Hello, Donna!
I TOTALLY understand your question because this happened to my family just a few weeks ago! I was able to book a reservation for
'Ohana at
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort for 9:50 PM several months ago but REALLY wanted to find an earlier time. I am very happy to inform that by the day of our 'Ohana reservations, I was able to secure a 6:40 pm reservation for seven people! WOO HOO!
Here are the four tips I can give you to secure an earlier 'Ohana reservation:
1. Be willing to split your party up into smaller reservations. My family has seven people, so I was able to secure a 6:40 PM reservation when I split my family into a reservation of four and a reservation of three.
2. These reservations opened up closer to our Walt Disney World vacation! Guests have a day to cancel a reservation without a penalty. As other families get closer to their vacations, plans will change. When another family cancels their reservation, you are then able to snag their cancelled reservation! While it can be scary to wait a week before your vacation begins, you will have a much better opportunity to book an earlier reservation time.
3. I highly recommend calling (407) WDW-DINE and speaking to a very helpful Cast Member to change your reservation time. Cast Members are able to secure times and book both reservations all in the same call.
4. Arrive to your 'Ohana reservations 20 early and let them know that you would like both parties to sit together. While this request is not guaranteed, a Cast Member was able to make our dreams come true by sitting us all at the same table!
I sure hope this helps in your planning! If you have other questions, please let us know!
Have a MAGICAL day!
Wes