2025 has some big things in store for Disney, and that can firmly be said about the theme parks. However, many fans might be disappointed after a recent update from the park's first big event.
From Bluey to a free Disney Dining Plan promotion, Disney has a lot on the docket this year. However, fans are already storming the castle as the first After Hours event at the Magic Kingdom is already sold out before 2024 has even packed its bags.
After Hours or After January?
If you've never been to an After Hours event at any Disney Park, there's truly a lot to enjoy. Similar to holiday events around Halloween and Christmas, the extended hours at The Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom bring an extra ounce of Disney magic to anyone's trip... for a price.
Guests can ride their favorite attractions with shorter wait times, experience exclusive Character Meet and Greets, and even special food and drink items included with the price of a ticket. The question is, what is Disney doing to warrant a $175-$185 price tag?
Since the first (and already sold out) date is January 6, 2025, Disney's New Year's events have already come and gone. So why pay extra for essentially extra time in your favorite park? Two words, friends: limited engagement.
It all goes back to that age-old question, "What are you really paying for?" While those enjoying the After Hours events do get a handful of additional experiences, they're paying for crowd control in one of the most packed places on earth.
The Walt Disney World Resort is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. Even on a low day, guests can end up waiting over half an hour just to ride the most basic of rides (looking at you, Small World). Since all magic comes at a price, guests tired of slogging through the crowds are clearly more than happy to spend a little more.
To be fair, The Magic Kingdom is the quintessential park at Walt Disney World. However, even this dedicated Disney buff isn't sure about spending nearly $200 in addition to the price of a regular resort room and park ticket.
While Disneyland's After Hours events like '90s Nite and Sweetheart's Night come with additional theming and rare characters, a basic park experience with fewer crowds and extra popcorn thrown in feels like the bare minimum compared to what many of us are used to. Hopefully, this is just Disney's way of keeping the magic a secret until after night one.
Potential guests can book all their visits, before and after regular hours, on the Disney Parks sites!