Hi Sarah!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question.
If you're planning a visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and want to enjoy the park's newest nighttime show,
Rivers of Light, booking the Rivers of Light Dining Package is an awesome idea.
With the
Rivers of Light Dining Package, Guests enjoy a delicious meal, followed by priority reserved seating at the show. The reserved section has a great view of the show - right in the center of the amphitheater! There are two restaurants to choose from that offer the dining package:
Tusker House Restaurant has an all-you-care to-enjoy buffet, and you can choose breakfast, lunch or dinner seating for your dining package meal. Reservation times have to be at least 2 1/2 hours before show time, so that Guests will have time to enjoy their meal and then make their way over to the amphitheater prior to the start of the show. You won't actually be dining for that length of time, so no need to worry about the little ones - you can always enjoy your dining package meal at breakfast or lunch!
Tiffin's has dining packages available at lunch and dinner. You'll be able to choose an appetizer, entree, non-alcoholic beverage, and a dessert, and dining must take place at least three hours prior to the show.
I hope this helps clarify the reason for the dining reservation times. Have a magical day! - Diane W.