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Super Summer Guide: What to Wear to Disney World in July

Want to know how to survive the summer on your Disney vacation? Check out our super summer guide to learn what to wear to Disney World in July!

15 best items to pack what to wear to Disney world in july, Ariel in parade

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation during the summer months? Prepare for a magical experience—but also a hot one! July is a peak summer travel period, but also one of the peak temperature months of the year.  And while it’s traditionally been one of the busiest times of the year (though that is changing and it’s actually not as busy as some weeks in the fall or winter) it’s also a great time to enjoy theme parks, special fireworks, and extended hours at the most magical place on earth.

In this guide, we’ll cover exactly what to wear, what to pack, and how to beat the summer heat to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip—whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned Disney traveler.

July at Disney World: What to Expect

Why It’s a Good Time to Go

July ranks up there as a busy month for family travel, but not as busy as spring break or the Holiday season (around Christmas). It’s the best time for many because schools are out, work schedules align, and it’s a classic summer vacation window. For some, this is the only time of year the whole family can make a Disney trip happen (which is true for my family as my husband is a teacher).

The July crowds are real—but so are the perks: long park hours, after hours events, extra entertainment, and a high-energy atmosphere throughout the Disney parks.

July Weather in Orlando

Let’s talk July and midsummer average temperatures in Central Florida: Expect daytime temperatures in the 90s (°F) with high humidity and an average high temperature of 92°F. Daily afternoon thunderstorms are almost guaranteed, but they’re usually brief.

That said, you’ll need to plan for:

  • Hot weather

  • Rainy days, at least rainy afternoons

  • High UV exposure

  • Humid, sticky afternoons

The bottom line? Your Disney World in July (or summer in general) packing strategy needs to prioritize lightweight clothing, breathable fabrics, and gear that helps you stay cool and dry- or at least limits your sweating.  Layers can also be helpful for cold air-conditioned restaurants and indoor rides, shows, and attractions. 

Special July Experiences at the Disney Parks

fireworks at hall of presidents magic kingdom

Fourth of July Magic

If you’re visiting over the 4th of July holiday, prepare for one of the most memorable (and crowded) events of the year. Independence Day is celebrated with spectacular 4th of July fireworks, most famously at Magic Kingdom and Epcot. These patriotic-centered fireworks displays are incredible, but you need to be ready to brave one of the biggest crowd impact days of the summer.

Even if you’re not at the parks on July 4th, the days before and after can still be kind of busy, but really there aren’t any “slow” times at Disney World anymore- social media and flexible schedules have really changed the game here!

Summer-Only Entertainment

So, let’s talk summer entertainment in Disney World, this is also important to consider when planning what to pack and what to wear to Disney World in July. 

July also brings:

New summer entertainment offerings

Donald duck storybook circus

These can often include events such as stage shows and summer-specific parades, which vary from year to year.  At the time of this writing, the main offerings for 2025 are:

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away – New Nighttime Parade

  • Debut Date: July 20, 2025, at Magic Kingdom 

  • What to Expect: First regular nighttime parade since 2016, featuring illuminated floats with characters like Moana, Mirabel (“Encanto”), Miguel (“Coco”), and of course Mickey Mouse, plus the Blue Fairy leading the procession along Main Street U.S.A., past Cinderella Castle 

  • Extras: Parade-specific snacks (blue raspberry bubblegum popcorn mix), merch, and tie-ins to the “Cool Kid Summer” promotion featuring discounted tickets and hotel stays

New Live Shows & Interactive Experiences

  • The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure & Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After at Hollywood Studios, plus character dance parties across Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios.  These are not specific to July but have just recently opened and the character dance parties are summer specific.

  • Additional interactive zones: Storybook Circus and Tomorrowland (Magic Kingdom), Goofy-themed play in CommuniCore Hall at Epcot (special entertainment for “Cool Kid Summer” this year)

Additional Frequent Summer Events at Disney World

oga's cantina cocktail beer

  • Sports competitions like AAU basketball and cheer events

  • Fully operational water parks- both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open this summer!

  • Open resort pools and poolside activities, this is a given anytime of the year but seem to pick up a new energy over the summer!

