Welcome to planDisney, Leah! And a very happy birthday to your little mouseketeer! How exciting to be planning a magical birthday trip; you're going to make the best memories seeing the magic of Disney through your little one's eyes! Be sure to stop by Guest Relations at any theme park and ask for a complimentary Happy Birthday celebration button so that everyone can share in your special celebration!
Leah, I'm happy to tell you that you will be able to find an assortment of DisneyBands on site at Disney theme parks, Disney Resort hotel gift shops, and even Disney Springs for purchase upon your arrival! This is indeed the most magical accessory on Earth and allows you to quickly tap into the theme parks, Lightning Lane entrances, and unlock your Disney Resort hotel door! If you're staying at a Disney Resort hotel, this little band will allow you to charge purchases back to your resort portfolio, making shopping and dining hands-free and super convenient! If you purchase a MagicBand+, you will even be able to interact with the magic around you on rides and attractions, during the fireworks shows, and at other surprise locations in the parks!
And speaking of fireworks, there are fireworks shows most nights at Magic Kingdom Park, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT, and these shows are included with your theme park admission! To see the specific times for your visit, check out the Park Hours and Calendar online or in the My Disney Experience mobile app upon your arrival to find all the specific information!
I'd love to share a few tips for each of them with you to guarantee you have a great viewing experience:
For Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom, my family loves to arrive at least 45 minutes before the show begins to secure a good viewing spot where we can see Cinderella Castle. This show uses projections on the castle in addition to fireworks, so to get the full experience, you will want to have an unobstructed view of the castle!
In EPCOT, the new nighttime spectacular, Luminous The Symphony of Us takes place all around World Showcase Lagoon. My favorite viewing spot is between Mexico and Norway; we like to grab some nachos and churros from La Cantina de San Angel and grab a spot to watch as we enjoy a late-night snack!
Disney's Hollywood Studios is home to Fantasmic! This is my absolute favorite nighttime event; it combines pyrotechnics, fireworks, and a host of your favorite Disney characters to explore the power of imagination! Be sure to get there early to get a good seat in the amphitheater; I recommend showing up at least 45-60 minutes in advance. You can also look into a Fantasmic! Dining Package which would guarantee reserved seating for the show! Your birthday child might love a character meal at Hollywood and Vine featuring some Disney Junior pals for breakfast or Minnie Mouse and friends for lunch and dinner!
Leah, and I hope you have the best trip celebrating your little one and catching all the fireworks entertainment at the parks! Come on back if we can help with anything else!
Alison