The Ultimate Disney World Summer 2025 Guide: Starlight Parade, Villains, Cool Kid Summer & 50 Insider Secrets!
Ready for your most magical Disney World trip ever?
This summer, Walt Disney World is bursting with new parades, shows, treats, and behind-the-scenes secrets—and we’ve got the inside scoop! Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, this guide will help you unlock the best of Disney in 2025.
🎧 Want even more tips, stories, and 50 juicy Cast Member secrets? Listen to Disney DNA Podcast Episode 683 for the full experience!
Starlight Parade: Dream the Night Away
Magic Kingdom’s newest nighttime parade is almost here!
Disney’s Starlight Parade: Dream the Night Away dazzles with the Blue Fairy, Peter Pan, Wendy, Asha from Wish, the Encanto family, Elsa, Disney Royals, Miguel and Pepita from Coco, and Moana. Expect nods to the Main Street Electrical Parade and SpectroMagic with cutting-edge lighting and music.
When does it debut?
Disney hasn’t announced the exact date, but all signs point to July 2025. Stay tuned to our podcast and blog for the latest updates!
Villains: Unfairly Ever After at Hollywood Studios
Calling all Disney Villains fans!
Starting May 27, 2025, Sunset Showcase hosts Villains: Unfairly Ever After—a bold new show with a fractured Magic Mirror theme, dramatic murals, and daily performances starting at 10:00 am. No extra ticket needed!
Cool Kid Summer at Animation Courtyard
Hollywood Studios just got cooler!
From May 27 to September 1, Animation Courtyard features new “Get Animated!” banners, updated artwork, and a refreshed Disney Jr. entrance. The “Get Animated” indoor experience offers crafts, games, and surprise character visits—perfect for families!
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: 2025 Ticket Tips
October 31 is already sold out!
Halloween night tickets ($229) went fast, and opening night (August 15, $149) is next in line. All other dates are still available ($119–$229). Book early for the best price and lighter crowds. Get tickets here.
Passholder-Exclusive Summer Treats
Don’t miss these limited-time snacks!
-
Cruella Ice Cream Sundae at Hollywood Scoops (May 27–July 31)
-
Joffrey’s Passholder beverages (June 2–July 31) in each park and Disney Springs
-
Collect stamps for all five drinks and redeem for a special beverage holder!
Pro tip: Some villainous treats (like the Hades Float and Maleficent Cone) are available to all guests!
Port Orleans French Quarter Refurbishment
Stay in style with Mardi Gras flair!
All 1,000+ rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter are now refreshed with bright New Orleans-inspired fabrics, Princess and the Frog artwork, and more storage. The pool and Mardi Grogs Pool Bar have also been updated for a festive vibe.
Top 10 Disney Money-Saving Tips
-
Visit on weekdays for lower prices and lighter crowds.
-
Use Passholder deals and limited-time offers.
-
Kids get in free for Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life on Thursdays (May 29–Aug 28).
-
Book resort stays during off-peak periods.
-
Use mobile order for meals.
-
Bring your own snacks and refillable water bottles.
-
Use Genie+ for high-demand rides.
-
Watch for limited-time discounts.
-
Follow crowd calendars.
-
Redeem Joffrey’s stamp cards for Passholder rewards.
Listener Strategies & Hidden Gems
-
Arrive early for parades and shows.
-
Split up for snacks and reconvene.
-
Use the My Disney Experience app for wait times and mobile ordering.
-
Hidden gem: The “Get Animated” experience in Animation Courtyard—great for a midday break!
The 50 Juiciest Disney World Secrets
Want to impress your friends with Disney trivia?
We asked former Cast Members for their best-kept secrets, planning hacks, and hidden gems. Here are just a few—catch all 50 in Episode 683!
-
Magic Kingdom’s underground “Utilidors” are real—and massive!
-
The Cinderella Castle suite can’t be booked—only VIPs and contest winners get in.
-
Main Street’s windows honor Disney legends.
-
The “Kiss Goodnight” show at Cinderella Castle is a magical post-close moment.
-
Haunted Mansion’s ghosts use a 19th-century illusion called “Pepper’s Ghost.”
-
Free ice water at any quick-service restaurant—just ask!
-
The “Dapper Dans” will perform villain songs if you request them.
-
The “Tangled” bathrooms are the most elaborately themed in any park.
-
The “Orange Bird” treats in Adventureland are a cult favorite.
-
The “PeopleMover” offers a secret view inside Space Mountain.
...and 40 more!
Don’t miss the full countdown—listen to Episode 683 now!
Why You Matter Most: A Heartfelt Note
At Disney DNA Podcast, we believe every Disney fan is part of the magic. Your curiosity, kindness, and excitement are what make the parks—and this community—so special. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of Main Street, remember:
You are the magic.
Thank you for being here, for sharing your stories, and for making every week a little more magical. We can’t wait to share more adventures with you!
Listen & Subscribe
🎧 Listen to Episode 683 now!
Don’t miss our weekly episodes for the latest Disney World news, tips, and heartwarming stories. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app!
Trent Caillouet
Host
Trent is the creative director and founder of The DSNY DNA Podcast. He is a Disney Fanatic and Disney Vacation Club Member. His fondest memories of Walt Disney World began as a child during family vacations to Florida. Trent is from Louisiana, and when not podcasting, he enjoys spending time with Jeni and the girls, watching sports, and watching movies. You can find him singing along with Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress or admiring the beauty of Cinderella Castle in his spare time!
Walt Disney World Spring 2025: What’s New, What’s Next, and 50 Must-Do Experiences