  • Special summer-themed snacks and drinks.  As mentioned above, Disney World is having “Cool Kids Summer” and here are just a few of the featured snacks and drinks:

    • At Magic Kingdom, you can grab a blue raspberry bubblegum popcorn mix served in a light-up bucket during the new Starlight Parade. Hollywood Studios offers the adorable Experiment 626 pudding inspired by Stitch, plus a “Get Refreshed” snack stand in Animation Courtyard with kid-friendly options like granola bars, fruit, and boxed drinks.

There’s truly no shortage of things to do during this time of year at the Walt Disney World Resort!

What to Wear: Outfit Ideas for the Summer Heat at Disney World

General Dress Code for Disney World

Disney doesn’t have a strict dress code, but there are some rules and these include:

  • ✅ Shirts and shoes are required at all times (no swimsuit tops alone or bare feet)

  • ✅ Clothing must be family-friendly – no offensive language, graphics, or obscene imagery

  • ✅ No excessively revealing outfits – thong-style bottoms, string bikinis, and exposed undergarments are not allowed

  • ✅ Clothing must not drag on the ground or pose a tripping hazard

  • ❌ Costumes are not allowed for guests 14 and older, except during special events (like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

  • ❌ Objectionable tattoos must be covered if deemed inappropriate by Disney staff

Ideal Clothing for Park Days

tree of life photopass animal Kingdom June 2023

To stay cool be sure to choose natural fabrics (like cotton, linen, dri-fit, bamboo, or hemp), light colors, and bright colors that reflect light rather than absorb heat.  Avoid dark colors (unless they are made from breathable fabrics) that can intensify the sun’s heat.

Here are some outfit ideas for what to wear to Disney World in July:

(And check out my Amazon favorites listed below)

  • Tank tops and moisture-wicking athletic wear made from the above fabrics

  • Shorts or skorts made of breathable fabrics- there are so many fun choices listed below and also available through ScottEVest, Halara, and many Disney-focused skorts on Etsy.  They also have skorts with biking shorts built in with side pockets for your phone!

  • Lightweight rain jackets or ponchos for surprise showers.  Rain Jackets also make a great layer for cold indoor attractions and restaurants.

  • Disney-themed sundresses or Disney bounding character colored staples.  I really like the options listed below, or basic skirts and tanks from Halara. You just choose the color scheme of your favorite character and let the theming begin.

  • A bathing suit and cover up  if you’re planning a visit to water rides, pools, or water parks

Best Shoes for Disney in July

Your feet are going to carry you 10–12 miles per day, so choose wisely. The best shoes for Disney World in July are:

  • Cushioned tennis shoes or sneakers with breathable mesh are my favorites; my preferred brands are New Balance and Adidas.  Check out my favorite shoes for Disney in this blog! 

  • Comfortable sandals with arch support.  I love Oofos Flip Flops (and yes I have worn them all day and my feet felt great, they are amazing).  Many love Keen Sandals, and Vionic Sandals are also super comfy!

  • Water-resistant sandals like Crocs or Tevas for water rides, or just rainy days (it’s always great to pack a spare, light shoe in your bag for rainy days and these fit the bill as do the flip flops above)

  • Flip flops for the hotel, pool, or a quick walk to refill drinks- so even if you don’t wear them to the parks it’s great to pack a comfy light pair!

Whatever you pick, break your shoes in before your trip- you don’t want blisters (here’s a great blister prevention blog for long miles at Disney World).

Disney World Shopping Guide: Survive the Heat with These Essentials

How to Beat the Heat at Disney World

As an Amazon Affiliate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. Thanks for using these affiliate links to support the magic! I choose items I have tried and love.  I also have listed here other companies I am not affiliated with but just love their products, I don’t earn a commission from these other links.

For a packing checklist read all the way to the end or join my email list for a free printable pdf sent straight to your inbox!

Clothing & Footwear

Sun and Rain Protection

Park Bag Essentials

Disney park bag

For a full blog on packing the BEST park bag check out this post! But as a quick review, I always pack the following: 

 

Park-Specific Packing Tips

Each park has its own vibe and needs. Here are quick suggestions based on where you’re headed:

Disney Character Meals Crystal Palace Disney World in July

Magic Kingdom

  • Focus on themed cute outfits- classics like red and white polka dots for Minnie, Stitch themed gear, or Disney bound as your favorite Disney princess

  • Bring a poncho or raingear for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formerly Splash Mountain) or afternoon storms

  • Mickey ears are a super fun accessory to pack for Magic Kingdom!

