Wiseacre Farm
Where to purchase something to eat:
Main Street:
Casey’s Corner
Main Street Sweets
Frontierland:
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe (closes at 10:00 PM)
Westward Ho
Turkey Leg Cart
Frontierland Churros & Pretzels
Liberty Square:
Sleepy Hollow
Fantasyland:
Storybook Treats
Tomorrowland:
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
The Lunching Pat at Rockettower Plaza
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – November 9, 2010:
My wife and I arrived at the Magic Kingdom parking lot around 3 PM and took the monorail from the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC) to the Magic Kingdom. As you entered the TTC there were a number of signs calling attention to the fact that the Magic Kingdom would be closing at 7 PM and that MVMCP tickets were available for purchase.
There were a number of signs at the Magic Kingdom directing MVMCP guests as to where to enter.
If you hadn’t already done so, you could purchase your MVMCP tickets at the Magic Kingdom Guest Services location.
Here’s a couple pictures the decorations as you enter the Magic Kingdom:
Decorations at the beginning of Main Street. Note the absence of the Christmas Tree:
Later in the evening this is where you could meet with Santa.
Located to the left of City Hall is the Candy Cane Garden. It’s obviously a meet and greet location, however, it was not listed or shown on the MVMCP Guide and Map. Nor did I see any activity there whenever I went by. My guess is that it eventually will be where you can visit with Santa.
Holiday decorations on Main Street:
The Cast Members are decked out in very festive costumes:
There were plenty of opportunities to shop for holiday merchandise at the various shops:
All guests that did not have MVMCP wristbands were directed to exit the Magic Kingdom by 7 PM. A number of announcements to that effect were made; and after 7 PM Cast Members asked to see your wristband.
If you entered the Magic Kingdom using a ticket other than your MVMCP ticket it was necessary to get your wristband at a location next to Stich’s Great Escape attraction. Other than at the main gate this was the only location where you could get your wrist band. Cast Members swiped your MVMCP ticket and then placed the wristband on you.
The Rockettower Plaza Stage where the “A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” show was performed. See the video of this show at the end of this blog.
There are three character meet and greet locations: Mickey’s Toontown Fair and Fantasyland. In Fantasyland I did see Winnie The Pooh, Tigger, Rapunzal and Flynn and a location to meet the Seven Dwarfs (located to the left of It’s A Small World).
The very popular Cinderella Castle Dream Lights are back and looking as fantastic as ever!
It was very easy to get information as to all the events, times and locations. Besides all the Cast Members being really well versed, there were plenty of MVMCP Guide and Maps to be had and information boards to help answer any questions you may have.
Holiday Treats were being given out at six different locations throughout the park. At eat location you could get Hot Chocolate, Apple Juice, Sugar Cookies and Apple Slices. There’s no limit (besides your own) as to how much of these items you can eat or drink. During the course of the evening we stopped at the Noodle Station location (Tomorrowland) and the Crystal Palace restaurant.
We did venture into Toontown but didn’t see much in the way of holiday decorations.
There were two Character Dance Parties for the children and young at heart. The Cosmic Ray’s Jingle was held at the Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland and Woody’s Hootin’ Holiday Open House was held at The Diamond Horseshoe in Liberty Square. Here’s a few pictures from Comic Ray’s Jingle:
“A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas” Show was performed at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. (This stage is located adjacent to The Carousel of Progress.) The show was very entertaining with singers, dancers, Mike Wazowski, Buzz Lightyear and of course Stitch. The show is performed at the following times: 7:45, 8:45. 9:55, 10:50 and 11:45 PM,
Part 1:
Part 2:
At the Castle Forecourt Stage you could see the “Celebrate The Season” Show. Mickey, Minnie and the gang perform some of the all time favorite Christmas songs. For those of you who remember, this show reminds me of the old Jolly Holiday Dinner Show. Anyway, the show times are: 7:45, 10:05 and 11:20 PM.
Part 1:
Part 2:
The Holiday Wishes Fireworks were spectacular! In my opinion the best place to see them is at the end of Main Street (near Cinderella Castle) but not right in front of the castle. These fireworks are shot off not just from behind the castle but also to your left and right. Just breathtaking!
