Walt Disney World Annual & Seasonal Events Schedule
Event dates & entertainment are subject to change. While every effort is made to update information, contact Walt Disney World direct at (407) W-DISNEY to confirm information before your trip.
| June 2013 |
| July 2013 | August 2013 | September 2013 |
| October 2013 | November 2013 | December 2013 |
| January 2014 | February 2014 | March 2014 | April 2014 | May 2014 |
Star Wars Weekends
May 17 - June 9, 2013 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Only)
Each summer Disney's Hollywood Studios turns into a giant Star Wars fan-fest on the weekends. There are up-close meet-and-greets for Walt Disney World guests with your favorite Star Wars characters and actors from the film series as well as interactive games, parades, music and fun for the whole family.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Disney Hollywood Studios
Possible Impact: Extreme crowds at Disney's Hollywood StudiosSounds Like Summer Concert Series
June 9 - July 27, 2013
You'll be dancing to classic Rock 'n' Roll hits under the skies of Epcot's open-air American Gardens Theater! Sounds Like Summer is an annual live concert series at Epcot theme park that brings together a talented collection of tribute bands to authentically recreate the classic hits of legendary musical icons. There are three shows nightly.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around the America pavilion of World Showcase in the evening.Car Masters Weekend
June 14 - 16, 2013
Attention all "Cars" fans! The gang from Radiator Springs will head to Downtown Disney West Side for a fun, family-friendly event that celebrates everything "Cars." There will be meet and greets with Lightning McQueen, Mater and Finn McMissile, and so much more.
Participation: Open to public
Location: Downtown Disney West Side
Impact: Minimal except in the area of the event.
Other Notable Holidays & Events During June
• Gay Days - Non-Disney sponsored event occurring yearly the anytime from the last few days of May through the first week of June. Actual dates vary yearly. Unofficial public and private events take place at Disney & other Orlando locations. Scheduled events in specific Walt Disney World parks on specific days. Possible extra crowds in specific parks, one each day. Possible early closings of some theme parks, water parks for private parties. Visit Gay Day's Official web site for additional info.
• Pollinator Day - June 5, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom. For more information on this event, visit the Disney Parks Blog.
• World Ocean Day - June 8, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at at Epcot's The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion. For more information on this event, visit the Disney Parks Blog.
• Father's Day - June 16, 2013 - Select Downtown Disney restaurants offer special meals for dad!• School Summer Break - Time varies across the country, but general occurs the second week in June until mid-August. Families with school-age children will be visiting Walt Disney World in greater numbers. This can result in heavy bookings at resorts and longer lines in parks and restaurants. During this time, there will be longer park hours with more frequent scheduling of fireworks, parades and some shows.
Independence Day
July 4
Get ready for a treat as Walt Disney World celebrates Fourth of July with a unique choice of fireworks shows at several different theme parks.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required for activities at the parks)
Location: World-wide
Impact: Heavy crowds in all parks except Animal Kingdom. Longer park hours and special firework shows.Sounds Like Summer Concert Series
June 9 - July 27, 2013
You'll be dancing to classic Rock 'n' Roll hits under the skies of Epcot's open-air American Gardens Theater! Sounds Like Summer is an annual live concert series at Epcot theme park that brings together a talented collection of tribute bands to authentically recreate the classic hits of legendary musical icons. There are three shows nightly.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around the America pavilion of World Showcase in the evening.Other Notable Holidays & Events During July
• Bastille Day - July 14, 2013 - Annual special family/kids activities at France Pavilion at Epcot.
• Tiger Day - July 25, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.• School Summer Break - Time varies across the country, but general occurs the second week in June until mid-August. Families with school-age children will be visiting Walt Disney World in greater numbers. This can result in heavy bookings at resorts and longer lines in parks and restaurants. During this time, there will be longer park hours with more frequent scheduling of fireworks, parades and some shows.
