Earlier this month, Disney confirmed the return of Disney After Hours, a special ticketed event that allows guests to enjoy the parks for three hours after closing. During this time, guests can enjoy shorter wait times for attractions, free snacks and, if you're headed to Magic Kingdom, the return of the nighttime fireworks spectacular Disney Enchantment.
The Disney Enchantment nighttime fireworks spectacular was created specially for Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary. It featured fireworks, projection mapping onto the castle, classic and reimagined Disney songs as well as an original song by 7-time Grammy award-winning songwriter Philip Lawrence. It ran from October 2021 until April 2023.
The show was fine, but as a 50th-anniversary celebration, it felt lacking. Many criticized that it failed to show the significant history of Walt Disney World within the show. In August 2022, it was updated to include a new opening sequence featuring Walt Disney, Roy O. Disney, Mickey Mouse, and classic park attractions.
Even with the addition though, the show fell short. It just felt like it lacked energy and excitement. It didn't provide that Disney magic.
So in April 2023, much to fans' delight, Disney replaced Disney Enchantment with its predecessor, Happily Ever After.
But for those who were sad to see Disney Enchantment go, you'll get another chance to see it during Disney After Hours. Disney describes the show:
"Disney Enchantment, presented by Pandora Jewelry, is truly a celebration of magic, imagination, joy and hope for all who carry dreams in their hearts. Throughout your journey, favorite Disney Characters like Raya, Moana and Joe Gardner from Soul will join as you explore a world of wonder filled with friendship, love and fun. And if darkness tries to hold you back, you’ll discover you only have to look within to find the power to believe and make your dreams come true. The magic has been inside you all along!"
The cool thing about Disney Enchantment being shown during Disney After Hours is that those with a ticket to the event can actually enjoy both nighttime spectaculars. Disney After Hours guests can actually enter the park at 7:00 p.m., three hours before the event actually begins. This means you can technically enjoy a double feature as you'll be able to catch Happily Ever After before the park's regular closure and then Disney Enchantment during Disney After Hours.
Check out the dates and details for Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom here.