After Hours Events - Ask Questions and Share Experiences Here

[mrjack5]

I’m in this same boat. They are offered at DHS and MK during our late July trip. I’d probably want to adjust my days around if we did it since we are rope droppers. And not sure yet if we are going for 7 or 9 nights.

We’ve never done any sort of after hours event. How do these compare to the typical resort guest evening hours, which we also have not done, lol. We were slated to do a DVC one at EPCOT in June of 2020…. And got cancelled. We live in AZ and only make it to WDW every 4-5 years so I’m tempted to do all the things. But I also know we tend to be early birds vs night owls. But my kids are now 14 and 15. Maybe I just buy it for them haha!

Few differences talking only Magic Kingdom below

After hours = 3 hours long,"hard ticket"(lower crowds) event, they give out free sodas, waters, snacks, popcorn, mickey ice cream bars, fruit bars etc from different snack stands around magic kingdom. There are TWO fireworks shows regular Happily ever after and a second show only during After Hours "Enchantment". We have done after hours twice and it was the highlight of both trips. Best part is being able to sit on the ground right in front of the castle and watch Enchantment, no pointy elbows, no people fighting for a good spot, just walk up with soda and snacks in hand 20 minutes before the show starts and enjoy fireworks sitting on the ground. Limited ticket even so crowds are low and it is one of our favorite events to do. Can't speak for other parks After hours. Some planners advise taking a rest day and skip buying a park ticket then coming to magic kingdom at 7pm when your after hours ticket allows entry.

Only thing I would caution is check if your kids/family members can stay up late 10PM-1AM then you have to travel back to your resort so budget that travel time as well.

Deluxe resorts Extended evening hours = 2 hours long, no free sodas/snacks, no extra fireworks show anyone staying at a eligible Deluxe resort is eligible. Only certain nights.