Dream Cars Weekend
August 30 - September 2, 2013
Collector and specialty cars of all generations will be parked among the palms and southwestern haciendas of Coronado Springs Resort on Labor Day weekend. The weekend also features entertainment, gourmet foods, all-you-can-eat buffets, dyno, NASCAR simulator, micro racing, automotive exhibitors, custom professional car builders and nightly parties. The Dream Builders Marketplace will be held in Coronado Springs' exhibition hall; here visitors can meet Dream Builders, see their custom creations and shop for the latest in automotive accessories and apparel. There is no admission for spectators except for a parking fee. Spectators are also welcome to participate in the Dream Cars Weekend Green Light Kickoff Party Friday 7pm-11pm and Moonlight Beach Party Saturday 7pm-11pm for an additional charge. The Night of Dreams street party Sunday 7pm-11pm is free. For more info and ticket information, visit www.dreamcarsweekend.com. The Mustang Club of America Grand National 2013 show will also be held this weekend at the Walt Disney World Speedway. Over 800 Mustangs and Fords are expected. For more info, visit www.MustangsattheMickyard.com.
Location: Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Impact: Heavier than usual crowds and bookings at the Coronado Springs Resort.Other Notable Holidays & Events During August
• Cotton-Top Tamarin Month - August 1-31, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
• Great Irish Hooley Festival - August 30-September 2, 2013 - This Labor Day weekend party at Raglan Road at Downtown Disney features 6 top Irish bands playing traditional and rock tunes, Irish Dance Workshops for the whole family, structured set dancing, Celtic face painting and authentic food and beverages. The Great Irish Hooley schedule of entertainment and events will be posted this summer at www.raglanroad.com. Call 407/938-0300 for information.
Free Dining
Most of September
Participation: Special discounted vacation package for specific dates Disney has released for the public to book in recent years; there is no guarantee Disney will offer the Free Dining vacation package each year!
Location: World-wide
Impact: Heavier than usual crowds for this time of year. Heavy restaurant bookings and lines at counter service. Click here for more information on Free Dining at Walt Disney World.Night of Joy
September 6 - 7, 2013
An annual celebration, the 2013 event will be held in the Magic Kingdom and features top contemporary Christian music performers. The long-running series has played to a combined audience in excess of 650,000.
Participation: Ticketed event open to public (Tickets on sale May 1, 2013)
Location: Magic Kingdom; 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. (in previous years at Disney's Hollywood Studios)
Impact: Possible early closings at Magic Kingdom on Friday and Saturday. Increased crowds in the Magic Kingdom beginning 4 p.m. The Ticket and Transportation Center monorail and ferry boat heading into the Magic Kingdom will also be very busy after 4 p.m. due to the arrival participants.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Select Nights September 10 - November 1, 2013
Adults and children can trick or treat their way through the Magic Kingdom while experiencing Halloween magic throughout the park with Disney characters, special parades and fireworks and more. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. This is a special ticket event occurring on select nights.
Participation: Ticketed event open to the public (Tickets on sale May 1, 2013)
Location: Magic Kingdom, 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Impact: Early closings at MK for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Crowds in the Magic Kingdom may be lesser on party days due to the early closure of the park. Guests with event tickets may begin entering the park as early as 4 p.m.Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
September 27 - November 11, 2013
Savor fine wines and delectable cuisine during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. This festival features live entertainment, guest chefs, culinary demonstrations, seminars, and winemaker dinners. Additionally Epcot Food and Wine Festival features the 2013 Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required; some separately ticketed events)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Extra crowds at Epcot, especially throughout World Showcase, mostly on weekends. Some Epcot venues may be restricted for ticketed events. Possible late evening traffic impact near and around Epcot on evening of
Other Notable Holidays & Events During September
• International Vulture Awareness Day - September 5, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
• International Manatee Day - September 7, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Epcot's The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion.
• Unleash the Villains - September 13, 2013 - The Disney villains are so excited about Friday the 13th, they're taking over Disney's Hollywood Studios! Join the fun for a night of mischief & a villainous dance party that last until the 13th hour (1 a.m.) as part of Limited Time Magic.
