Hi Natalie! A surprise trip to the Walt Disney World Resort sounds like a dream come true. I wish I could be there to see the look on your kids’ faces when they find out they are going! I also think that you are going during the best time of year! It is my absolute favorite time to visit.
Character meals are a great way to get to meet the characters without having to stand in a long line. It’s also a bonus because in my experience I have always had great food. Some of my favorite character experiences are Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood and Vine in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (we love the breakfast experience here), and the Best Friends Breakfast featuring Lilo & Stitch at
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. I have found the character interactions to be really fun and the food has been so delicious. I have a very picky eater and even she has been able to find something that she likes to eat!
While I do not yet have any concrete plans for this upcoming fall/winter season, with Frozen being so popular I would guess that there will be some kind of show or sing along with Anna and Elsa. You also should hopefully still be able to meet Anna and Elsa in Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom Park.
While you are visiting try to take advantage of some of the holiday happenings. My favorite event is
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. With snow on Main Street U.S.A., hot chocolate and cookies at locations throughout the park, and Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, this event is not to be missed.
I hope that you have a magical vacation! We love helping guests just like you plan your vacation!
~Heather~