A Complete Guide to Disney Resort Campfires, Outdoor Movie Nights, and S'mores (Open to All Visitors)

Looking for a magical Disney experience that won’t cost you a single park ticket? While park hoppers and character dining get all the glory, some of the best Walt Disney World memories are made after the sun goes down. Tucked away across the Disney Resort hotels are charming evening traditions: crackling campfires, gooey s’mores, and classic Disney movies under the stars. Even better? You do not need to be a guest staying at a specific resort—or even staying on property at all—to join in on the fun. Whether you’re planning a relaxing non-park day, looking for a free date night, or hunting for the ultimate budget-friendly Disney activity, here is your complete guide to Disney resort campfires, outdoor movie nights, and where to find the best s’mores. What to Expect: The Ultimate Evening Routine Most Disney resorts host nightly evening activities that follow a similar, family-friendly schedule (though exact times vary by season and resort): The Campfire & S’mores: Usually kicking off between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM (earlier in the winter, later in the summer), cast members light the fire pit. Roasting sticks are provided free of charge, and you can choose to bring your own s'mores supplies or purchase a kit on-site. Trivia and Games: Right around the campfire, Cast Members often host complimentary trivia, games, and sing-alongs for the kids. Movies Under the Stars: Following the campfire (usually around 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM), an outdoor screen lights up with a beloved Disney or Pixar movie. Can Anyone Really Attend? (The Open-Door Policy) Yes! Disney Resort campfires and movie nights are open to all visitors. If you are staying off-property: You can drive to a Disney resort, park in the guest parking (usually limited to a 3-hour limit, but security is generally relaxed for evening events), and head straight to the courtyard or beach. If you are park-hopping or resort-hopping: Take Disney transportation (monorail, Skyliner, or buses) over to a participating resort for a magical evening break. Note: While the events, seating, and fire-poking are 100% free, keep in mind that parking guidelines at resorts can occasionally tighten during peak holiday seasons (like Christmas or the 4th of July). The S’mores Situation: Free vs. Paid Let’s talk about the most important part: chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. BYOS (Bring Your Own S’mores): Pro-tip: Disney allows you to bring your own marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers. Buying a family pack at a local grocery store before your trip will save you a pretty penny! Disney’s S’mores Kits: If you forget your own supplies, don't worry. Cast members sell pre-packaged s'mores kits at the campfire area (usually ranging from $10 to $15). These kits typically include enough ingredients to make four generous s’mores and come with roasting sticks. The "Free" Marshmallows: Some resorts provide complimentary roasted marshmallows, but the official s’mores ingredients (chocolate and graham crackers) almost always require purchasing a kit or bringing your own. Best Disney Resorts for Campfires and Movie Nights While almost every Disney Moderate and Deluxe resort (and several Value resorts) offers these activities, a few locations stand out as absolute must-visits. 1. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground (Chip ’N’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long) The Vibe: Rustic, lively, and nostalgic. Why It’s Special: This is the gold standard of Disney campfires. Located near the Meadow Trading Post, it features two large fire pits and a live acoustic musical performance by Chip and Dale themselves! You can meet the chipmunks, sing along to classic campfire songs, and then stay for a classic Disney movie on a massive outdoor screen. Bonus: You can purchase gourmet s’mores kits and even roast hot dogs over the fire. 2. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House & Kidani Village The Vibe: Cultural, serene, and exotic. Why It’s Special: Where else can you roast a marshmallow while looking out at zebras and giraffes? The evening activities here often include cultural presentations, storytelling by African Cultural Representatives, and beautiful fire pits overlooking the savannas. 3. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn The Vibe: Turn-of-the-century seaside charm. Why It’s Special: Located right on the bustling BoardWalk, you can grab a treat from BoardWalk Ice Cream or BoardWalk Bakery, grab a seat by the water, and enjoy a movie with views of Crescent Lake. It’s the easiest campfire to access if you are visiting Epcot or Hollywood Studios, as you can just walk over from the International Gateway. 4. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge The Vibe: Cozy Pacific Northwest wilderness. Why It’s Special: The outdoor fire pit is nestled right near Fireplace Bay, surrounded by towering pines and the rushing waters of the resort's simulated geyser. It feels remarkably peaceful and cozy, especially on a cool Florida winter night. 5. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort & Pop Century Resort The Vibe: High-energy, colorful, and fun. Why It’s Special: Connected by the Disney Skyliner, these value resorts offer fantastic pool-side or courtyard movie nights. Art of Animation hosts its campfire right in the stunning Cars Land courtyard (Radiant Springs), making it a visual treat for younger kids. Tips for the Best Experience Check the Schedule in Advance: Movie schedules and campfire times change monthly. If you are staying at a Disney resort, you can check the My Disney Experience app (search "Movies Under the Stars"). If you are visiting from off-property, simply stop by the Front Desk or concierge podium of your chosen resort on the day of your visit to pick up a printed monthly recreation calendar. Beat the Bugs: Florida evenings can bring out mosquitoes, especially near water or wooded areas like Fort Wilderness. Pack some bug spray just in case. Bring a Jacket: While Florida is famously warm, winter nights (November through February) can get surprisingly chilly once the sun goes down—especially when sitting by the water at places like the BoardWise or Wilderness Lodge. Pair It with Dining: Make an evening of it! Grab dinner at Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge, or quick-service treats at Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, then walk down to the lawn for the movie. Plan Your Magical Movie Night Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, entertain the kids on a budget, or relive childhood memories of roasting marshmallows under the stars, Disney’s resort campfires and outdoor movie nights deliver pure magic. Grab some chocolate, round up your favorite people, and experience a side of Disney that most tourists completely miss! Have you ever attended a campfire or movie night at a Disney resort? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!