• The 13 Reflections of Evil Trading Event - September 13-15, 2013 - This pin and Vinylmation trading event takes place annually in World ShowPlace at Epcot and involves both registered events for a fee and a free public event. For 2013 Villains-inspired merchandise will be featured. Tickets for this event will go on sale via DisneyParksMerchandise.com beginning May 13 at 13:00 hours or 1:00 p.m. EST. Get a sneak peek.
• Dapper Dan Day - September 21, 2013 - Inspired by the original Disney park designer's illustrations, which often featured extremely well dressed guests enjoying the park, this unofficial Disney event invites park guests to don elegant fashions from vintage-inspired to contemporary chic and visit the park with other stylish guests. Dapper Day is not a Disney sponsored event and guests do not have to participate.
• Elephant Day - September 26, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Halloween/Fall Events
October 1 - 31, 2013
There's just so much to do at Walt Disney World during the Halloween season. In addition to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, special parades, decorations and fireworks in the parks, there's lots to do on Halloween day at the Disney resorts too. And, at Downtown Disney the Halloween/Fall season is celebrated the entire month of October with special photo spots, pumpkin patches, an Oktoberfest band and more.Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Select Nights September 10 - November 1, 2013
Adults and children can trick or treat their way through the Magic Kingdom while experiencing Halloween magic throughout the park with Disney characters, special parades and fireworks and more. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. This is a special ticket event occurring on select nights.
Participation: Ticketed event open to the public
Location: Magic Kingdom, 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Impact: Early closings at MK for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Crowds in the Magic Kingdom may be lesser on party days due to the early closure of the park. Guests with event tickets may begin entering the park as early as 4 p.m.Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
September 27 - November 11, 2013
Savor fine wines and delectable cuisine during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. This festival features live entertainment, guest chefs, culinary demonstrations, seminars, and winemaker dinners. Additionally Epcot Food and Wine Festival features the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required; some separately ticketed events)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Extra crowds at Epcot, especially throughout World Showcase, mostly on weekends. Some Epcot venues may be restricted for ticketed events. Possible late evening traffic impact near and around Epcot on evening ofThe Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend
October 4 – 6, 2013
The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 10-Miler Weekend, takes place at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park during the Epcot Food & Wine Festival. Brave dark and ghostly streets haunted by Disney villains. Your commemorative medal announces your towering triumph as you ride thrilling Disney's Hollywood Studios attractions till 3:00 a.m.! 2013 race registration opened February 12, 2013.
Participation: Registered Event
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports and Disney's Hollywood Studios
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by participants. This is a late-night event. There may be some traffic issues during the race.Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic
October 18 and 19, 2013
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin showcases a passion for food and beverage during the Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic. Elevate your knowledge of wine appreciation in a series of beverage seminars or just enjoy great food. Live entertainment is included.
Participation: Open to public
Location: Swan and Dolphin hotels
Impact: Generally the same as Food & Wine Festival.Other Notable Holidays & Events During October
• Epcot's Birthday - October 1, 2013 - Opening Oct 1, 1982, the park turns 31 this birthday. No festivities are planned yet.
• Magic Kingdom's Birthday - October 1, 2013 - Opening Oct. 1, 1971, the park turns 42 this birthday. No festivities are planned yet.
• Gartner Symposium - October 6 - 10, 2013 - The largest annual symposium of CIOs and senior IT leaders be held at the Swan, Dolphin, Beach Club, and Yacht Club. Deluxe resorts and restaurants in the Epcot area should be booked solid during the event.
• Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival - October 18 & 19, 2013 - a 2,500-year-old Chinese boat racing sport that takes place on Village Lake at Downtown Disney West Side, usually on a Saturday.
• Bat Day - October 31, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
General Tips: November is a transition month. There will still be fall and Halloween activities during the first part of the month, and then celebrations will switch to Christmas and other holiday activities. Pay close attention to the dates of the events this month.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Select Nights September 10 - November 1, 2013
Adults and children can trick or treat their way through the Magic Kingdom while experiencing Halloween magic throughout the park with Disney characters, special parades and fireworks and more. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. This is a special ticket event occurring on select nights.