My favorite Walt Disney Parade is the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade! Nothing puts me into the holiday spirit more than this parade. I love the music, all the Disney characters, the floats and of course Santa! The parade is run twice a night at 8:15 and 10:30 PM. It starts in Frontierland travels through Liberty Square, down Main Street and end near the train station. The 8:15 PM parade is very crowded, so if you can you should plan on watching the 10:30 PM parade.
Part 1:
Part 2:
One final note, if you want to add a special touch to MVMCP you can purchase tickets for the Tomorrowland Terrace Fireworks Party. Tickets can be purchased at Guest Services or in advance by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). The regular price for this experience is $21.99 for adults and $11.99 for children (3-9 years old). Peak period pricing will be $25.99 for adults and $13.99 for children. The dessert party begins at 8:30 PM and you get exclusive viewing of the Holiday Wishes fireworks and a large selection of sweets and beverages. This is a self-service buffet.
Well, I hope you enjoyed hearing about this years Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of the party or if you have any questions.
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Well, that’s all for now. As my good friend says, “see ya real soon”…DizneyMike
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We attended the Christmas party on Dec 1 and were disappointed in it comparing it to past years. Also – the decorations over Main Street you show in your photos (the hanging garlands that cross over top) were not there when we were there (Dec 1-5th) – possibly they took stuff down because that was when they were filming the Christmas Day parade? We have attended the Christmas party 3 times prior (2000, 2003 and 2005) and this years IMO was definitely nowhere near as nice. The parade and fireworks seemed much shorter The lack of decorations thoughout all 3 parks we attended was noticeable and what happened to the holiday version of the Country Bears? Sadly we won’t be in a hurry to attend at Christmas next year.
Hi Mike,
This blog was really great for the prelude to our MVMCP date. We were at DW 12/9-12/16, attending the party on the 12th. We had light rain early in the afternoon, which made the crowds lighter. The parade was absolutely wonderful, we saw it from City Hall right against the road. The Wishes fireworks were the best we’ve ever seen and the highlights on castle were wonderful. The winds had picked up that evening, prior to the temps dropping, but we loved it and hope to go again in the next few years. The Christmas tree was up and presented a great scene at the entrance.
Thanks for all you do for those of us far away!!
We Love Disney and every thing about it, we been at disney 10 times since 2005 ( 1 week in summer 1 week in winter) we just stayed from 12/11 to 12/17 and the 16th we went to the MVMCP for the first time and we were very exited but it was horrible it was just like EMH with a water down hot cocoa we spend $ 300 extra for nothing, a lame parade, a lame show the only good thing was the fireworks, also was so crowded that you feel disrespected, after the fireworks it took us 10 minutes just to move a few steps people were angry and pushing.
DizneyMike replies: Adrian, I respect the right to your opinion, however, I LOVE MVMCP. I love the parade, the shows and the hot cocoa. I can’t speak for what you experienced that night, however, I’ve been in the MK during the summer when you get sort of trapped by the crowds during the fireworks. Thanks for sharing your experience; wish it was a better one….Mike
Thanks for that! I’ve been to the party in the past, but money’s tight this year so I can’t make it down 🙁 But the pics and the parade video were the next best thing. And, I’m saving my pennies for next year!!!!!
Mike
Hey! You seem very knowledgeable of Disney and the seasonal info! How crowded are the parks from the 15th of Dec until the 21st or 22nd? If we couldn’t get there until the kids get out of school I was wondering how crowded it would be?
Do the big crowds come in the week of Christmas or before?
Thanks for your help!
I really enjoyed reading about the MVMCP!
Christy
DizneyMike replies: Christy, Christmas week is the busiest week by far. I’ve noticed the parks during this season a bit more crowded than in previous years, but not at the very heavy crowd level. So, you can expect to experience moderate to heavy crowds during your stay…Mike
Hi Mike! Great info. We are going to WDW on 12/16 until 12/25, we have tickets for MVMCP for 12/17, could you please tell us if there is something of this party that would be better to watch any other day as you said many of the special events seen during MVMCP run Christmas week. Thanks a lot for your help!!!
DizneyMike replies: Mariana, I would try to do as much as you can during MVMCP because the crowds will be much lighter than during Christmas week in the MK. Regardless of what you do make sure you watch the Christmas parade in the evening with the snow coming down on Main Street; very special…Mike
After 2 fantastic summer holidays in Disney we have booked to come next christmas. These videos are great and we are really looking forward to it, only thing is I see that Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party finishes on the 19th December this year and we don’t fly out until 22nd? Is this the normal date for it to finish?
