This is typical of Disney, they schedule an event/parade to end the day, ie Wishes, IllumiNations, Fantasmic. These events take place at the official closing time. Not sure how this works if you decide to skip the "event" and go to a ride. My guess is that if the park closes at 9 pm and you walked up to Space Mountain at 8:55 then they would still let you get in line. These events draw people away from the rides and allow them to start to close down. Anyone know any different?