Disney Preserves the Magic with New Character Experiences!
Shaina Brainard
1/21/21
During the COVID-19 pandemic it is inevitable that changes had to occur at Walt Disney World to keep cast members and guests safe. The question I keep getting asked is, “Do you still feel the magic?” And after my most recent visit, the answer is YES!
Disney has done a great job preserving the magic and creating space for families to make memories that will last the lifetime. They have taken that restrictions necessary for safety, and developed some fun and new ways to deliver the magic. My new favorite Disney experiences are the character cavalcades. I actually hope these cavalcades stick around! These cavalcades could happen at any time, in any of the four parks. Suddenly you will hear music start playing and shortly after floats, boats, or cars full of your beloved Disney characters will appear. Because the times of these cavalcades aren’t posted, you don’t find crowds of people lining the streets like the days of old. And as a result, the characters in these cavalcades really do a great job of interacting with the guests. Some of my favorite moments on our trip was when Captain Hook spotted my nephew who was in a Hook costume and gave him the evil eye, or when Cinderella blew kisses to my daughter who was so excited to see her. It was still personal and exciting.
But cavalcades aren’t only place you will spot characters around the parks. Actually, you never know where or when you may come across a Disney character. During our trip we were surprised to come across Belle outside her home in Fantasyland, Chip and Dale on the rooftops in Frontierland, or Chewy and Rey working on a landspeeder in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It seemed that every time we turned around we were surprised by who we saw. Characters still kept distance but are placed in locations that allowed for personal interaction and photographs or selfies.
Finally, if you want to make sure you connect with Mickey and friends, there are modified character meals still available. We enjoyed dinner at Minnie’s Seasonal Dine at Hollywood & Vine, and not only was it delicious, but the character interaction was amazing! Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto really put on a show, interacting with kids and adults alike, pausing at a distance in fun poses for photo ops. It was a lot of fun and easy way to connect with some of our favorite characters.
Overall, although there have been changes at Walt Disney World, I don’t think that Disney has lost the magic. I actually think seeing the characters appear when you least expect it, and not waiting for hours on end for the meet and greets, has added an element of magic I didn’t expect. I would love to help you experience the magic as well! Follow me at http://www.facebook.com/shainabrainard.wft or email me at shaina@wishesfamilytravel.com to discuss your future travel plans!