Celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World

Planning to spend the Independence Day at Walt Disney World this year?  You won’t be alone!  The week of July 4th is historically one of the most crowded weeks of the year for Walt Disney World, but don’t let that scare you away!  With a little planning you can still have an enjoyable vacation, catch some amazing fireworks, and celebrate the spirit of America in one of the most magical places on earth!  So, without further ado, I bring you our top tips for celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World!

1.  Plan Your Days Accordingly
It is normal to want to spend Independence Day at Magic Kingdom or Epcot, but don’t!  Find a reliable park crowds calendar (we recommend TouringPlans.com) and plan your week carefully to avoid being in the most crowded park each day. This leads us in to our second tip…

2.  Spend the Fourth of July at Hollywood Studios
For the past several years Hollywood Studios has featured fireworks on Independence Day behind the Sorcerer Hat/Chinese Theatre.  They are lovely, and a great way to avoid the intense crowds that are bound to be at Magic Kingdom.  Additionally, you can dine at 50’s Prime Time Cafe for some down-home cooking and catch Sam Eagle’s Salute to All Nations, But Mostly America nod in Muppet Vision 3-D.

3.  View the Magic Kingdom Fireworks on July 3rd
You don’t have to miss fireworks at Magic Kingdom by not attending on the 4th!  You can catch Disney’s Celebrate America – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky fireworks presentation on July 3rd instead.  Yes, it is still going to be crowded, but not nearly as badly as it will be on Independence Day.  Trust me, this special fireworks show is not to be missed.

4.  Experience The American Adventure
Spend some time this Independence Week celebrating America in a few ways that are unique to Walt Disney World.  While the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom is fantastic for older children and adults, it can be quite boring for little ones, so I recommend taking them to see The American Adventure at Epcot for a show that’s a bit more lively.  While there, be sure to catch the Voices of Liberty, as they sing beautiful a capella renditions of American Folk Music favorites and standards, and browse through The American Heritage Gallery.  Oh, and don’t forget to take a trip on Spaceship Earth!

5.  Enjoy a Fun Meal
There are two signature meal experiences at Fort Wilderness and a standard meal at Wilderness Lodge that are sure to help you feel patriotic!  Mickey’s Backyard BBQ (located at Fort Wilderness) is an All-You-Can-BBQ spread held outdoors under a pavillion, complete with dancin’, and character meetin’.  Even Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Chip ‘n Dale join in the fun for autographs and photos.  Also at Fort Wilderness you can enjoy the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, a hilarious show that is fun for the whole family.  Dine family style on fried chicken, ribs and more while you take in the crazy antics of the Pioneer Hall Players in this 2-hour dinner show.   Please note, both of these dining options will require 2 credits on the Disney Dining Plan, and reservations are highly, highly recommended.

Over at Wilderness Lodge you can enjoy a fun meal for at Whispering Canyon Cafe!  This restaurant serves up family fun for breakfast, lunch and dinner!  Throughout the meal little ones can take part in stick horse races, and everyone can get in on a little sing-a-long fun.  Don’t forget to ask for ketchup!  This location is a single table service credit on the Disney Dining Plan, and reservations are highly recommended.

Do you have any other tips or favorite activities for celebrating the Fourth of July at Walt Disney World?  If so, we’d love to hear them!  Simply comment below!

And be sure to check out other great posts on The Patriotic Side of Disney!