parades/fireworks

[Suzflee]

I just read the thread about where to view parades but not many replied. Anyone else care to help me in our final days of planning (Love the countdown!) on where to watch the parades or fireworks in all of the parks?

Can one person stake out a spot and let the rest of the family continue doing rides? Would I really need to get there an hour early the week of March 7th?

Everyone has been so helpful! A big thanks to all!!!

 

[HANDYMOM]

The Unofficial Guide to WDW and TourguideMike.com have excellent info on this. The way these two sources describe it, it's easier than you think to get the best viewing spots that actually allow you to view the parade and then take advantage of the small lines while everyone else watches.

 

[kilee]

People are pushy at parade times, that is the bottom line. It doesn't matter if you lay out a blanket, towel, coats, ect. People will move them, sit on them, or stand on them. Even if you have another person holding the spot. I think if Disney were ever needed to be involved-- I think they would say you couldn't hold all those spots (They say it during Fantasmic)--- but that's just my theory.

Saying that--if you all want to sit and have a good view-- then you'll need to arrive at least 40-60 minutes early. I swear the crowds come out of the woodwork for the parades. You will think it's an "empty day"-- a lot of people to hop over to see these parades so I think that is part of it.

We always just grab a seat about 50 minutes ahead. For us, it's great downtime. We usually get a snack and just people watch while we are waiting. In MK personally I like to watch the parades and fireworks from Main Street. We found a great spot by Casey's that has a corner and a garabage can-- just enough room between the 2 for my family!! In MGM we like to watch the parade from right infront of the photo shop. It's near the end of the route. Illuminations-- we like to watch from Japan. AK parade-- we've never been able to catch it-- hoping to next time.

 

[MaryKatesMom]

Sometimes the best spots just happen. Several times we had no intention of watching the parade, instead using the time to ride the attractions. We always seem to end up in Frontierland where the spots are much easier to attain and we end up watching the parade last minute.

Same thing with MGM. There will always be some last minute spots that happen when the CM's put up the ropes. It isn't important to me to have a special spot.

However, ever once in awhile I really want to watch a parade in MK on Main St. If it is important to you then you will need to stake out your spot earlier. I send my husband to Main St. an hour at least depending on the crowd. He is happy to sit there while I ride a couple of last minute rides with the girls.

 

[Suzflee]

Kilee,
Thanks for the input. I'm trying not to overplan as I think spontaneity will be good.
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