Participation: Ticketed event open to the public (Tickets on sale May 1, 2013)
Location: Magic Kingdom, 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.
Impact: Early closings at MK for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Crowds in the Magic Kingdom may be lesser on party days due to the early closure of the park. Guests with event tickets may begin entering the park as early as 4 p.m.Epcot International Food and Wine Festival
September 27 - November 11, 2013
Savor fine wines and delectable cuisine during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. This festival features live entertainment, guest chefs, culinary demonstrations, seminars, and winemaker dinners. Additionally Epcot Food and Wine Festival features the 2013 Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required; some separately ticketed events)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Extra crowds at Epcot, especially throughout World Showcase, mostly on weekends. Some Epcot venues may be restricted for ticketed events. Possible late evening traffic impact near and around Epcot on evening ofDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon
November 8 - November 9, 2013
One of the really unique features of this race is that it is run at night. In fact, this race will quite possibly be the only half-marathon run under the stars. The weekend will also include a two-day expo, a 5K family fun run, kids races and a lot of special Disney touches. The half-marathon will start at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and finish inside Epcot with an exclusive post-race party at the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
Participation: Registered Event
Location: World-wide
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by participants. This is a late-night event and should not greatly effect park availability, but may have some traffic issues during the race.Festival of the Masters
November 8 - 10, 2013
Nearly 150 award-winning artists from across the country showcase their wares throughout Downtown Disney, including painters, photographers, sculptors and jewelry designers and more. The three-day festival features chalk art, live music, specialty foods and family-friendly activities.
Participation: Open to the public
Location: Downtown Disney
Impact: Possible heavy crowds at Downtown Disney for the duration of the event. May create parking issues at Downtown Disney.Old Spice Classic
November 28, 29 & December 1, 2013
This Division/Men's Holiday Tournament will feature eight college basketball teams and 12 exhilarating games played over Thanksgiving weekend at the HP Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Each team will compete in one game per day, advancing through a bracket-tournament format. Old Spice Classic bragging rights for 2012 go to the Gonzaga University!
Participation: Ticketed Event
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by participants. Should not greatly effect park availability, but may have some traffic issues.Holiday Happenings & Events
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
Walt Disney World Resort is all aglitter during the holiday season with dazzling lights, spirited song and even snow flurries. Throughout the Walt Disney World there is caroling, enhanced parades, tree lighting ceremonies, visits by Santa, amazing decorations, special dining and ticketed events.The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
This holiday light display on the Disney's Hollywood Studios Streets of America, features millions of sparkling holiday bulbs designed by Arkansas businessman and philanthropist Jennings Osborne as a gift to his daughter and the guests of Walt Disney World Resort.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around Avenue of the Americas.Candlelight Processional
Late November - Late December, 2013
A breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story in words and music complete with a 50 piece orchestra, choir and celebrity guest narrator. Candlelight Processional Dining Packages will be available.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required) A separate ticketed dinner package is available that includes reserved seating. Click the link above for details.
Location: Epcot
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around the America pavilion before and during performance times.Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Select Nights November 8 - Late December, 2013
The Magic Kingdom will be transformed into a winter wonderland for this holiday fete. Snow will descend on Main Street, Mickey and friends will be garbed in seasonal apparel, and Cinderella Castle will once again shimmer in ice as special holiday fireworks, parades and shows await. This is a special ticket event occurring on select nights.
Participation: Ticketed event
Location: Magic Kingdom
Impact: Early closings at MK for ticketed events. Possible heavier than usual dinner crowds at MK restaurants and resorts.Other Notable Holidays & Events During November
• Jersey Week -First or Second Week in November. New Jersey Teachers Convention is held during this time, and schools in the state are out of session. Many Jersey families choose to vacation at Walt Disney World during this time resulting in decreased availability at resorts. Possible extra crowds at all parks.
• Rhino Day - November 12, 2013 - Part of Disney's year-long series of events that encourage families to connect with nature. Special activities and learning opportunities will be available to families and kids at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
• Thanksgiving - November 28, 2013. Restaurants will offer special menus for the day. Likely extreme crowds on Thanksgiving weekend, especially at MK; heavy bookings at sit-down restaurants.