Lisa
Scotland
DizneyMike replies: Lisa, yes that’s pretty much the time that MVMCP ends each year. The good news for you is that many of the special events seen during MVMCP run Christmas week when you’re there…Mike
Hi, this is about the 5th time I’m going to see the MVMCP and it is just amazing. What I have never seen is the Pirates singing. From what I see they sing some Holiday songs. Do they do this every night, or just during the party? Just trying to plan, so we know if we should try and make some time seeing it. It looks fun. Thank you
DizneyMike replies: Ryan, I can’t say for sure since I haven’t gone to the MK on non-MVMCP nights this year, but I would say that the only time you can see this show is on MVMCP nights….Mike
Thank you so much for positng the videos of the Christmas party. We attended one on Nov 16th but the last 2 shows of at the castle were rained out.
At least now we know what we missed. And that we should have watch the first show at the castle and skipped the Tomorrowland one. So much for saving the best for last. Anyway, thanks again for sharing!
Mike, great pics, I really enjoy reading everything, I must say my DH (19) and I, have been going down for the past 4 Christmas times, love the parade and all the decorations, she is a big toy story fan, will def, make it to that Tomorrowland Christmas show ( never saw that before ), Wanted to ask that Woodys hootin holiday at the diamond horseshow , do you need reservations ? Do u also know the times ? I use a scooter because I have MS and thought how I wanted to see the first show, but after your reading I might just to the 2nd show, you agree ?
DizneyMike replies: Kathy, Woody’s Hootin’ Holiday Open House runs throughout the evening. So, you can come and go as you please and not tickets are required. Also, definitely attend the later shows and parade if at all possible. Enjoy…Mike
We have made plans to attend the MCVMCP on December 7, but I am wondering if I should plan to visit on the 9th instead. I have heard from Disney sources that this night may very well sell out because the locals usually attend the event. I was wondering if this date, the first Tuesday of December, is historically busy. I also noticed that a prepurchase discount is not available for this date, which should have been a clue to maybe attend a different party date. Thanks for all of the useful information as it has been extremely useful in past visits.
DizneyMike replies: Deanna, I can only give you my opinion here since Disney doesn’t release any attendance numbers and, as much as I would like to, I don’t get to more than one MVMCP a year. But with that said, there’s a reason why they have advance purchase discounts (APD). Those are not the most popular nights. If you notice, that nights that are NOT APD nights are discount nights for Annual Passholders and DVC members; so those nights are usually much busier. But to be honest, no matter what night you choose you’ll be fine. My advice is to just pick a night that best fits your schedule…Mike
Hi Mike – We were the family sitting next to you and your lovely wife at the parade. My wife had so much fun sitting next to your wife. It was amazing all the information she conveyed to us! It was great to have insider information real time! Thanks for all you do, and I hope our paths cross again!
Best,
Shawn
DizneyMike replies: Shawn, we really enjoyed watching the parade with you and your beautiful family! I hope that you guys had a fantastic time while you were here in Florida. Who knows, we just may meet up again some day….Mike
I am so excited to see this! I’ll be going to the party on November 30th and I can’t wait! Thanks so much for sharing! The Holiday season at Disney World really is so Magical! 🙂
Mike,
Each year we would like to try and make it MVMCP but timing is a little off for us as our kids perform in the church’s Christmas show. Any idea if thought has been given to ending MVMCP closer to Christmas? We would love to know as again this year will will not arrive until the 20th. Thanks for your help.
DizneyMike replies: Jason, I really don’t know what Disney may be planning in the future, however, I doubt that they would extend MVMCP into Christmas week….Mike
Thank you Mike for such an awesome article on this year’s MVMCP ! My family’s 1st trip EVER to WDW was last Dec. and the first thing we did was attend MVMCP! Seeing your photos and videos brought back some wonderful memories! It really was the BEST way to begin our trip! No one does the holidays better than Disney.
Great post! I was at the MK on Tuesday, November 9th and also noticed that some of the Christmas decorations were not up yet. On that day the park closed at 6:30 which is exceptionally early (I believe) by Disney standards. I wonder if they were using that night to finish decorating? It would be interesting to hear from others who were there Nov 10th or later to see if more decorations were up.
You caught me in the act of pouring apple juices!
