Hi Erin!
I'm so happy you sailed over to the Disney Parks Moms Panel and love hearing that you have a Walt Disney World vacation in the books. I foresee many adventures in Never Land and rides on Peter Pan's Flight in your future!
Like Peter Pan, your son will "never grow old" when he turns three on your vacation. That's because when you START your trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth, he will be two years old, so he will not need a park ticket for the duration of your vacation.
No one wants to have to walk the plank when it comes to the dining rules, so I totally respect you for asking this question! As for Character Dining, while he's two, he can eat for free and to his heart's content...just like the Lost Boys would in Neverland! So strategically, you could make your reservations for character meals before he turns three. Some of our all-time favorites are Chef Mickey's and The Crystal Palace. In fact, I'll always remember celebrating my son's birthday at Crystal Palace as he was practically COVERED in mac and cheese!
But do you hear Tick-Tock the Crocodile? Once your son turns three, technically his meal should be paid for since he falls in that new age range. But hey, he may be super excited about graduating to the kids' meal menu and having new options!
Birthdays at Walt Disney World are the absolute best!Here are a few ideas to make the pixie dust fly for him and celebrate his special day:
Get him a Birthday Button from your Disney Resort Hotel at Check-In, at Guest Relations at all the Theme Parks and Disney Springs, or at all ticketing windows. It may seem like a small little token, but Cast Members and fellow Guests will be constantly sending him well wishes.
For a special birthday keepsake, get Birthday Mickey Ears that can be embroidered with his name from The Chapeau in Magic Kingdom.
Plan a Special Delivery or Experience with Disney Floral and Gifts. With a variety of packages and individual gifts, you can customize your selection for your birthday boy! Whether he's a fan of pirates, Pixar pals, or Mickey Mouse, there's a special gift for every Disney fan.
Like Tinker Bell, fly back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel if you have more questions!
Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust,
Sherry