Old Spice Classic
November 28, 29 & December 1, 2013
This Division/Men's Holiday Tournament will feature eight college basketball teams and 12 exhilarating games played over Thanksgiving weekend at the HP Field House at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Each team will compete in one game per day, advancing through a bracket-tournament format. Old Spice Classic bragging rights for 2012 go to the Gonzaga University!
Participation: Ticketed Event
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by participants. Should not greatly effect park availability, but may have some traffic issues.ABC Filming of MK Christmas Parade
Early December
Participation: Public (theme park admission required). Registration for spectators is necessary.
Location: Magic Kingdom
Impact: Extreme crowds in the Magic Kingdom, especially around Main Street; some shows and parades may be canceled. Main Street will be closed off during one of the taping days from parking opening through about 5 p.m. and other sections of the Magic Kingdom will also be roped off, causing delays through the afternoon. Visit our Holiday Activities & Events page for specific info on the parade taping.Pop Warner Sports Tournaments
December 6 - 14, 2013
Each December, Pop Warner championship tournaments are held at ESPN's Wide World of Sports for football in the Pop Warner Super Bowl and in Cheer & Dance National Championships. Some public exhibitions may be scheduled and guests can expect heavy bookings by youth groups at some resorts, especially All-Stars.
Participation: Some public exhibitions may be scheduled
Location: Wide World of Sports
Impact: Heavy bookings at some resorts by youth groups, especially All-Stars resorts and some moderate resorts that are offered to these groups at a discount; possible increase in park crowds during evening hours.Holiday Happenings & Events
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
Walt Disney World Resort is all aglitter during the holiday season with dazzling lights, spirited song and even snow flurries. Throughout the Walt Disney World there is caroling, enhanced parades, tree lighting ceremonies, visits by Santa, amazing decorations, special dining and ticketed events.The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
This holiday light display on the Disney's Hollywood Studios Streets of America, features millions of sparkling holiday bulbs designed by Arkansas businessman and philanthropist Jennings Osborne as a gift to his daughter and the guests of Walt Disney World Resort.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around Avenue of the Americas.Candlelight Processional
Late November - Late December, 2013
A breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story in words and music complete with a 50 piece orchestra, choir and celebrity guest narrator. Candlelight Processional Dining Packages will be available.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required) A separate ticketed dinner package is available that includes reserved seating. Click the link above for details.
Location: Epcot
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around the America pavilion before and during performance times.Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party
Select Nights November 8 - Late December, 2013
The Magic Kingdom will be transformed into a winter wonderland for this holiday fete. Snow will descend on Main Street, Mickey and friends will be garbed in seasonal apparel, and Cinderella Castle will once again shimmer in ice as special holiday fireworks, parades and shows await. This is a special ticket event occurring on select nights.
Participation: Ticketed event (Tickets on sale May 1, 2013)
Location: Magic Kingdom
Impact: Early closings at MK for ticketed events. Possible heavier than usual dinner crowds at MK restaurants and resorts.Christmas Week
Participation: Public
Location: World-wide
Impact: Heavy booking at resorts for end of December. Extreme crowds on Christmas week and between Christmas and New Year's Day. Resort prices at their most expensive.New Year's Eve
December 31
From celebrations in the theme parks to upscale dining experiences and dancing on Disney's BoardWalk, take your pick of how you want to ring in the New Year.
Participation: Public & ticketed
Location: World-wide
Impact: Heavy booking at resorts. Extreme crowds at all parks. Cirque du Soleil and Disney Quest at Downtown Disney restricted for ticketed events. Atlantic Dance Hall at Boardwalk restricted for ticketed event. Extended Park hours and special fireworks.
Other Notable Holidays & Events Occurring During December
• ESPNU College Football Awards show - December 5, 2013 - This event will be held at the Atlantic Dance Hall and brings some of the biggest names in college football to the BoardWalk area. Fans in the area have the best chance of seeing some of their favorite stars on the evenings of December 4th and 5th in the BoardWalk area.
