The dessert party options at Disney World are often expensive or have better alternatives for about the same price. I've got ideas on that for you today.
I also have a quick photography tip, and recent news to share.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
These are notes from this episode. There's much more info included in the audio so be sure to listen to the episode for a better explanation.
In this article
Become a WDW Prep To Go Patron
WDW Prep To Go Patrons pay a little to unlock even more content than what’s on the main podcast feed, such as a private FB Group and exclusive audio that’s released on a private podcast feed.
Â
Become a Patron Now
Call in your non-Disney World questions
If you have a non-Disney World question about websites, podcasts, business, personal stuff, etc., please leave me a SpeakPipe message and I'll put them together for a show at the end of the year. You can do that by downloading the SpeakPipe app or using your computer at https://www.speakpipe.com/WDWPrepToGo.
Dessert party alternatives
Magic Kingdom
Instead of the Ferrytale Wishes Dessert Party ($99/adult) or the Wishes Fireworks Dessert Party ($49/adult), consider dining at California Grill or booking the Pirate and Pals Fireworks Voyage ($69/adult).
Epcot
Rather than booking the Illuminations Sparkling Dessert Party, find a good spot to view the show or book a dining reservation at a restaurant with a view.
Hollywood Studios
There are sometimes dessert parties offered at Hollywood Studios and you should be able to do the various components of those packages a la carte pretty easily, including getting the specialty cupcakes at most of the Quick Service restaurants.
News
- Soarin’ will be closed January 4-summer 2016
- Minnie’s dinner at Hollywood & Vine will now be available as a long-term option
- Same-day Amazon delivery is now available in Orlando (check out these other ways to get groceries during your trip)
- The musical act in Morocco has left and a new musical act is there through January 2
- The miniature railroad in the Germany section of the World Showcase has reopened
- Design-your-own MagicBands will be coming soon to the Space Mountain gift shop
- Skipper Canteen appears to be opening just before Christmas
Featured company
My eBook is a quick way to learn all about how to plan Disney World trips. It comes with a worksheet, touring plans, and maps for each park.
Quick tip of the day
Turn the flash on your camera off, especially during your trip where it rarely is useful.
Subscribe to get new episodes
There are a few ways to get new episodes of WDW Prep To Go (if you're used to listening on the website, subscribe so you can take new episodes with you on your phone)
- Subscribe in iTunes (and please leave a review!)
- Subscribe to the feed
- Listen on Stitcher
7 Comments
I did the Wishes dessert party at Magic Kingdom this past March before they renamed it and increased the price. There are many cool packages in Disney, and you only have so much money so you have to think if something is worth it. My family and I really enjoyed the party. And I don’t regret doing it (it was also less expensive then0. But if you are picking and choosing, I think some of Shannon’s suggested alternatives are better. For one, you can’t see the parade from the party (unless it has moved). Also, you’re not guaranteed a great view of the fireworks. I’m shorter and got stuck in a spot where a huge tree blocked my view of the castle. Considering how much money you are paying, I think getting desserts from one of the quick service restaurants and finding a spot along the parade route might be more enjoyable.
Do you know who is included with the Minnie and Pals dinner? Curious if Daisy and Minnie will be together. Thanks!
Garden Grill? I thought that was in Epcot. Do you mean California Grill?
Sorry! Yes, California Grill. The show notes have been edited.
I am in the middle of listening to this episode, and it still says Garden Grill in the podcast. I realize you won’t go through and change garden to California through that whole section, but maybe upload an edited version with a mention at the beginning, that you misspoke. If I were a novice and didn’t already know exactly what you are talking about, I would be very confused. With Garden Grill being in Epcot, there’s absolutely no way to see Magic Kingdom fireworks from there! Thanks
In the section about Magic Kingdom did you mean California Grill instead of Garden Grill?
Did you mean California Grill instead of Garden Grill for viewing Wishes? Thanks again for the great podcast! It’s always full of great information and tips.