Hi Kristin!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
Dining packages with nighttime show viewing are the BEST! Cancellations do happen. When I have to make a late modification, I literally check the
advanced dining reservation system every day until a time pops up as available. I have two strategies - 1) I take a few hours at night or during the day and just check every few minutes during a two hour time period or 2) I check the week prior to our trip and one to two days prior to our reservation - for this package, people will most likely cancel 48 hours prior to avoid cancellation penalties. On our most recent trip, I snagged a
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop reservation the day prior to the day we wanted to dine.
Also consider the number of your party when searching. I have searched using the total number with the intent to cancel my existing reservation and make a new one and I have tried to modify an existing reservation. If trying to make a new reservation prior to cancelling your existing one, remember that you may have to select a different time frame. Or, you could try making a new reservation for the same time frame as the existing reservation for just two people and when you arrive at the restaurant, ask the Cast Members if they can seat you together. Although there is no guarantee that they can do so, they have been able to accommodate us at other locations when we have asked. Remember that dining package details and showtimes are subject to change, so always double-check just prior to arrival!
Kristin, stay hopeful! Sending dining reservation pixie dust your way so that you can make that additional reservation and put the worry behind you soon!
Magic and memories,
Donyell