Walt Disney World is synonymous with the word entertainment, as every day at the various Disney theme parks is always a blast. When you're not riding the fun rides at the various Disney theme parks or enjoying one of the many interesting tours, catching a Disney show or parade is an excellent way to pass some time. Some of the Disney World shows are akin to Broadway productions, while others offer behind-the-scenes looks at stunts and movie-making techniques. Other ones focus on world culture and exotic animals, so there's something for everyone. Most of the Disney World entertainment options are appropriate for all ages, meaning that they are among the best choices for family shows in Orlando.

Most of the shows and parades at Disney World take place at one of the four main theme parks, which include the Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, Hollywood Studios, and the Animal Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom is home to one of the more popular parades at Disney World, and it's the Disney Dreams Come True Parade. All your favorite Disney characters will be on hand during this parade, which features a series of impressive floats that make their way down Main Street, U.S.A. Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade is another one of the parades at Disney World that you might want to add to the agenda, and there are bunch of other good ones as well. Held everyday at 4 p.m. at Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Jammin' Jungle Parade is a tribute to the park's resident animals, and it too features famous Disney characters. Save for the special holiday parades at Disney World, most Disney parades are held on a daily basis, so you can catch them regardless of when you visit.

In addition to catching a daytime parade, those interested in the Disney World entertainment choices can also catch a nighttime fireworks extravaganza. Both the Magic Kingdom and Epcot Center feature nightly fireworks shows that are nothing if not captivating. The Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks show at the Magic Kingdom is the largest fireworks show that Disney has ever put on, and it's quite the performance. Disney characters like Jiminy Cricket and Cinderella are featured in the Wishes Nighttime Spectacular, which makes most 4th of July celebrations look like a mere warm-up. If you are hanging out at Epcot Center instead, the IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth fireworks show will not disappoint either. Perhaps best viewed from the Italy and Germany country pavilions, this thunderous show features video images that are shown on a large, spherical screen that rises from the World Showcase Lagoon. It's definitely a fan favorite when it comes to the Hollywood Studios shows. Both of these fireworks shows start at 9 p.m., and it's recommended that you find a good spot to watch them from at least an hour in advance.

Orlando Map

As mentioned, some of the Disney World shows are akin to Broadway productions. Among them is the Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage! show, which features all the great musical scores that helped to make the animated film such a hit. Belle, Gaston, Lumiere, and a host of other characters from the movie make a guest appearance in this production, which is featured among the lineup of Hollywood Studios shows. For those who have small kids in their group, the Playhouse Disney - Live on Stage! show at Hollywood Studios is another surefire pleaser. Audience members are encouraged to dance and sing along with the cast members during this production, which features characters from Disney's lineup of children's television shows. If you enjoy singing and dancing at the Playhouse Disney show, then you'll also want to try to catch the Hollywood Studios Block Party Bash. Touted by Disney as a "rockin' interactive parade," the Block Party Bash features characters from the Disney-Pixar films.

The list of Disney World entertainment options is much too long to fully cover in just one article, and suffice it to say that between the numerous Disney theme parks, you'll find plenty of shows to enjoy. At the Animal Kingdom, for example, you can watch Finding Nemo - The Musical, or perhaps catch the Festival of the Lion King production. Afterwards, you might treat yourself to a viewing of the Flights of Wonder animal show, which features more than 30 different species of birds. At the different Disney theme parks, you'll also get the chance to meet and greet famous Disney characters at a number of side shows. At the Magic Kingdom, for example, shows like Storytime with Belle even let guests dress up for their own roles in the story. In addition to enjoying an array of meet-and-greet-style Disney World shows, Orlando visitors can also catch a number of interesting Disney concerts, such as those that are featured at the different Epcot country pavilions. The sky is basically the limit when it comes to Disney World Entertainment, so stop wishing on a star, and make your Disney World vacation a reality!