Hey howdy hey, Angela! You’ve got a friend in me at planDisney, and I can’t wait to help you plan an unforgettable 18th birthday celebration for your daughter!
Just like your family, my family also shares the tradition of spending our birthdays at the
Happiest Place on Earth. So, it has been disappointing not being able to celebrate inside the parks with a hug from Mickey Mouse and rides on our favorite attractions! However, thanks to the Disneyland Resort’s
phased reopening, I’m happy to report that you can still sprinkle some pixie dust on your daughter’s upcoming birthday with a visit to
Downtown Disney District!
First thing's first -- picking up a
complimentary birthday button is one of the most important parts of our family’s birthday tradition, too! On one of my recent visits to Downtown Disney, my friend was able to nab a birthday button from
Marceline’s Confectionery. The Cast Member she spoke with said they aren’t allowed to write names on the buttons at this time, so she recommended bringing your own Sharpie to add your daughter’s name. You should also be able to find these buttons at
World of Disney,
The Disney Dress Shop, and
Disney Home.
I have a few more suggestions for making your daughter’s birthday extra sweet. While you’re at Marceline’s Confectionery, be sure to grab some Churro Toffee, a Minnie Mouse Candy Apple, or a Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar – I love that Guests can still enjoy a taste of the parks in Downtown Disney!
Last but not least, I highly recommend making a reservation if you plan to enjoy a meal at Downtown Disney District. Not only will this guarantee a table for your group, but it will also help you with parking in the Simba Lot, especially when the lot is full and parking is temporarily paused. Here’s how it works: Guests who have booked a dining reservation can speak with a parking lot Cast Member to show proof of their reservation to gain parking access. You can find the Simba Lot at Disneyland Drive and Katella Avenue. I’m thrilled to report that parking at the Simba Lot is temporarily complimentary, too! My family loves dining at
Naples Ristorante e Bar -- the family-size pizzas are delicious!
I hope this information helps you plan a birthday to remember, Angela! Wishing your daughter a very happy 18th birthday, to infinity and beyond!
Kristin