As we’ve shared previously, while things are a bit “different” at Walt Disney World during this reopening phase since the pandemic closure, the Disney parks, resorts, and restaurants are committed to offering lots of Disney magic, within the health and safety guidelines. And while there are a number of policies in place for dining – that include limited character experiences – Guests who still want to dine with Mickey and some of his best friends, are still able to! So let’s chat about what you can expect when you go.
First, as noted, the ‘traditional’ character meal – where the characters come around to each table, stop to spend time signing autographs and taking photos and giving hugs – isn’t available at the moment. What Disney has done however, is offer some modified character dining experiences, where characters still come out to visit – just without the tableside greetings.
In each restaurant, the characters will appear individually for a short walkthrough of the restaurant. During this time, they’ll be waving and interacting with everyone and guests are, of course, encouraged to wave and say hello as well. Have your cameras ready because this will be one of the times to take pictures of your favorite friends! After each character has finished his/her promenade, all the dining characters will appear together for a little celebration. More waving and more picture time – and perhaps even a socially-distant selfie may happen. Just remember that while you can take as many pictures and videos as you like, you must remain at your table while doing so. And while autographs are, of course, not happening at the moment, some dining locations are offering instead, a “signed” special card from the characters, which makes a wonderful souvenir.
So what character experiences are available? Currently at this writing, you can reserve character dining at the following restaurants:
Epcot – Garden Grill: See some of your favorite Disney Characters while feasting on delicious fare—with a heaping helping of fun! Hungry for a little mealtime magic? Chip, Dale and their Disney pals will parade through the restaurant saying hello, as guests enjoy an all-you-care-to-enjoy, family-style meal. Guests will also experience an ever-changing array of sights, and tastes, as they slowly turn about this rotating restaurant, taking in such scenes as a rainforest, farmhouse, thunderstorm, sandstorm and prairie from the nearby Living with the Land attraction.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Hollywood and Vine: You’re invited to join Minnie and her friends at delightful dining parties throughout the year! The mouse-with-the-mostest hosts sensational soirees that mix festive music, décor, and tantalizing menu items. This is your chance to celebrate with popular Disney Characters—perfectly dressed for each season. Note that while Hollywood and Vine has traditionally been a buffet, with the current health and safety guidelines, food will be served family style instead.
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Disney’s Riviera Resort – Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera: Enjoy Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends as you start your morning at this beautiful rooftop restaurant offering an exclusive storybook dining experience. While enjoying breakfast and the bird’s eye views, Mickey and his friends are excited to celebrate with you! As part of this new Character Dining experience, all Guests will be able to see Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck as they parade through the restaurant in their stylish outfits unique to Topolino’s Terrace!
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Chef Mickey’s: Character Dining and an enhanced all-you-care-to-eat family-style menu will begin on December 16 at Chef Mickey’s. Throughout the dining experience, Mickey Mouse and some favorite pals will make surprising appearances in each of the dining rooms. See them move throughout the restaurant, waving hello as rollicking music fills the air. This former buffet is now an all-you-care-to-eat family-style meal, located in a bright, happy space that is filled with Disney magic and fun for all ages.
It’s important to note that these are the offerings *at the moment* so expect that things can – and will – change in the coming months, as Disney revises and increases options. Additionally, you’ll also want to be aware that while Cinderella’s Royal Table is now also open for reservations, at this time, princesses are not scheduled to make any appearances. (While Cinderella has briefly been seen here, it definitely should not be something to expect if you plan a reservation at this location.)
The magic at Walt Disney World is still there, and while yes it’s a bit different, there are still all kinds of ways to experience character dining fun!
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