If you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. around 3 p.m., thinking it’ll be a quiet time to grab a snack or do a little shopping, you’re in for a surprise—one that involves rope lines, wall-to-wall people, and a whole lot of waiting. That’s when Disney’s Festival of Fantasy parade takes over the streets, and for unsuspecting guests, it can turn into a frustrating logjam.
What Is the Festival of Fantasy Parade?
It’s one of Magic Kingdom’s daily signature events. Filled with colorful floats, beloved Disney characters, dancers, and themed music, the parade is a must-see for many families visiting the park. Highlights include characters from Beauty and the Beast, Tangled, and The Little Mermaid, plus a giant fire-breathing Maleficent dragon float that always gets a reaction.
The parade usually starts in Frontierland and ends on Main Street, and that last stretch—right through the center of the park—is where things get complicated.
Why Main Street Becomes Chaos
Main Street offers some of the best views of the parade. That means by 2:30 p.m., guests are already lining up along the curbs to grab a spot. Cast Members begin setting up ropes and sectioning off areas, making crossing from one side to the other nearly impossible. By the time 3 p.m. rolls around, movement slows to a crawl.
If you’re not planning to watch the parade, getting caught on Main Street during this time can throw off your entire afternoon. Even quick errands—like picking up a mobile order or running into the Emporium—become stressful and time-consuming.
What to Do Instead
If parade viewing isn’t on your list, here’s where the pros go at 3 p.m.:
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Adventureland – With most of the crowd on Main Street, Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean are easier to access.
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Liberty Square – Haunted Mansion often has manageable wait times, and Columbia Harbour House offers a quiet, shaded lunch spot.
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Fantasyland – Attractions like “It’s a Small World” and Mad Tea Party are good options while the parade pulls guests elsewhere.
A Better Parade Strategy
Want to see the parade without the stress? Stake out a spot in Frontierland or Liberty Square. You’ll still enjoy the whole experience with less congestion and an easier escape once it’s over.
Before heading to Magic Kingdom, check parade times in the My Disney Experience app—sometimes they change for special events or weather. You can enjoy the magic or avoid the madness with some planning.
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