Can I get the full quality copy of that image somehow?
DizneyMike replies: Kurt, I’ll send it to you in an email….Mike
Do they operate the “snow” during December on regular days that are not MVMCP?
DizneyMike replies: JP, to be honest I don’t know. Maybe one of the readers will know the answer….Mike
Mike,
Thank you so much for the sneak peak! We are going down the week of December 6th after two failed attempts in a row to make it down for Christmas season. I cannot wait. The last MVMCP I went to was in 1993 (I was 13!). It seems that it’s much larger than I remember.
Mike,
Is Cinderella’s castle already lit for these parties or do they light it during the party? And if so, do you know what time?
Great info!
Thank you,
Victoria
DizneyMike replies: Victoria, the Castle Dream Lights lighting ceremony takes place around 6 PM; but could be a little earlier or a little later depending on when it gets dark….Mike
Mike,
I have been to MNSSHP twice, but have never been to MVMCP. Our family is looking forward to attending it as soon as we can work it out. Thanks for sharing. Christmas is always my favorite time of year. We visited at Thanksgiving last year, but left the day before the Christmas Party resumed. A note to Isabelle from above: our family got wonderful pictures with both Mickey and Minnie together decked out in Christmas sweaters and scarves last Thanksgiving. We saw them not at MK, but at AK on an extra magic hour night. They are not advertised- so keep looking!
Mike,
We just got back from our visit and we went to the MVMCP on Monday as well…WOW! Everything was great!
tip: If you can try to sit on the curb and get a good seat..the floats smell like christmas! Clarabell float smell like gingerbread and the chirstmas tree float smells like pine! WOW! We missed that the first parade cuz we had bad seats!
Great work as usual! I am leaving on Nov 30 and going to the Xmas Party on Thursday Dec 2nd! First time ever for me and my 6 year old? How do you expect the crowds to be for my stay and for the party? Keep up the phenomonal work!
DizneyMike replies: Vince, the time of your visit is usually a slow period so I would expect the crowds to be light. Great time to visit….Mike
Hi Mike
Just back in the UK after 2 weeks in Florida – we went to the first night of the party and were absolutely wow’d by it. We arrived for 4pm and were allowed straight into the park. We decided to do a full tour of the park and get all the rides done while it was still light and we are so glad we did because once 7pm came and we started watching the shows, fireworks and parade we didn’t get time to go back for any more rides. The only rie we didn’t walk straight onto was Peter Pan which had a 30 min wait. I’m glad your post mentioned that there were fewer decorations that you expected as we were a bit surprised that only Main Street seemed to be decorated but that didn’t affect our enjoyment at all. Before we went I really thought this would be a ‘once in a lifetime’event for us but having seen it once I’m trying to work out how soon I can risk suggesting another visit another year – perhaps a bit closer to Christmas!!!!
Hello there. I was at the 11/8/10 MVMCP and had a great time. Didn’t read all the comments here but wanted to respond to the person asking about meeting Mickey. Don’t know if he’s there all the time but for our party he was in his toon house along with Minnie. They both had christmas clothes on too.
If u are already planning on going to magic kingdom on another day I suggest u use the party to hit up the major rides first while u wait for some of the christmas stuff. There were way less people for the party than regular park hour guests.
Thanks for the great info!! We are going on Dec. 16th. So excited about all the great stuff!!
Do you know if the scheduled times you mentioned will remain the same for the duration of the party dates? I am asking because we are attending on December 14th with reservations for the fireworks dessert party in Tomorrowland and would like to plan accordingly, thanks!
DizneyMike replies: Rachael, the schedule times for the parades and shows will remain the same for each and every one of the MVMCP’s. So, you can plan accordingly…Mike
Thanks for the article!
My husband and I are premium annual passholders and, even discounted, the event will cost us around $45 – considering our park admission is always free, what exactly are the benefits that you don’t get when the park is open late (in other words, not a MVMCP night)? I know the lights of the castle will be up regardless of it there is a party… are the holiday fireworks just for the party, or for all nights of the holiday season? And what about the parades and shows?
