Hi Sara, welcome to planDisney!
I’m so excited for you and your family to experience the magic of
Walt Disney World Resort as you ring in the new year! With so much to see and do, you will make unforgettable memories with your little ones, especially with
MagicBand+, to add some extra fun to your adventures.
MagicBand+ has some excellent capabilities, including touchpoints for park entry, Lightning Lane access, and connecting to
Disney PhotoPass, plus some cool interactive features like receiving haptic feedback, lights, and vibrations during select attractions and nighttime shows.
Pairing your MagicBand+ with a smartphone isn’t necessary to use it with in-park or resort experiences. However, if you want to adjust the settings, personalize your band (like changing the default light color), or ensure your band stays updated with the latest software, you must connect it to your smart device through the My Disney Experience mobile app. While I don’t think pairing your kids’ MagicBand+ is necessary, you can certainly do so if you want to maximize those interactive experiences. If you decide to link their bands after you arrive, it’s super easy and only takes a few minutes. Just open the My Disney Experience app, go to "MagicBands and More," select "Link a MagicBand or Card," and follow the prompts to pair the MagicBand+ with your phone.
As for some attractions where MagicBand+ really shines, I’d recommend checking out Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where your MagicBand+ will react to elements in the land. The nighttime spectaculars like
Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom will also have your MagicBand+ light up and vibrate along with the show! How cool?
I hope this answers your question, Sara. If you need any more help planning your trip or want recommendations on how to make the most of your visit,
I’m here to assist you.
See you real soon!
Brent