Hello there, Shannon! Welcome to planDisney. We are so glad you've stopped by with this question!
Oh boy! What a magical birthday you are planning for your son. This is definitely going to be one for the memory books. I do not think it is important to have the names of the kids when you
purchase the tickets. I know when you link the tickets to your account in the Disneyland app it does prompt you to add a name for the ticket, but you can really put whatever you want and you can always change the name too if plans change. All you will need to do is chat or call Guest Services if you need to change one of the names. I do recommend that you try to purchase and book your theme park ticket reservations as soon as you can as the fall months are quite a popular time to visit.
Once you are in the park, be sure to stop by City Hall to grab a
complimentary birthday button so everyone can see and celebrate your son and his birthday!
If you are going to be outnumbered by the birthday kid crew, be sure to check out
mobile food and beverage ordering in the Disneyland app. This allows you to purchase your food ahead of time from participating locations and then easily pick up your order when it's your time. This should make it much easier for you to get everyone's order and check it twice before ordering.
Shannon, I am so excited about your son's birthday visit! Be sure to visit us again if you have any other questions along the way!
Carrie