DizneyMike: Sarah, Until Christmas week the only way to see the Christmas parade is during MVMCP nights. There is a special edition of Wishes fireworks and two Christmas stage shows that can only be seen during MVMCP. There are dance parties for children and free holiday treats like hot chocolate and cookies. Whether or not that’s worth the additional money is up to each individual….Mike
I really enjoyed the videos. It brought back alot of fun memories. My family always scheduled a vacation in December so we could go to Mickey’s Christmas Party. We had been attending every year since 1998(somtimes twice during vacation). The last time we attended(2 years ago) I was very disappointed because it has become so crowded that we did not enjoy it at all. The shows, parade, and the fireworks are still wonderful, but we had to stand in line for every thing we did. We have seen alot of changes over the years. In past years, we were given a free Christmas photo, MVMCP buttons, and other things, but they have all gone by the wayside. The ticket prices have increase so much, I don’t feel that it is worth it now. I really miss going!!!!
We are trying to decide whether to attend the Christmas party at night or to visit MK all day on a Saturday. Does the Christmas parade occur only during the party at night, or also during the day at the park? If we decide to go to MK on a Saturday, is it basically business as usual with holiday decorations?
Thanks,
Leah
St Augustine, FL
DizneyMike replies: Leah, if you want to see the Christmas parade before the 20th of December you’ll have to purchase tickets for MVMCP. The Christmas parade is not run during the day while that event is going on. Once all the MVMCP’s are completed (the 19th) then the parade will be run during the day. So, yes on Saturday it will be business as usual with holiday decorations….Mike
Hi Mike! Thanks for the wonderful info!
I have a question for you. The last time I was at the Magic Kingdom for Christmas was in 2003. Back then, you could see a Christmas parade down Main Street during the day. You could also see Mickey’s T’was The Night Before Christmas show in Tomorrowland. I understand that the Tomorrowland stage where the Christmas show was performed has since been closed. However, is the Magic Kingdom running a Christmas parade during the day? I have checked the Magic Kingdom’s calendar on Disney.com and there is no mention of a Christmas parade during the day. The only parade they mention being shown during the day is Celebrate A Dream Come True Parade, which I have already seen.
I hope you or someone else can help me!
Thanks again for the great info!
Hollie
DizneyMike replies: Hollie, the Christmas parade won’t be run during the day until the last of the MVMCP’s. So, you won’t see a parade during the day until December 20th. Disney can’t charge guests extra money for the MVMCP and then let day guests see the same thing. So, if you want to see the parade or show before the 20th you have to purchase a MVMCP ticket…Mike
We attended the Christmas Party on Thursday night and it was AMAZING! The crowds were super light, my 5 year old daughters were able to stay on rides and walked up to Dumbo and we able to get right on 3 different times. We watched the 10:30 parade from Frontierland and had a perfect view! I would highly recommend stopping by the Starlight Cafe area for the dance party. my daughters danced with Chip and Dale for about 20 minutes and had a total blast!
Mike-
Awesome pics and info!
Do you know the best place to watch the parade? I know you had good ideas for the Halloween parade, but curious the best spot for the Christmas Parade….
Thanks!
DizneyMike replies: Katie, the best place depends on which parade you’re going to watch. We saw the 10:30 PM parade. So, what we did was go to the end of Main Street, near the Castle. We got there before the start of the Wishes fireworks at 9:30. We staked out a spot (if you watch my video of the parade you’ll have a pretty good idea where I was) watched the fireworks and then sat down and waited for the parade. If you’re going to the 8:15 parade I suggest finding a location along the parade route in Frontierland….Mike
I am so excited to go during the holiday season!! 13 more days and we’ll be able to enjoy the Party!! Thanks for the blog Mike!
~Casie
That’s what I like about WDW…is that they love Christmas as much as me!!!
As always wonderful decoration!!…I spent Christmas there twice in 2005 and last year and both parades music were differents. Is my idea or this year parade is the same that last year?
Holiday wishes….as always bring tears to my eyes (and I have the CD so you can imagine how many time I hear it and how many times I cry :P)
I love to be there, but you sent by your blog all the way down to Chile all the “Spirit of the season”
Merry Xmas!!
DizneyMike replies: Marianela, thank you for the wonderful comments! Yes the music for this year’s parade is the same as last year. I know that Chile’s a long way to come, but I hope you can make the trip up here soon. Your friend…Mike
Mike, thanks for all the info and great pics! My family is going to the 12/5 party and we are SO excited!
We are also attending the dessert party that night, which starts during the first parade. Do you think we will be able to see any of the parade from the Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station? I’m not really familiar with the park layout and I’m taking my 1 and 3 year old. The second parade will probably be a little too late for them…
Thanks!!
