Who doesn’t love Disney movies? The magic, the music, and the happy endings are classic staples of family movie nights.
And this holiday season, Disney has outdone themselves with their new Very Merry After Hours event! During this event, park guests can enjoy exclusive nighttime access to select rides, character meet-and-greets, and festive entertainment. So if you’re looking for a way to get extra merry this Christmas season, look no further than Disney’s Very Merry After Hours!
Table of Contents
Disney Christmas Party
Each year, Disney fans around the world eagerly await the annual Christmas Party at the Disney theme park. This festive event is always a highlight of the holiday season, with fun activities and entertainment for everyone to enjoy.
In 2022, the party promises to be even bigger and better than ever before, with magical decorations and festive treats scattered throughout the park. Visitors can look forward to interacting with their favorite characters, watching exciting live shows, and admiring spectacular displays of light and color. So if you’re looking for some holiday cheer this winter, be sure to mark your calendars for Disney’s Christmas Party in 2022!
What Is Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours?
If you’re a Disney fan looking to experience the magic of the holidays in an extra special way, look no further than Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours event! During this exclusive nighttime event, guests enjoy rare access to select rides, character meet-and-greets, and holiday entertainment.
Whether you want to see some spectacular fireworks, dance with some beloved Disney characters, or just soak in the joyous atmosphere of the season, Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours is sure to delight. So if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience this year, don’t miss out on Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours!
This event takes place at the Magic Kingdom part and is a separately ticketed event.
Disney Very Merriest After Hours Basics
Back in 2020, there was Magic Kingdom After Hours and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Both of which have been affected by the pandemic closing and opening of Disney World.
The reason it’s called “after hours” is because it gives guests the opportunity to enjoy and access the parks after hours. This means shorter wait times, more exclusive events and activities, and various festive attractions to enjoy while celebrating the holiday season.
After Magic Kingdom’s regular hours, it will remain open for a few hours after for the event.
There Are Other Disney After Hour Events
As well as the Very Merry After Hours event, there are other “after hours” events that have been offered in the past.
For example, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has previously offered an after-hours event called Dinoland USA After Dark. This event gave guests the chance to enjoy the park’s attractions and entertainment after regular hours.
Similarly, there was one called Magic Kingdom Villian After Hours, which was a limited-time event that gave guests the chance to enjoy special villain-themed shows and character meet-and-greets in the park.
We did get to see Disney’s After Hours Boo Bash and had so much fun!
The difference here is that Very Merriest After Hours will also serve as a replacement for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This means events, parades, character outfits, and more will be unique to the event. Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours will be the only place to see it!
How Is Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours Different From Other After Hours?
At Disney, every after hours event is special in its own way. From the celebratory razzle-dazzle of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party to the immersive Star Wars celebration of Star Wars: Galactic Nights, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic after dark. However, one event stands out from the rest as truly exceptional: Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours.
Unlike many other after hours events, this one isn’t just a themed party or festival – it is an all-inclusive holiday paradise.
From snow flurries and carolers to festive food and drink offerings, Christmas comes alive at this special event. Best of all, it offers all of these magical delights with considerably fewer crowds than on regular park days.
Disney Very Merriest After Hours: Dates and Hours
Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours event is a magical evening exclusive to Walt Disney World Resort guests.
This after-hours event takes place on select dates in December, from 9 pm until midnight. During this special event, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Disney theme parks at a reduced crowd level, enjoying rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets all night long.
Some of the most popular attractions are open for rides during the very merriest after hours, including Space Mountain and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Plus, with extra time to interact with beloved Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie, it’s sure to be an unforgettable evening of fun!
We don’t know the exact 2022 dates yet but it will take place on about 25 select nights from around November 7, 2022, through December 20, 2022 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Here were the 2021 dates:
November: 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 28, 30
December: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 19, 21
So if you’re looking for a festive way to celebrate the holidays at Disney this year, be sure to mark your calendar for the dates and times of the very merriest after hours.
When Will Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours Tickets Be On Sale?
It’s exciting to think about the opportunity to be at Disney World amongst the festive decorations, holiday-themed food and drinks, and special character experiences.
And of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to take photos with Mickey and the gang! Very Merriest After Hours takes place on select nights in November and December. Tickets go on sale on August 20th for most guests. If you’re a Disney resort guest you can start purchasing tickets on August 17th. So if you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World this holiday season, be sure to check out Very Merriest After Hours!
How Much Does Disney Very Merriest After Hours Cost?
Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours event is a popular addition to the company’s holiday festivities. This special nighttime experience is focused on providing fun and festive experiences for guests of all ages. So what does it cost to attend this exciting event?
The base price for Disney Very Merriest After Hours is $169-$229 per person. This price can vary slightly depending on the date selected. There is a $10 discount for Disney World annual passholders and DVC members on select dates.
Do I Need A Parks Pass Reservation For Very Merriest?
No, a valid theme park ticket and Disney Park Pass Reservation is required for entry. Purchasing tickets to Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours gives you access to the event only.
This is separate from your standard theme park entrance that allows you access to Magic Kingdom during the day.
