Hi, Hazel! If you want to do dinner at the Rose and Crown, the Candlelight Dinner Package will probably not be very helpful to you. In years past, when you book your dinner package, you have to enjoy your meal BEFORE you see the Processional, so if you want to do the 5:00 o'clock Candlelight Processional, you would have to book lunch at the Rose and Crown.
Having said that, December sixth is still early in the season, and it's also a weeknight. You may find that you and your full party of eight will be able to find seats together just by waiting in the standby line. I would suggest that you get into the line as early as you can, because I have seen some people waiting in line as much as an hour prior to show time! That would mean you don't have to purchase the dinner package, and you can still enjoy your dinner at the Rose and Crown at the time you choose.
I generally book the dinner package for my family for two reasons. I have young children, and I like to limit the line standing to the minimum. They get antsy, and it's hard to keep them entertained waiting in an hour long line. The other reason I opt for the package is because it's just a nice way to guarantee a lovely sit down meal where the family is all together. The holiday season can get so busy, that we love to use this evening as a way to reconnect with each other, instill the holiday spirit in our family, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas - away from the shops and the baking and the gift wrapping!
I hope you have a wonderful time!