Hi there, Hilary! Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
I am so excited that you are coming for your little one's first birthday! My son spent his first birthday at the Walt Disney World Resort as well, and those memories and pictures are some that I will cherish forever.
Cabana rentals are available at Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. While you do not have to be staying at Disney's Contemporary Resort or Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to rent a cabana, you must be a guest of another Walt Disney World Resort hotel on the day of your rental. At this time, only guests of Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are eligible to rent the cabanas at that location.
If you are interested in adding a few thrills to your day of fun in the sun, both
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park and
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park also have cabanas available for rent.
Hilary, all cabanas may be rented for either a half-day or a full-day and include a multitude of luxurious amenities including TV's, fans, complementary refreshments, and often have a dedicated Cast Member to assist you. You may also have
private catering brought in, if requested. One thing that you need to know is that all cabanas have a maximum capacity of 6 people, so you would need to rent two.
Hilary, one of my absolute favorite things to do for a large party such as yours is a
Private Fireworks Cruise. Up to 10 individuals can board a pontoon boat and sail the Seven Seas Lagoon while enjoying complimentary snacks before you pull up in front of the Magic Kingdom for an amazing view of Happily Ever After! Since this
Enchanting Extra is priced by the boat instead of by person, it often ends up being a great value for my large family!
Another great idea to celebrate your little man's birthday would be a special character meal. When my little guy was 1-year-old, nothing beat dining with his favorite pals at
Chef Mickey's!
To really put the icing on the cake, don't forget to pre-order a special celebration cake from
Amorette's Patisserie or an in-room birthday celebration from
Disney Floral & Gifts!
I hope this gave you a few ideas on how to celebrate your little one's birthday, Hilary. Please come back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel if we can help as you plan your magical getaway!
Sarah B.