DizneyMike replies: Melissa, you won’t be able to see much of the parade from the Tomorrowland Terrace. You’ll see the tops of the floats and hear the music but you won’t be able to see the parade. However, the will give you wrist band so you can leave the dessert party and go out and watch the parade. Hope this helps…Mike
My husband and I was there on the 8th.Have not been there for a couple of years.We really enjoyed it. First time to catch the lights being turned on at the castle.Fire works were great.
Love the comments and pics! We’re taking my 3 yr old daughter to WDW in just 13 days! We have tickets for this event but not sure we’ll make all 3 shows – can you suggest the best one for a 3yr old?
DizneyMike: Rayna, the best stage show for a 3 yr old would be the Celebrate The Season show at Cinderella Castle. Lots of Disney characters and music. Also, she will really enjoy the parade. Those would be my top two choices. Enjoy…Mike
Great Blog Mike!
Loved all the pictures & videos.
Arriving Nov.26 for a fun filled week at Disney. Can’t wait to see everything decorated.
We will be at the MVMCP on the 30th, looks like a popular night in the comment section. It will be our 1st time at the party. Going with my 2 boys 10 & 7, Mom(Grammy) and Aunt. Thanks for all the helpful information. It’s really great to be able to plan the night ahead of time.
Mike,
Thanks again for the wonderful review! I will at the MVMCP on Nov 30th and can’t wait. Like you I love the parade and generally enjoy the whole night.
lisa
Mike,
We are scheduled to go to MVMCP next week and looking at the weather prediction one evening is supposed to have rain with thuderstorms. Do you know which rides/events might not be held do to rain or thunderstorms?
DizneyMike replies: John, lightening is the big show stopper down here. Most outdoor event stop during a lightening storm. However, if it’s only rain showers, then you may see events delayed till it stops. If it’s a steady rain (which is unusual but does happen from time to time) then the stage shows will be affected. (Can’t have dancer on a wet stage.) I have seen both parades and fireworks go off in the rain. Hope this helps…Mike
We are returning for Thanksgiving for the first time since 2007. The MVMCP was one of our fav events, well worth the ticket price. We are returning on the 28th. Thanks for the preview all 6 of us are counting the days till we leave! We also got tickets for the Pirates & Pals Fireworks Cruise during this trip. Any comments about this event?
DizneyMike replies: Jodi, I’ve never taken the Pirates & Pals Fireworks Cruise, however, I was a Concierge at the Contemporary and during that time this cruse was only for guests celebrating “Grand Gatherings”. I know that’s changed now and the cruise is open to all guests. In any event, everyone guest I spoke with who took the cruise loved it! I think you and your family will too…Mike
Hi Mike,
I think I can clarify the Christmas Tree issue for you. We were there a couple of years ago and the day we arrived they were filming the Christmas parade. Regis and Kelly were set up where the Christmas tree stands. The following day, the stage was gone and the tree was up. So I think they wait until after the parade taping to put up the tree. Hope that helps.
DizneyMike replies: Lonnie, thanks for the info. I understand they may need the room for the taping of the parade, but in my opinion the tree should be up when they put up the rest of the decorations. The tree adds soooooo much to MK holiday experience…Mike
Thank you so much for posting all this! Even though I have been a few times and know what to expect, all the info and pictures gets me so excited to do it again! See you soon!
Mike, thanks for the post. Though I’ve been to the party many times I just can’t wait for this year’s party. It will be the first time that my 10 year old godson is going to WDW during this time of the year. He is really excited about our first solo trip together and it will be his first time at the MVMCP event. I am so looking forward to watching his reaction to everything.
Hey Mike,great pictures! I have a comment on the pricing of the party. I attempted to buy the AP advance price at Epcot yesterday(11/10)and the CM wouldn’t sell me a ticket at the 53 dollar price. He said I had to buy AP advance tickets over the internet. I called this morning(11/11) and was able to buy the ticket over the phone. The CM on the phone sad you can get the AP advance price over the phone or internet. Just thought I’d let you know so you can tell readers where they can get the AP advance price.
