As a Florida resident, most of my trips until the past few years were day trips. We would leave early in the morning and arrive around 10, not thinking much about the going-ons before we arrived. We rarely did multi-day trips and didn’t think about arriving early, even then.
Until I “discovered” the Rope Drop Ceremonies. Starting 10-15 minutes before the park opens, cast members come out in different shows, welcoming the day and opening the parks with typical Disney magic.
At the Magic Kingdom, I’ve seen both the Mayor and the Fire Chief host the show, leading the cast members into song, and welcoming the Train and the Family of the Day into the Main Street U.S.A. train station along with Mickey Mouse and many other characters. I always love watching the show and then heading into the parks a few minute before the parks claim to open. Yes, the parks open a few minutes before printed!
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’re invited to participate in the filming of a commercial, or whatever the director and actors happen to be shooting in the morning. Make sure to participate – the Citizens of Hollywood love to interact with guests!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom brings in the Mickey Mouse and friends to start the morning off with a big party, though for extra magic hours this past June, they didn’t actually have the show. No word on if the show is no longer running! EPCOT doesn’t have a big ceremony – sometimes music and characters, but nothing to set an alarm for, unless you’re hoping to beat the crowds to Soarin’!
Not many people know about the Epcot Rope Drop, Cast members drive out on Motor Scooters each carrying a flag from one of the World Showcase Countries while waving and honking. Then they play a little music about the various lands and that is about it. Not really much to this, but it’s still something.
If you’re headed to the parks, make sure to get there early to watch the Rope Drop Ceremonies. If you’re like me, you’ll be happy you did!
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