How are Grand Marshalls Picked?

[We-Luv-Disney]

I have always wondered this. I am sure someone here knows.

 

[Feralpeg]

You just need to be in the right place, at the right time and talk to the right CM. Seriously, there is no rhyme or reason to it. It is purely a matter of luck.

 

[Steamboat Marti]

It is the one thing in the Magic Kingdom that is truly random. I tried to set it up for my husband when he turned 40 this year. I called and emailed corporate WDW as well as my sales rep for the DVC. Every single person said "it is random and chosen on the day of the parade". My DVC rep also stated that he tried to do this for a "Make A Wish" child and his request was denied. He was told that they keep it random so that it can be magical for any person who is chosen.

P.S. We were the Grand Marshalls of the parade on his 40th birthday... we were in the right place at the right time and we chosen. Talk about dumb luck!!!!!

 

[DeirdreTours]

So....where was the place and what was the time?

 

[TheRustyScupper]

1) The tried-and-true selection method.
2) Eenie-Meenie-Minie-Mo, On the float, this family goes.

Now, do not let the secret out. It has taken decades to perfect the scientific method (when such families as Make-A-Wish are not present).

 

[kathleena]

We were just grand marshalls on 8/25.

We had booked a tour at the MK and arrived about 8:10. We checked at the entrance where they were letting the breakfast ADRs in and asked if we could go in to check in for the tour, or if we needed to wait. They said go right in.

We checked in, got water, nametags etc. Even used the restroom. Went to Main St and had our photopass pic taken and started walking up to the other end to have more done.

The park was not yet open. They hadn't done the opening ceremonies yet.

While walking towards the castle - a CM approached us from the left. Asked us if we were with anyone else (no), were we celebrating anything special while there (10 year old birthday) and what were our plans for the day. At that point I realized what the CM would be asking.

We arranged to meet - went to have the photos taken and walked back. The CM was now talking to a second family.

We met the CM at the appointed time and place and parade was cancelled due to a thunderstorm. CM scheduled us for the next day instead and we went back and were in that parade.

Rode in Walt's car. It was wonderful.

CM told us that they look for "the happiest people in the park" because they want "the happiest people in the park" in the front of the parade waving to all the other people.

My suggestion is - hang out on Main Street and look happy.