Hi there, Jaclyn! Welcome to planDisney!
I'd like to start with a big, huge, Mickey-sized anniversary shoutout to your parents! There happens to be another special 50th anniversary going on, the
Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration! That's right, 50 years of magic at the Walt Disney World Resort! In honor of this special occasion, you'll see iridescent touches all over the parks, merchandise and even
Cinderella Castle!
Advance dining reservations can be a little tricky with groups as large as yours. You did the right thing by breaking up your party and checking that way! Since you are still not having much luck, you may consider utilizing the
Walk-Up List at participating dining locations. I'd recommend having two members of your group join the Walk-Up List at one time. You could even enlist the help of the Cast Member at the podium to let you know the likelihood of both of your smaller groups getting a table close to the same time. Your best odds are to join the list as close to the restaurant's opening time as possible!
If you would prefer to make a phone call and have a Cast Member help you that way, you can
call the number listed for Dining Reservations. A friendly, helpful Cast Member on the other end of the line will do their best to make your dining dreams come true! They may be able to break your party up in a way you have not yet tried or have other creative ideas to keep your family together while dining.
Jaclyn, be sure to keep checking back for dining reservations as your stay approaches. You never know when other Guests may cancel their plans, opening up those previously reserved time slots for you. I will keep my ears crossed that you're able to find the reservations your heart desires before your stay!
Until next time,
Ashley