For access to Magic Kingdom during the day, guests will need theme parks tickets and to make a Disney Park Pass Reservation for the same day as their event ticket.
When Can Very Merriest Guests Enter Magic Kingdom?
When you purchase tickets to Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours, you will be able to enter Magic Kingdom at 7pm. The event takes place from 9 pm to 1am.
You do technically get two bonus hours of park time while the day guests are still there.
If you want to be in the park earlier you’ll need a ticket for that day with a park reservation for Magic Kingdom or park hopper tickets.
WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH DISNEY VERY MERRIEST AFTER HOURS
With Disney’s Very Merry After Hours, you get all the perks of a traditional Disney park experience, but with an exciting twist.
This special event gives you access to dozens of rides, shows, and attractions that are only open during the event hours. In addition to unlimited access to these beloved attractions, you also get free snacks and drinks like popcorn, ice cream bars, and hot cocoa.
Other fun features include character meet-and-greets, a holiday parade complete with festive floats and marching bands, and live entertainment throughout the park. So if you’re looking for a magical holiday experience unlike any other, be sure to check out Disney’s Very Merry After Hours!
What rides are open for Disney merriest after hours?
Disney Very Merriest After Hours vs Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
When it comes to holiday celebrations, Disney knows how to do it right. Every year, the parks get decked out in festive decorations, and guests used to be able to enjoy Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and now, Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party was a separately ticketed event that takes place on select nights in November and December. Guests were able to enjoy exclusive character meet and greets, festive decorations, and special holiday fireworks show. There was also plenty of holiday-themed dining and shopping options available.
Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours is the new event for 2010 and on, that takes place on select nights from November 9 – to December 21. This event includes all of the same festive fun as the Christmas Party, but with fewer crowds. That means shorter lines for attractions and character meet and greets! Guests can also enjoy complimentary holiday treats and unlimited soda and coffee throughout the night. If you’re looking for a more low-key Disney holiday experience, this is the event for you.
Capacity
The capacity of Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours is different than Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party had a capacity of around 30,000 guests per night, while Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours has a lower capacity of only 15,000 guests.
This means that you will have fewer crowds and shorter lines during the event, making it a more enjoyable experience overall.
Snacks
While the Christmas Party included holiday-themed treats like cookies and hot chocolate, the Merriest After Hours event includes complimentary popcorn, ice cream bars, and hot cocoa.
Characters
At Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you could see characters like Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, the Seven Dwarfs, and more.
At Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours, you can see characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck. All in exclusive holiday attire.
Rides
Both the Christmas Party and Merriest After Hours include access to a variety of rides, shows, and attractions that are only open during event hours. Some of these include Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, It’s a Small World Holiday, and more.
Why Attend Disney Very Merriest After Hours?
If you’re looking for a more low-key Disney holiday experience, Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours is the event for you. With shorter lines and fewer crowds, you’ll be able to enjoy all of your favorite rides and attractions without all of the hustle and bustle.
Plus, you can treat yourself to complimentary snacks and drinks like ice cream bars, popcorn, and hot cocoa. And of course, you’ll get to experience all of the festive holiday decorations throughout the park, as well as special character meet-and-greets and live entertainment.Wait Times
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade is one of the most beloved holiday traditions in all of Disney World. Every year, excited crowds gather along Main Street to catch a glimpse of Mickey and his friends decked out in dazzling holiday garb as they dance and twirl with joy down the streets.
The parade features a wide variety of stunningly ornate floats, each dedicated to beloved Disney characters and their holiday adventures. From reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh to Donald Duck dressed up as St. Nick, this parade is sure to get you into the spirit of the season. So if you’re visiting Disney World during Christmas, make sure you don’t miss Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade – it’s an experience that you’ll never forget!
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show is another beloved holiday tradition at Disney World. Every year, excited crowds gather around Cinderella’s Castle to catch a glimpse of Minnie Mouse dressed in her dazzling holiday best launching fireworks into the night sky.
The show features stunning displays of vibrant colors and festive holiday music, perfectly choreographed to create a truly magical experience. So if you’re visiting Disney World during Christmas, make sure you don’t miss Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show – it’s an experience that you’ll never forget!
Mickey and Minnie’s Very Merry Memories Stage Show
Mickey and Minnie’s Very Merry Memories Stage Show is a must-see for any Disney fan during the holiday season. This live show features Mickey and Minnie Mouse as they share their fondest holiday memories with the audience.
The show is filled with delightful songs, dances, and skits that are sure to get you into the holiday spirit. So if you’re visiting Disney World during Christmas, make sure you don’t miss Mickey and Minnie’s Very Merry Memories Stage Show – it’s an experience that you’ll never forget!
Disney Very Merriest After Hours Ride Overlays
If you’re looking for a special Disney holiday experience, then be sure to check out the ride overlays at Disney Very Merriest After Hours. These specially designed holiday versions of your favorite rides will take you on a journey through magical winter wonderlands and festive Christmas scenes.
