Sparkling lights and Electro-synthe-magnetic Musical Sounds: The Main Street Electrical Parade

I've seen a lot of parades in my years of being a Disney traveler and I must admit that one of my true favorites is the Main Street Electrical Parade. I loved it as a child and I am so very happy that in 2010 it returned to Walt Disney World for a third run.

Wonderland Comes To Life After Dark

Guests at the Magic Kingdom line up early (hit your spot 30-60 minutes prior) to get a great spot along the parade route. That route runs from Town Square up Main Street, over the bridge to Liberty Square, through Frontierland and ends next to Splash Mountain. It's worth noting that readers who have been testing the new FastPass+ system have reported back to us that a designated viewing area for the Main Street Electrical Parade can be reserved as one of your daily passes. Shortly before the parade kicks off the ambient lighting in the area is dimmed and guests are treated to a brilliant 20 minute show of colorful, kinetic twinkling lights and Electro-synthe-magnetic sound.

A Prince Searches for His Princess

Sparkling floats represent nine different parade units of spinning dancers and familiar Disney characters showcasing scenes from their feature films. 80 performers join the processional of fan favorites from Pinocchio, Peter Pan, Pete's Dragon, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, Casey Jr's Circus Engine with Mickey & Minnie, and a beautiful tribute To Honor America. The music, which will get stuck in your head, is an underlying tune called Baroque Hoedown that's overlaid by popular tunes from the featured films.

Elliot Puffs Smoke and Disappears Along the Parade Route

Feel like watching the parade right now? Check out this fantastic video from my friend John (AKA the amazing Chef BigFatPanda over at the Disney Food Blog). He claims that this video is his "Love Letter tribute" to this classic staple of a pure Disney magic. This video has some fantastic shots from the very best Main Street USA vantage points for parade watching including some stunning views from the balcony of the train station.

Be sure to check the daily Times Guide at Magic Kingdom for showtimes during your visit, and be aware that the parade is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. If there are two shows on the night you want to view it, the second will most likely be less crowded.

Do you love the Main Street Electrical Parade? What's your favorite part? Leave a comment and let me know!