Animal Kingdom

  • This park feels hotter due to fewer indoor spaces—wear athletic wear or breathable fabrics, bring cooling towels and fans, and take frequent breaks inside.  Don’t forget your water bottles and electrolytes.

  • Avoid dark clothing (it’s hotter and shows sweat)

Hollywood Studios

  • This park has lots of fun character meet and greets so pack your glittery, pink finest to meet old Hollywood Minnie or sport your Sorcerer Mickey accessories.  You could also coordinate to meet Olaf from Frozen, or even Max and the Goof (think orange, bright green, and lots of 90s flare).

  • It’s also a great park for outfit ideas like bounding as a Star Wars or Pixar character- you can meet either!

Epcot

  • Lots of walking, eating, and potentially some cocktails if you like! Think comfortable shoes, breathable outfits with stretchy fabrics, and a refillable water bottle

Sample Packing List for What to Wear to Disney World in July

Use this checklist for a weeklong July Disney World vacation:

Clothing

  • ☐ 4–5 tank tops or lightweight tees

  • ☐ 3–4 moisture-wicking shorts or skorts

  • ☐ 2–3 cute outfits or sundresses

  • ☐ 2 pairs of walking shoes (plus flip flops for hotel use or as your park bag shoes)

  • ☐ 2 swimsuits and a pool cover-up

  • ☐ Pajamas and undergarments

  • ☐ Rain poncho or lightweight rain jacket

Park Bag Supplies

  • ☐ Cooling towel

  • ☐ Portable fan

  • ☐ Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF

  • ☐ Refillable water bottle

  • ☐ Sunglasses and hat

  • ☐ Hand sanitizer and wipes

  • ☐ Portable phone charger

  • ☐ Waterproof phone case

  • ☐ Blister patches, Band-Aids, ibuprofen, anti-nausea meds or meds for wrist bands if you might need them for dizziness inducing rides 

Hotel Room

  • ☐ Snacks and breakfast items

  • ☐ Ziplock bags

  • ☐ Swimsuit laundry bag or detergent pods

  • ☐ First-aid kit and a well packed Toiletries bag

Staying Cool and Comfortable

Enchanted_tiki_room_wdw Disney WOrld air conditioned show in July

Midday Heat Hacks

  • Take breaks in indoor attractions (hello, air conditioning!)

  • Mobile order food to avoid standing in long outdoor lines

  • Tour in the early morning and post-dinner to avoid the hottest parts of the day.  I’m a big believer in rope dropping and early entry, and getting popular rides in after the fireworks at Magic Kingdom!

Hydration & Health

  • Drink water early and often—even if you don’t feel thirsty

  • Use electrolyte powder to keep your energy up

  • Aim for moderate levels of physical activity in the afternoon

Where to Cool Off

  • Indoor shows like Carousel of Progress, the Enchanted Tiki Room, or Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Magic Kingdom, The Festival of the Lion King or Finding Dory at Animal Kingdom, For the First time in Forever at Hollywood Studios, and Spaceship Earth or the American Adventure at EPCOT>

  • Hotel rooms and resort pools in the peak of the heat of the day

  • Gift shops and merch locations with A/C

It’s also helpful to consider a rest day at your hotel in the middle of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is July a Good Time to Visit Disney?

Yes—if you plan ahead. Visiting in July can be a great time to experience the Walt Disney World Resort, especially if it’s the best time for your family to travel. While the July crowds, high temperatures, and hot weather are real, the special fireworks or events, extended hours, and summer vacation vibes are worth it for many.

Be sure to pack the proper attire as noted above, stay hydrated, take cooling breaks, and pack comfortable shoes and accessories that keep you cool.  Wear your sunscreen too- no one wants to travel home with burned, peeling, blistered skin- or worse- have to shorten their expensive vacation due to heat stroke!

You May Also Love these posts:

13 Best Things to Pack for Disney World!

Disney Parks Loungefly Bags Review: Are they the Best Park Bags?

Need more help planning the perfect Disney World vacation? Check out my complete park strategy and planning guides- and save hours during and even before your Disney World Vacation!

Pixie Park Plans The Ultimate Disney Vacation Planning Guide!

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