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Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Jan 30, 2012
    Layla from TX Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are planning our first trip to DisneyWorld this March! Yipppeeee! When planning dinner reservations in advnace what would be the best time - we want to spend the day at the park & watch the parades, etc.

    Hi, Layla!  If you are going to be having dinner inside the park where you want to stay and see the fireworks or night time show, I'd recommend a reservation at least two hours before the start of the evening festivities.  So, if you want to see Wishes fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, and on the night you want to go they begin at 8:00 PM, I'd say dinner should be around 6:00.  That gives you time to enjoy your meal, and then wander back to find a spot to watch the show!

    The daytime parades usually being around 3:00 PM, so dinner anytime after 4:00 gives you time to see the afternoon parade and get to your restaurant.

    If you plan to leave the theme park you are in, go to dinner, then go back to the park for the night time fireworks, give yourself an hour travel time from wherever you are.  Let's say you want to do dinner at 'Ohana at the Polynesian resort, then go to EPCOT for Illuminations.  If Illuminations takes place at 9:00 PM, you should plan to leave the Polynesian no later than 8:00 PM.  I like to give at least an hour and a half for dinner. 

    You might also want a late dinner one night. From the time the fireworks begin, give yourself at least an hour to travel from the park to the restaurant, and allow at least 20 minutes for the show.

    I hope that helps with your planning!
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Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

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