Oh dear, Calleigh!
Like our friend White Rabbit, it seems I'm late for a very important date. I haven't wished you a very merry unbirthday yet, so let me take a moment to do just that. A very merry unbirthday to you!
Now, it sounds like you and I are both big fans of all things
Alice in Wonderland. I take every opportunity to go for a maximum-speed spin on
Mad Tea Party anytime I visit Disneyland Resort, and I've snapped my fair share of selfies with Alice and Mad Hatter as I've spotted them prancing around
Fantasyland. I've stopped for a photo in the iconic pink and white teacup just outside
The Mad Hatter shop as well, but "curiouser and curiouser!" I haven't made time for a formal tea party on any of my past visits.
Your unbirthday is a perfect reason to celebrate with a tea party, and I can't think of two better table partners than Alice and White Rabbit. While I have seen some videos of past spontaneous tea parties with Alice and Mad Hatter, it seems those were indeed whimsical, magical, WONDERful moments of Disney magic. There is no set schedule for moments like these and unfortunately, there aren't any reservations available to pre-book. Believe me, I'll be first in line to have a "clean cup, clean cup" and "move down, move down," if the opportunity ever presents itself.
I'd suggest dressing for tea next time you visit and having your camera ready for a quick photo. If you're lucky you just may get to ride Mad Tea Party with a Wonderland friend. This is a bucket list Disney Parks experience for me, so I'll just keep spinning until that magical moment happens. If you're looking for a spot of tea while you enjoy Fantasyland head on over to
Red Rose Taverne for a hot cup. The Queen of Hearts says "curtsy while you're thinking, it saves time," but you can also place a
Mobile Order for your tea to save time, too.
Now that we've pinpointed your best options for Alice and Mad Hatter, I'd like to mention that I've only had the pleasure of meeting White Rabbit on a
Disney Cruise Line sailing a few years back. This was enough to make me shout "off with their heads," as I rushed past my family for a portrait the moment I spotted him. Character appearances are always subject to change, but I'll cross my gloved fingers you'll get the chance to meet him on dry land one day. Best not to cry as you wait so you don't suddenly float away in a teeny, tiny bottle marked "Drink Me."
Calleigh, I know this was likely not the answer you hoped for, but as Walt himself said "Disneyland will never be completed" and new magic is always in the works. I'd keep an eye on
Disney Parks Blog so you'll be the first to hear if and when any new character dining experiences become available. I'll be checking my pocket watch and pondering why a raven is like a writing desk until then.
If we can answer any other planning questions please don't hesitate to come back to planDisney and let us know. As you might have guessed, we're all mad here, but we're always eager to help!
Painting the roses red,
Amy