DizneyMike replies: Alma, thanks for the information. Great to know…Mike
Hi Mike! We (my family of 5)are coming to WDW on the 28th and attending the party on the 30th. We are all super excited! We attended for the first time last year, and had a blast. Do you know if the 7 Dwarfs will be around for pictures? We missed them last year, and were hoping to catch them this time around…
Thanks!
DizneyMike replies: Jenny, the 7 Dwarfs have a meet and greet area set up for them to the left of It’s A Small World. You’ll need to check with a Cast Member that night as to the times they’re there. Enjoy…Mike
Thank you for all of the great info. Really appreciated the show and parade times so we can plan our night! 37 Days!
Thanks Mike for the info. We will be at Disney World November 14-20. My husband and I are kids at heart and can’t wait to go the Christmas party!! This is the first time both of us are seeing Disney World dressed up for the holidays. We are very excited!!!
We are going with our grandchildren next week and attending MVMCP on both November 16 and 18. They are excited about riding with the possibility of short lines. Do you know if the Main Street Bakery is open duing the Party? As always your blogs are Great!!
DizneyMike replies: the only two places to get food on Main Street during the MVMCP hours are Casey’s Corner and Main Street Sweets. However, the bakery will be open until 7 PM, so if you get in before then you can stop by and get something from the bakery….Mike
My family and I will be there Dec 11, VMCP on Dec 14. The pics are so great!!
Ahhh the memories. I went to the party 12/1/09; what a wonderful time. However, it was disappointing there was no Twas the night before Christmas show. I am not putting down the events, but I do wish they could update the parade for the event..just a little. I had a great spot for Wishes. I do have to admit, I do love Illuminations a little more though. But I did enjoy the party and meeting the characters.
Mike Thank you so much for the pictures and videos – will be there in early December for the 1st time @ Christmas can’t wait. Can you suggest a good spot to be for the “Celebrate the Season show”?
DizneyMike replies: Sharon. the Celebrat the Season show is on the Castle stage so anyplace, center stage, in front (but not too close) is a great place to see the show….Mike
We went to this party twice in two years and one time got totally rained out but we didn’t care! It is a great, fun time!
We have tickets for Dec 16 and your post has got me excited. I love the pictures and the one of the billboard post on the Rusty Cutlass Pirate Band has intrigued me. Can you tell us anythingabout them? I assume they perform near the Pirates of The Caribean. Thanks.
DizneyMike replies: Roberts, unfortunately I didn’t get to see them perform, but yes they performed on the stage near the Pirates of the Caribbean. Performance times are: 7:45, 8:45, 9:45 and 10:45 PM. Hopefully someone who has watched them will leave a comment…Mike
We will be arriving after christmas and spending new years eve. Any suggestions for family of 5 with teen and pre teen kids?
DizneyMike replies: James, I have a lot of ideas and suggestions. However, I need a little more info from you. I will send you and email and we can talk…Mike
Mike,
As always great review! My family and I will be there tomorrow night! I have 3 teenagers, and they are ALL looking forward to the visit after reading your report.
Thanks Mike for the information. I didn’t
watch the videos though because I will be there on Dec. 5th so I wanted to be surprised since this will be my first MVMCP.
I do have another question though; will be Main Street Electrical Parade still be there in Dec?
DizneyMike replies: Cathy, it’s my belief that on the nights that are not MVMCP nights you will be able to see the Main Street Electrical Parade. The only nights it’s not shown are the MVMCP nights. Hope this helps and enjoy your first MVMCP; I know you’ll love it…Mike
Thank you very much for the info Mike. We are going to this party tomorrow, and I was wondering how the lines were for the rides? We have a 7 year old, and he still does not have a clue that he is going! We are telling him tomorrow after breakfast and hopping right on the plane. Thank you very much again for this info!
DizneyMike replies: Mike, the lines for most attractions were very, very short. You could walk right onto some of the attractions. What a great surprise for you son; I’m sure it will be a wonderful and exciting time for him. Enjoy…Mike
Hi Mike!
Thanks for the great article. I went right out and booked the party for Friday, December 3.
I also booked the Wishes Dessert Party. The prices are lower than you mentioned. The adult price is $23.42 and the child price is $12.77. There are no discounts for DVC members or Passholders so these are the prices for everyone. I hope this helps.
DizneyMike replies: Bob, that for the update on the price. They do have two prices; one is for peak times. I’ll update the blog with the new info. Thanks again for the nice comments….Mike
Will be there next week and can’t wait!! What time does it snow on Main Street?
