Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Casey! I can only imagine the excitement your little one will experience celebrating his big day at the Happiest Place on Earth. Best birthday gift ever!
There is an important distinction to make on the rule about children who turn 3 years old while visiting the parks. Since you mention checking in, I hope this means you have booked a
vacation package that included hotel accommodations and theme park tickets. If so, then yes, if your child is under 3 years old at the time you check in, then he is a Guest of Mickey for the duration of your trip. If you purchased your tickets separately instead of booking a vacation package, then your son will require a ticket starting the day he turns 3 and for all following days.
For dining at the Disneyland Resort, children under 3 years old can share from their parent's plate at no charge. If you opt to purchase a meal for your child, no matter their age, then you would pay the child's price. For buffets, children under 3 typically eat for free. Keep in mind that while children under 3 years old are not required to order a meal, you will still want to include them on your dining reservation. This ensures that you are given a table that can accommodate your entire party including any high chairs. If you are looking to make a reservation for a character meal, I highly suggest the Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park at the
Plaza Inn. The character interaction at this meal is over-the-top! We met so many friends the last time we dined here and the food simply couldn't be tastier!
I hope this helps clarify things. Please return to the Disney Parks Moms Panel with any other questions you may have. We simply love helping Guests plan magical vacations to the Disneyland Resort!
-Linda M.