Some of our favorites include Space Mountain: Ghost Galaxy, Jungle Cruise: Jingle Cruise, It’s a Small World Holiday, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Return to Christmas Town. So if you’re visiting Disney World during Christmas, be sure to check out the ride overlays at Disney Very Merriest After Hours – they’re an experience that you’ll never forget!
Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor
As the holiday season approaches, I always look forward to visiting Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor at Walt Disney World. This fun attraction transforms into a winter wonderland each year, complete with festive Christmas decorations and blinking lights. Whether you’re a fan of Holiday Monsters or not, there’s no denying that this is one of the most entertaining things to do in Disney World during the holidays.
The comedic performers keep the energy levels high throughout the show, and I’ve never left without feeling like I got my money’s worth. If you’re looking for some family-friendly holiday fun, be sure to visit Monster’s Inc Laugh Floor at Walt Disney World! You won’t regret it!
Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is one of the most popular attractions at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Every year, the ride is transformed into a festive holiday experience, complete with Christmas lights, decorations, and holiday-themed jokes from the skippers.
The Jungle Cruise Christmas decorations are some of the most elaborate in the park, and they always bring a smile to guests’ faces. While the ride is only temporarily closed for a few days to prepare for the holidays, it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re visiting the park during Christmas time. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Treats Included With Disney Very Merriest After Hours Tickets
If you’re planning on visiting Disney Very Merriest After Hours this holiday season, be sure to grab some delicious treats while you’re there! As part of your ticket package, you’ll get access to all the amazing seasonal snacks and treats that are available at the parks.
Some of our favorites include gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark , hot chocolate, and of course, Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels.
Characters at Disney’s Very Merrierst After Hours
During the holiday season, Disney’s Very Merrierst After Hours is the place to be if you want to meet your favorite Disney characters! With a wide variety of special guests available each night, there’s something for everyone.
Some of our favorites include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Elsa and Anna from Frozen, and the Toy Story characters.
How to Stay For Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours
If you’re planning on staying for Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours this holiday season, there are a few things you need to know.
First, tickets for this event are limited and tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to book early if you don’t want to miss out.
Second, be sure to bring plenty of warm clothing and snacks – it can get chilly at night in Florida! But with these tips in mind, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time at
Disney Very Merriest After Hours Tips
Arrive before 7pm
If you’re planning on attending Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours, be sure to arrive before 7 pm. This will give you plenty of time to enjoy the festive decorations and delicious treats that are available at the event.
Use Disney PhotoPass
If you’re visiting Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours, make sure to take advantage of the amazing PhotoPass photographers who are available at the event. Their photos are perfect for creating holiday cards and sharing with friends and family!
Shop Before 1 am
Usually, the Magic Kingdom shops do not close at the park closing, but in this instance they do. So, if you’re interested in doing some holiday shopping, make sure to do it before 1 am.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
One of the best tips I can give for Disney’s Very Merriest After Hours is to bring a reusable water bottle. This event takes place during the summer months, when it can get quite hot in Florida.
So, having a water bottle with you will help you stay hydrated and cool throughout the night. Plus, there are water fountains located throughout the park, so you can easily fill up your bottle when needed.
Prioritize Characters Vs Rides
It might be difficult to get to all the rides on your list and meet characters so make sure to have a game plan. If your child is dying to meet Mickey Mouse, make that a priority over getting on every ride. That way everyone leaves happy!
Two Firework Shows
Disney Enchantment is the current firework show that you will be able to see when Magic Kingdom closed before the after hours begin. You will be able to see that show.
You will also be able to see the special Christmas fireworks show!
Is Disney Very Merriest After Hours Worth It?
After a long day of fun at the Magic Kingdom, you might be wondering if it’s worth it to stay for the Very Merriest After Hours event. And we say, absolutely! For starters, the park is practically empty.
You can walk on any ride you want with little wait in line, and you can get some great photos without all the crowds in the background. Plus, there are special holiday treats and entertainment that you can only enjoy after hours. So if you’re looking to enjoy the Magic Kingdom in a whole new way, we say go for it! The Very Merriest After Hours event is definitely worth it.
You don’t have to spend the day in the park either! Since this event goes so late, you can spend the day relaxing and resting and head to Magic Kingdom right before 7 well-rested and refreshed!
Does Very Merriest Fit Your Trip?
Being a nighttime event and an additional cost to your trip, it’s a big decision whether to attend the after hours or not. Ultimately, it all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
If you love holiday decorations and spending time with your family during the festive season, then Very Merriest After Hours is perfect for you. There is something extra magical about exploring the park at night, when everything is lit up and decorated for Christmas.
But if you’re looking for a more low-key trip, or if you have small children who might not be able to stay up late, then this event might not be the best fit for you.
Alternatives To Very Merriest If You Care Most About Rides
Disney World is the Most Magical Place on Earth, but it can also be pretty crowded, especially during the holidays.
If you’re staying at a Disney Deluxe Hotel, you are eligible for the Disney World Deluxe Hotel Evening Hours. Check out the full guide I wrote about it.
This after hours event will have the least crowd and less exclusive events that will leave the focus more on the rides. By planning ahead and doing your research, you can enjoy all that Disney World has to offer without spending hours in line for rides.