Written by: Jess Brink, Travel Planner
Looking for some extra magic to add to your next Disney World vacation? There is nothing like experiencing an empty Main St. at an exclusive experience like Extended Evening Hours or an After-Hours event. Explore the differences as I provide an in-depth look of each experience offered at Magic Kingdom.
Extended Evening Hours are a benefit for guests staying at select Disney World Resort Resorts, including Deluxe Resorts and Villas. These extended hours occur on specific nights, and they give guests extra time to exploreMagic Kingdom after the park’s regular closing time. As it is available exclusively to select Disney World resort guests, you can expect fewer crowds and shorter wait times for your favorite attractions. On our Extended Evening Hours night we hopped on Pirates of the Caribbean then jumped into a dune buggy with little wait, but you need a valid park ticket. Spend the day at one park, then use your park hopper ticket for a magical extended evening at Magic Kingdom to maximize your time.
After Hours events are specially ticketed events that take place on select nights in the parks, offering a more exclusive, low crowd experience. After Hours events are available to anyone who purchase a separate ticket. You gain entry to the park starting at 7pm without needing a regular park ticket and the party starts at 10pm. I love adding an After Hours ticket to my travel day to start a vacation with a magical night. We went from the plane to our Disney Resort to rest, clean up, and then headed to the After Hours party. This is especially true if you are traveling from a different time zone so that you can easily stay up late. Complimentary snacks and drinks are provided. Being handed your favorite Mickey shaped snack from a friendly cast member makes you feel so special. Magic Kingdom even has an exclusive fireworks show during the event.
Both Extended Evening Hours and After Hours provide a way to enjoy Magic Kingdom in a unique way. Extended evening hours is additional time at the park so you can get to more attractions on your park day. After Hours is a separate ticketed event that has a more exclusive feeling with snacks and fireworks. If you are used to the park in crowds and heat, then you will appreciate the delight of low crowds under the twinkle of the stars. Experience the enchantment on your next magical vacation and reach out to your Middle of the Magic Travel planner to make your plans to visit the castle at night.
