Hi Robert and welcome to planDisney!
First things first, I’m wishing your dad so many special birthday wishes!” Walt Disney World Resort is a perfect place to celebrate a milestone birthday. I’m sure that you and your family want to surround your dad with magical moments during your vacation celebration, so let’s see what we can dream up!
Now, I wish that I had some wishes to grant you from our friend Genie that would guarantee a spot for your dad in that Grand Marshal vehicle, but unfortunately, that particular wish is out of Genie’s wheelhouse. Grand Marshalls for the
Festival of Fantasy Parade are selected at random each day. I did some checking with my planDisney pals, who are also experts in helping to create magical memories, and they offered some simple advice. Arrive at
Magic Kingdom Park early, even before park opening. As you are waiting for the park to open, be sure to greet Cast Members and other Guests with a warm smile and a friendly greeting! Robert, I’ve had friends selected as Family of the Day before, and this is exactly what they were doing before being magically selected. So, short of a Genie wish, it is worth a try.
But never fear, Robert, there are many ways for your dad to be celebrated while at Walt Disney World! For starters, stop by a Guest Relations or Front Desk location and pick up a
complimentary “I’m celebrating...” or a birthday button. I would suggest that everyone in your party wear a button celebrating your dad! Walt Disney World Cast Members are always glad to recognize and celebrate with you by helping to create little magical moments for you. And while you are celebrating, consider
ordering a Celebration Cake in advance when you book your dining reservation online or through the
My Disney Experience app, or have your Dad’s resort hotel room overflowing with a special gift from
Disney Floral & Gifts upon your arrival.
Robert, one thing I know is that you can't go wrong celebrating your dad at Walt Disney World because you will make memories of a lifetime! To capture those memories, consider purchasing
Memory Maker, which includes unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken by amazing PhotoPass photographers during your stay. You might also consider booking a
Capture Your Moment private photo session in one of the theme parks. Advanced reservations are highly recommended. Call the team in advance to let them know that you are celebrating your dad's birthday at (407) 939-7758 or inform your photographer when you check in. Just thinking about what a special keepsake these photos will be for your family brings me such joy as I know you will cherish them.
Robert, please
stop back by and allow me the privilege of helping you with any other questions you might have as you plan this special vacation for your family. When it comes to planning memories of a lifetime, you ain’t never had a friend like planDisney!
Keep believing in the magic,
Shannon