Parade problems

So why is Disney leaving parade fans high and dry? In the case of the disappearing parades at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, the fact that there's so much construction currently happening at those parks means a lot of formerly free areas now have to be closed off. And Imagineers might find it difficult to design a new Epcot parade because of the mile-long parade route around the World Showcase. But leaving the Magic Kingdom without a nightly celebration seems to be unfair. Or is it? In March, Disney changed its FastPass+ options and removed the ability to reserve spaces for Magic Kingdom parades and fireworks. And while years ago, parades were one of only a couple of chances to see characters in the parks, now guests can meet Mickey and the gang at lots of character meet-and-greets and meals. Maybe more and more people think that seeing Daisy and Donald a few feet away on a float doesn't compare to actually hugging them or dancing with them: Disney also seems to be moving toward offering more character dance parties, which are somewhat like a very informal parade.

So what's next?

Even though Disney pulled its parade FastPasses, which may signal that the parades aren't as popular as they once were, there are still plenty of fans who hope the events don't go the way of the Dinosaurs-themed one in the '90s. Part of the reason that people keep coming back again and again to the Magic Kingdom's Halloween and Christmas parties is the chance to see some more unique parades, so maybe Disney could bring back some other classic parades and mix up the offerings from time to time. And the company hasn't discounted parades totally. Mickey's Storybook Express parade has become a fixture at the newly opened Shanghai Disneyland, and the event features favorite characters from Frozen and Zootopia (who would also be very welcomed at the Magic Kingdom). Hopefully, the Shanghai parade will prove to the company that parades are a Disney tradition that should be continued at its most popular park for many generations to come.

What has been your favorite Walt Disney World parade? Share your memories in the comments below!