Hi Amanda!
Welcome back to planDisney. We love to see Guests return with more questions! I just recently got back from Disneyland myself, where I was able to catch Paint the Night. I'm not sure if you saw it during its original debut a few years ago, but it will blow you away. It is quintessential Disneyland magic, and I had a tear or two in my eyes as Tinker Bell glided down Main Street!
You are a planner after my own heart. I love dining packages. There is just something nice about knowing there's a spot saved for you with a great view of the entertainment, allowing for more time in the magic and less time waiting on the curb. I can see that you've done your research and are familiar with the menu offered at the
Plaza Inn for the
Paint the Night package. There seems to be some conflicting information floating around about whether substitutions are allowed, so I called a Cast Member this morning to get some information straight from the source. They confirmed that you would need to speak to the host directly upon arrival to confirm if substitutions were available that day. I do know that there is a plant-based alternative offered, which may be an option for you to consider in lieu of the meatloaf. Technically, anyone 10 and up is considered an adult and would be required to order off the adult menu and pay adult pricing. I know that was likely not the news you were hoping to hear, but I can promise you will have a delicious meal and a fabulous view of the parade no matter how it shakes out!
When you arrive for your meal, you will receive a voucher for each dining package purchased, which will detail your viewing location and reservation time—the time that you should arrive at your viewing area. They ask that people don't arrive more than 10 minutes before this noted time. The last time I did a Plaza Inn dining package, the viewing area was in Town Square just across from the Disneyland Train Station. Currently, it looks to be in the same location for this parade as well, but this is always subject to change. I would be prepared to stand as there is limited curb space for ground seating.
You may want to grab one of the new 70th sweet treats on your way to the viewing area to enjoy while you wait for the parade to start! You can start planning ahead by checking out the
Disney Parks Blog Foodie Guide and earmarking some must-try treats. Grab a 70th Celebration Churro from the cart in Town Square, a Banana Split from
Gibson Girl, or head to
Jolly Holiday for the trifecta of sweet treats—the Celebration Matterhorn Macaroon, 70th Celebration Macaron, or the Mickey Hat Cookie!
Amanda, I sure hope this helped in planning out the magic. The resort is full of celebratory energy in honor of the 70th, and you will be humming the Celebrate Happy theme song before you know it. Here's to an unforgettable visit!
If you have any more questions, you know we are here for you at
planDisney.
See ya real soon!
Tara