Holiday Happenings & Events
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
Walt Disney World Resort is all aglitter during the holiday season with dazzling lights, spirited song and even snow flurries. Throughout the Walt Disney World there is caroling, enhanced parades, tree lighting ceremonies, visits by Santa, amazing decorations, special dining and ticketed events.The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
November 8, 2013 - Early January, 2014
This holiday light display on the Disney's Hollywood Studios Streets of America, features millions of sparkling holiday bulbs designed by Arkansas businessman and philanthropist Jennings Osborne as a gift to his daughter and the guests of Walt Disney World Resort.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Impact: Heavy crowds in and around Avenue of the Americas.Walt Disney World Marathon
January 9 - 12, 2014
The Walt Disney World Marathon is an annual 26.2-mile adventure that winds through all four Disney theme parks, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom. The weekend also features a half marathon, a 5K, kids races, a three-day health expo, and more. Congratulations to Adriano Bastos and Renee High, winners in the 2013 men's and 2013 women's divisions. 2014 race registration opens Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 12 noon EST.
Participation: Registered Event
Location: Property-wide
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by marathon participants and early morning traffic impact on race day.Other Notable Holidays & Events During January
• Chinese New Year - January 31, 2014 - Year of the Horse! Annual special entertainment & kids activities at China in Epcot.
• Youth Group Competitions and Exhibitions - Various times January through March. Youth activities (i.e. sports, dance, cheerleading, singing, bands) may be scheduled in public areas. These activities may create heavy bookings at some resorts, especially All-Stars, by youth groups, where the noise levels may be significantly increased. Possible random closure of certain park attractions for use as event venues such as Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Disney's Princess Half Marathon Weekend
February 21 - 23, 2014
Join your fellow princesses in a royal quest that will take you through 13.1 miles of the Walt Disney World Resort. Also included are Disney's "Disney Family Fun Run 5K," "Disney's Kids' Races' Races" and "Fit for a Princess Expo". Congratulations to Rachel Booth of Mandeville, La., the winner of the 2013 race. 2014 race registration opens Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at 12 noon ET.
Participation: Registered Event
Location: World-wide
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by marathon participants and early morning traffic impact on race day.Atlanta Braves Spring Training
Select Dates February - March, 2014
The Braves will return to Champion Stadium at ESPN's Wide World of Sports Complex in 2013 for their 16th season of spring training featuring some of the best teams in baseball.Other Notable Holidays & Events During February
• Big Game Day - February 2, 2014 - Special "Big Game" parties or menus will be offered at select locations.
• Valentine's Day - February 14, 2014 - Walt Disney World resort may offer special meals to celebrate the occasion.
• President's Weekend - Third weekend in February - While no specific events are planned, this is traditionally the start of spring break season. Possible heavy booking at resorts. Extra crowds possible in all parks. Longer park hours with more frequent scheduling of fireworks, parades and some shows.
• Youth Group Competitions and Exhibitions - Various times January through March. Youth activities (i.e. sports, dance, cheerleading, singing, bands) may be scheduled in public areas. These activities may create heavy bookings at some resorts, especially All-Stars, by youth groups, where the noise levels may be significantly increased. Possible random closure of certain park attractions for use as event venues such as Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Atlanta Braves Spring Training
Select Dates February - March, 2014
The Braves will return to Champion Stadium at ESPN's Wide World of Sports Complex in 2013 for their 16th season of spring training featuring some of the best teams in baseball.Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
March 5 - May 18, 2014
Epcot's Future World and World Showcase will bloom with more than 30 million colorful blossoms, interactive garden activities for kids and workshops with national gardening experts during this annual spring festival. Also during the festival is the Flower Power Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park ticket required)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Possible extra crowds at Epcot. Additional live entertainment at World ShowcaseOther Notable Holidays & Events During March
• Mardi Gras - March 4, 2014 - Annual mini-float parade (themed golf carts decorated by resort cast members) at Disney's Port Orleans Resort (both French Quarter and Riverside) on Fat Tuesday. The parade features music, select Disney characters & beads and candy are given out along the parade route. Ask for parade time at front desk.
