Credit: Inside the MagicEver since COVID forced Walt Disney World to shut its gates back in 2020, things have felt a little… different. While the parks have slowly reopened and adjusted, some elements of that classic Disney magic have been harder to find.
Beloved attractions like Tom Sawyer Island, the Liberty Belle Riverboat, and Rivers of America are now permanently closed. But at the same time, big new things are taking shape—like a Monsters, Inc. land at Hollywood Studios. Disney is finally turning a page—and Magic Kingdom is leading the charge.
Now? Something major is about to change in a way that hasn’t happened since the pandemic hit.
Enter the Disney Starlight Parade
The main event? The Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade. This isn’t just a few characters waving from moving platforms—it’s a full-blown sensory experience. There are towering illuminated floats, synchronized music, shimmering effects, and characters from classics and modern hits. It’s vibrant. It’s fresh. And it’s drawing massive crowds.
Tiana’s crew floats under glowing lanterns, followed by electrified appearances from Moana, Encanto, and Frozen. Even Mickey and friends look sharper than ever with high-tech lighting and coordinated dance routines. The whole thing pulses with energy and nostalgia all at once.
And let’s be honest—it’s been a while since a parade made this kind of splash. Guests love it, saying it captures that long-missed “Disney at night” feeling.
BUT this isn’t the nighttime pandemic change fans have been waiting for.
The Return We’ve All Been Waiting For
Now here’s where things get really exciting. Word on the street is that Starlight Parade may soon be running as late as 11 p.m., marking the first time Magic Kingdom has returned to those hours since the pandemic began.
Before COVID, it wasn’t uncommon for the park to stay open until midnight. But since reopening, earlier closings have been the norm—8 or 9 p.m. at best. If Starlight Parade does bump the clock back to those late-night hours, it signals a major shift.
That means longer park days, fuller schedules, more nighttime dining, and a true “vacation pace” that doesn’t end as soon as the sun goes down.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about a parade. It’s about Disney stepping back into its full power. With big new lands on the way, classic attractions fading out, and new nighttime experiences lighting up the skyline, the company clearly says the post-COVID era is officially over.
A Bold Comeback
So what’s the takeaway? Between the glowing Starlight Parade, a likely return to 11 p.m. hours, and park-wide investments in new lands and experiences, Disney is making a statement. Magic Kingdom isn’t just getting back on its feet—it’s sprinting into the future.
For longtime fans, it’s the moment we’ve been waiting for. And for newcomers? There’s never been a better time to see the park shine after dark.