DizneyMike replies: Marion, I don’t know what time the snow starts as I wasn’t on Main Street until around the time of the first parade (8:15 PM) and it was snowing then….Mike
Are the decorations up at the resorts yet? Any idea when they will be? In particular wondering about the monorail resorts, and the Gingerbread houses.
Thanks for the great post!
DizneyMike replies: Sonja,within the next two weeks you’ll start seeing decoration going up in the resorts. By Thanksgiving week they should all be decorated. However, keep in mind that Disney doesn’t publish a schedule as to when they decorate, so my response is based on what they’ve done in the past…Mike
Thank you Mike for transporting me to ‘My Happy Place’ at least for a few minutes!! The Holiday Wishes fireworks is always my favorite part! Watching your video is not the same as being there but its the closest I’m going to get this year! Its truly magical and really is my Happiest Place on Earth!
All the best for a spectacular Holiday Season!
We are going Dec 2 for ten days… So excited…. We have been planning for two years… We have done mnsshp but I’m most excited for mvmcp.
Hi Mike!
Any idea when the big Christmas tree will be up in the Magic Kingdom this year? Last year we were there until Dec 5th and never saw it! We’ll be back this year and would love to find it up and ready for pictures.
Thanks so much for this wonderful virtual MVMCP experience!!
Carol
DizneyMike replies: Carol, sorry but I don’t know when it will be put up. I can only guess that it should be up within the week; but I don’t know that for a fact…Mike
Thanks Mike
Your detailed information is worth one’s weight in gold..at least to this Grandpa with 3 grandchildren I’ll be tugging along.
Keep up this good work
Regards
JB
Thank you so much for the post, Mike! My boyfriend and I will be attending with two friends on the December 14th, and it will be a first time for all of us (although we’re very familiar with MNSSHP!). We are really looking forward to it seeing the park fully decorated, especially at night. Thank you again for all the information!
We’re going on the 19th and absolutely cannot wait! Thanks for the great pictures and videos. My 4 year old daughter is beside herself with excitment….and so are my husband and I!
YAY! We’ll be at our first MVMCP on December 7th! Thanks for the blog post!
Thank you so much for posting videos of all of the shows, fireworks, and parade. Since I can’t get to Disney World during the holiday season, I still got to see everything and feel the magic of a Disney Christmas!
Can’t wait to see you in December again. This sure did put me into the holiday spirit and I can’t wait to come down and see it for myself. Thanks for the great store photos it helps as I really want to shop. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and we will see you soon.
We go next Tuesday. Can’t wait. Thanks for the info. Could you get a picture with Santa that night? And did you notice if there were lots of Photopass photographers around? I have preordered the CD so I want to take as much advantage of it as I can.
DizneyMike replies: Sandra, I did see an opportunity to have your picture taken with Santa as we exited the park. He was near the flagpole on Main Street. Also, there were lots of Photopass photographers in the park…Mike
If you have tickets for the party, but don’t want to use a day of your park pass, do you know what time you can enter for the party? I have read 4 pm in the past, but there was a chance they were making it 7 pm this year. Any thoughts?
DizneyMike replies: Michelle, they were letting guests with MVMCP tickets into the park starting at 4 PM. So, you won’t have any problems getting in if you get there at 4 PM or after…Mike
Mike,
I just wanted to let you know that at the Candy Cane Lane where there is a spot for meet and greets, is where after the parade we saw characters there last year. They rotated out all of the Winnie the Pooh Characters including Rabbit!
Thanks for your post I definitely appreciate it and all the pictures and I can’t wait to go tomorrow!!!!
I will be at this party next week for the first time and can hardly wait. I feel like I’m 5 years old and waiting for Santa himself.
Thanks for posting. Liz
Thanks for the infos ! Did you get the chance to see Mickey and Minnie ? Do you know if we can see them together this year ? Thanks a lot.
DizneyMike replies: Isabelle, I personally did not see Mickey and Minnie at the times I stopped by the character meet and greets. However, that doesn’t mean they weren’t there at some point. My suggestion would either stop into Guest Services when you get into the MK and ask them and/or ask some of the Cast Members about this. Also, as you know you can see Mickey at his house in Toontown; so that may be where you’ll have to go…Mike
great post Mike – thank you! I’ll be going to MVMCP on December 14th, so excited 🙂