• Saint Patrick's Day - March 17, 2014 - Raglan Road restaurant and Downtown Disney throws a yearly celebration with live entertainment, dancing, face painting and more!
• Spring Break - Mid-March - Mid-April, 2014 - During this crowded time of the year, Disney employs a number of strategies to disperse crowds, including offering additional entertainment at alternative parks other than the Magic Kingdom and opening or offering seasonal restaurants or dining options.
• Youth Group Competitions and Exhibitions - Various times January through March. Youth activities (i.e. sports, dance, cheerleading, singing, bands) may be scheduled in public areas. These activities may create heavy bookings at some resorts, especially All-Stars, by youth groups, where the noise levels may be significantly increased. Possible random closure of certain park attractions for use as event venues such as Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
March 5 - May 18, 2014
Epcot's Future World and World Showcase are blooming with more than 30 million colorful blossoms, interactive garden activities for kids and workshops with national gardening experts during this annual spring festival. Also during the festival is the Flower Power Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park ticket required)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Possible extra crowds at Epcot. Additional live entertainment at World ShowcaseEaster
April 20, 2014
Participation: Open to public
Location: World-wide; some events at some resorts and Downtown Disney
Impact: Likely extreme crowds in all parks, especially at Magic Kingdom. Longer park hours with more frequent scheduling of fireworks, parades and some shows.Other Notable Holidays & Events During April
• Animal Kingdom's Birthday - April 22, 2014 - Opening April 22, 1998, the park turns 16 this birthday. No special festivities are scheduled.
• Earth Day - April 22, 2014 - Animal Kingdom celebrates Earth Day with "Party for the Planet" events held throughout the park and inside Conservation Station at Rafiki's Planet Watch.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
March 5 - May 18, 2014
Epcot's Future World and World Showcase are blooming with more than 30 million colorful blossoms, interactive garden activities for kids and workshops with national gardening experts during this annual spring festival. Also during the festival is the Flower Power Concert Series.
Participation: Open to public (theme park ticket required)
Location: Epcot
Impact: Extra crowds at Epcot. Additional live entertainment at World ShowcaseExpedition Everest Challenge 5K
May, 2014
Just after sunset, teams of two take on the exotic terrain of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park in a fun, competitive 5K run, obstacle course, and scavenger hunt.
Participation: Registered Event
Location: ESPN Wide World of Sports and Animal Kingdom Park
Impact: Possible heavy resort bookings by challenge participants.Star Wars Weekends
Mid May - Mid June, 2014 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Only)
Each summer Disney's Hollywood Studios turns into a giant Star Wars fan-fest on the weekends. There are up-close meet-and-greets for Walt Disney World guests with your favorite Star Wars characters and actors from the film series as well as interactive games, parades, music and fun for the whole family.
Participation: Open to public (theme park admission required)
Location: Disney Hollywood Studios
Possible Impact: Extreme crowds at Disney's Hollywood StudiosOther Notable Holidays & Events During May
• Disney's Hollywood Studio's Birthday - May 1, 2014 - Opening May 1, 1989, the park turns 25 this birthday. No festivities are planned as yet.
• Cinco de Mayo - May 5, 2014 - Annual special family/kids activities at Mexico Pavilion at Epcot.
• Mother's Day - May 11, 2014 - Special meals and deals are offered throughout Walt Disney World Resort.
• Norway's Constitution Day - May 17, 2014 - Annual special family/kids activities at Epcot's Norway pavilion.
• Gay Days - Non-Disney sponsored event occurring yearly anytime from the last few days of May through the first week of June. Actual dates vary yearly. Unofficial public and private events take place at Disney & other Orlando locations. Scheduled events in specific Walt Disney World parks on specific days. Possible extra crowds in specific parks, one each day. Possible early closings of some theme parks, water parks for private parties. Visit Gay Day's Official web site for additional info.