If you're looking for a laid-back, fun, and budget-friendly evening at Walt Disney World, the Chip and Dale Campfire Singalong at Fort Wilderness is one of my favorite hidden gems.
The chipmunks themselves make appearances, there's a cozy campfire, and it's surprisingly easy to plan around—as long as you know the schedule. The chip and dale campfire singalong isn't just a fun little side activity, it's a real memory-maker, especially if you're staying nearby or want something outside the parks.
After attending this event several times (sometimes just to take a break from the crowds), I’ve learned the ins and outs of how the singalong works, when to go, and how to make the most of it. I’ve also made plenty of mistakes, like arriving too late and not having a seat, or not realizing the movie lineup changes.
Hopefully, this guide will save you from a few of those headaches. Here’s everything I wish I knew the first time I went.
Key Points
- Check the schedule in advance: Times vary by season and weather, so ask at the front desk or call Fort Wilderness directly.
- Arrive 30+ minutes early: You’ll get better seats and time to roast marshmallows before the music starts.
- Bring your own supplies: You can buy s’mores kits there, but they’re pricey. I bring my own marshmallows and skewers.
Chip and Dale Campfire Singalong: What It Is and Why It’s Worth It
The chip and dale campfire singalong is a free nightly event at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. It includes:
- A singalong led by a cast member with Chip and Dale joining in
- A double campfire area for roasting marshmallows
- A Disney movie under the stars right after the singalong
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming—a far cry from the high-energy pace inside the parks. No lines, no Lightning Lane needed, no pressure to keep up with a schedule. You just show up, find a seat, and enjoy the evening.
If you're looking for something fun to do without a park ticket, this is one of the best evening activities you can find. It’s great for families, couples, or solo Disney travelers who just want to unwind with a little wholesome fun.
Fort Wilderness itself is worth visiting for this alone. It’s also home to other unique events like the Fort Wilderness movie schedule and is a low-key alternative to staying at a traditional hotel. The whole resort feels like a campground in the woods, but with that unmistakable Disney attention to detail. If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, it’s worth considering a night here just for the experience.
Schedule and Seasonal Changes
The singalong typically starts around 7:00 PM in fall/winter and 8:00 PM in spring/summer, followed by the movie about 40 minutes later. But keep in mind:
- Times shift with sunset and daylight savings.
- In bad weather, the event may be canceled.
- During peak seasons like December at Disney World, it might start earlier or get crowded quicker.
You won’t find the exact daily schedule online, so it’s important to ask a Cast Member or call Fort Wilderness directly at (407) 824-2900. If you're staying at another resort, ask the concierge or stop by the front desk—they can usually get the details for you. You can also try the My Disney Experience app, though it doesn’t always list the singalong clearly.
I once assumed the start time was the same year-round and showed up at 7:30 PM in July—only to find I had missed the character meet-and-greet entirely. Lesson learned. Always double-check the timing.
Getting There Without a Fort Wilderness Reservation
One of the questions I get most often is: can you go to the singalong if you're not staying at Fort Wilderness? Yes, you absolutely can. It’s open to all Disney guests (and even to people not staying on property, though getting in takes a little more effort).
Here’s how to get there:
- Take a boat from Magic Kingdom to Fort Wilderness. It’s the easiest and most scenic way to arrive. Once you get to the dock, hop on the internal resort bus to the Meadow Trading Post stop.
- Use internal buses if you’re already at Fort Wilderness. The resort is huge and spread out, so be prepared to wait a bit and plan your route. The singalong happens at the Meadow Recreation Area.
- Drive only if you have a reason (like a dinner reservation). Otherwise, parking is restricted to guests with reservations. Even if you're staying off-property, you can try using a rideshare to the entrance and then the internal bus system.
If you're planning dinner nearby, this is a great opportunity to visit Trail's End or P&J’s Southern Takeout beforehand. These aren’t your typical quick-service meals—they’re hearty, Southern-inspired, and perfect before a campfire evening. And if you're interested in dining perks, consider looking into Landry’s Select Club benefits, which can help at some other Disney Springs locations before or after your campfire night.
What to Bring for the Best Experience
While Disney sells s’mores kits at the Chuckwagon Snack Bar, I always bring my own supplies to save money and time. The snack bar line gets long right before the singalong starts, and the kits aren't cheap for what you get. Here's what I pack:
- Marshmallows, chocolate bars, graham crackers (in a reusable container)
- Wooden skewers or metal roasting sticks (label them if you're sharing)
- Blanket, towel, or low camp chairs (some benches are available, but they fill fast)
- Bug spray, especially in humid months
- Refillable water bottle or other drinks (no alcohol permitted)
- Wet wipes or hand sanitizer (things get sticky!)
- A small flashlight or phone light for walking back after dark
For families with young kids, I’d recommend glow sticks or clip-on lights too. The area gets pretty dark after the movie ends, and they help you keep track of little ones. If someone in your party has mobility needs or sensory sensitivities, it’s one of the more flexible environments. People are spread out, and you can easily step away or come and go.
If you need further accommodations, don’t hesitate to ask about the Disability Access Pass at Disney World. Fort Wilderness staff are usually very helpful and accustomed to working with guests who need additional support.
Other Low-Cost Evening Options Nearby
If you’re making a night of it, you can pair the singalong with other free or affordable experiences that don’t require a park ticket:
- Watch the Electrical Water Pageant from the Fort Wilderness beach. It’s simple, retro, and oddly charming—plus, it floats by most nights around 9:45 PM.
- Explore the resort trails or rent bikes. Fort Wilderness has beautiful trails, and it’s a nice chance to get away from the crowds.
- Take a boat ride to Disney Springs. It's a bit longer of a journey, but if you're not tired, Disney Springs offers live entertainment, snacks, and shopping. A great way to end the night.
If you’re visiting during a quieter time of year (like February or April), these extra evening ideas can really stretch your vacation value and let you experience more of the resort without spending extra on another park day.
Final Thoughts
The chip and dale campfire singalong might not get the same attention as parades or fireworks, but it’s one of those quiet wins that can make your trip feel fuller without costing anything extra. It’s fun, flexible, and easy to fit into any Disney itinerary—especially if you want a slower evening outside the parks.
If you’re deep into Disney World planning, it’s worth penciling this in as a low-stress night off. It’s also a great way to take advantage of the Fort Wilderness vibe without actually staying there overnight. And if your trip gets rerouted by something like a tropical storm, it’s good to have options like this in your back pocket.
