Disney dinner shows have become a popular and exciting addition to the Walt Disney World experience. These unique dining events combine delicious food and beverages with entertaining performances that immerse guests into the magic of Disney.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney enthusiast, attending a dinner show can create unforgettable memories and enhance your overall enjoyment of the theme parks.
Two of the most renowned Disney dinner shows are the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. Both offer all-you-can-eat meals and lively entertainment, tailored to different themes and ambiances.
The Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue takes place in a rustic setting, featuring a talented cast of performers who engage audiences with music and comedy, while Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show transports guests to the tropical paradise of the Polynesian islands, filled with breathtaking dances and captivating stories.
Selecting the ideal Disney dinner show for your vacation will depend on your personal interests, preferences, and budget. No matter which show you choose, you can expect an enchanting evening filled with delightful food, spectacular entertainment, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
As a Disney enthusiast, I have experienced some of the most amazing dinner shows at Disney World that I wouldn’t want anyone to miss. If you’re planning a trip to the magical world of Disney, you must make sure to attend at least one of these dinner shows to make your trip even more memorable.
My Top 10 Disney Dinner Shows
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
This show at Pioneer Hall in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a must-see. With live entertainment, delicious food, and unlimited drinks, this show is perfect for the whole family.
Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show
The Polynesian Luau at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a beautiful celebration of Hawaiian culture and traditions. You can enjoy the hula dance, fire-knife performance, and a delicious island-inspired feast.
Mickey’s Backyard BBQ
This outdoor show at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a great way to enjoy the Florida sunshine while watching your favorite Disney characters perform.
Fantasmic! Dinner Package
This show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is an unforgettable experience that combines fireworks, water effects, and live performers to create a magical nighttime spectacular.
Candlelight Processional Dining Package
I absolutely love the Candlelight Processional Dining Package! It’s the perfect way to enjoy an amazing meal and secure a prime viewing spot for the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. The food is always delicious and the atmosphere is so festive and joyful. I highly recommend this package to anyone visiting Disney World during the holiday season.”
The Diamond Horseshoe
This show at Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland takes you back to the Wild West with a live performance and all-you-can-eat feast.
Pirates and Pals Fireworks Voyage
This boat ride at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is perfect for families who want to enjoy the Magic Kingdom fireworks from a unique perspective.
Wonderland Tea Party
This tea party at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is perfect for children who love Alice in Wonderland. They can enjoy a tea party with Alice and her friends while dressed in their favorite Wonderland attire.
The Edison
This dinner show at Disney Springs features live entertainment and a 1920s-style atmosphere that will transport you back in time.
Dine with an Imagineer
This exclusive dining experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Disney with a member of the Imagineering team.
These are just a few of the amazing dinner shows that Disney World has to offer. Make sure to book your reservations in advance to secure your spot and make your trip even more magical.
Popular Disney Dinner Shows
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
Located at Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is a must-see dinner show that offers a unique, fun-filled experience. This entertaining event features catchy tunes, energetic dance performances, and comedy skits that will have you laughing and clapping along with the performers.
The showtimes usually include three slots per evening at 4PM, 6:15PM, and 8:30PM. When it comes to seating categories, guests can choose from:
- Category 1: $74 for adults / $44 for children ages 3 to 9
- Category 2: $69 for adults / $40 for children ages 3 to 9
- Category 3: $66 for adults / $39 for children ages 3 to 9
Please note that pre-payment in full is required for all reservations.
Disney’s Spirit of Aloha
If you are in search of a captivating and immersive Polynesian experience, look no further than Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. This dinner show takes place at Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort and transports guests to a traditional Hawaiian luau right in the heart of Florida.
During the show, you will be treated to various authentic Polynesian cuisine, including mouthwatering dishes such as barbecued meats, colorful salads, and tropical desserts. As you savor the flavors of the island, you’ll be mesmerized by the enchanting performances of skilled hula and fire dancers, as well as talented musicians playing traditional instruments.
Disney’s Spirit of Aloha offers a memorable evening of food, entertainment, and a glimpse into the vibrant culture of the Polynesian islands, making it an unforgettable addition to your Disney World vacation.
Dining and Entertainment Experience
Food and Drink Options
Disney dinner shows offer a wide range of food and drink options to satisfy all palates. Guests can enjoy classic American cuisine, like fried chicken, BBQ pork ribs, and cornbread, or opt for international dishes, such as a luau-inspired menu featuring fish and chips, bangers and mash, or small plates. Desserts, like strawberry shortcake, are also available to satisfy any sweet tooth cravings.
Adult beverages, like beer, wine, and sangria, are often included, with non-alcoholic alternatives such as milk, coffee, and soft drinks available. Disney also understands dietary needs and offers options for guests with special food requirements.
| Food Options | Drink Options |
|---|---|
| Fried chicken | Beer |
| BBQ pork ribs | Wine |
| Cornbread | Sangria |
| Baked beans | Coffee |
| Strawberry shortcake | Milk |
Live Performances
Not only do Disney dinner shows offer amazing food, but they also provide top-notch entertainment. Reservations are typically required, and these dining experiences are hosted at various Disney World resorts with dining options tailored to the theme of the live performance.
Many of the shows provide a fusion of comedy and live music, ensuring an enjoyable, family-friendly evening for all ages. Guests have the opportunity to witness skits, acrobatic performances, and interactive dancing, while some shows even incorporate beloved Disney characters.
- Comedy: Enjoy a relaxed environment filled with humor and laughter as comedic performers interact with the audience and provide amusing anecdotes.
- Dancing: These shows often feature synchronized dance performances, themed to the show’s immersive experience.
- Luau: Experience a Polynesian-themed evening with a traditional luau, showcasing mesmerizing dances and activities inspired by the islands.
- Performances: Marvel at high-energy acrobatics, athleticism, and artistry showcased by Disney’s talented performers.
In the end, Disney dinner shows not only offer delicious food options but also promise endless entertainment for a memorable evening.
Showtimes and Seating
Scheduled Showtimes
Disney dinner shows usually offer multiple showtimes per evening to accommodate different schedules. For example, Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue has three showtimes during an evening: 4 PM, 6:15 PM, and 8:30 PM 1. Make sure to check each dinner show’s specific scheduled timing to plan your visit accordingly.
Seating Categories
The seating categories at Disney dinner shows are typically divided into different pricing and location tiers. Using Hoop-Dee-Doo as an example once again, there are three seating categories:
- Category 1: $74 for adults / $44 for children ages 3-9 1
- Category 2: $69 for adults / $40 for children ages 3-9 1
- Category 3: $66 for adults / $39 for children ages 3-9 1
Each seating category offers different views of the stage and access to seating areas. Category 1 is considered the prime seating location, while Categories 2 and 3 are further away from the stage. However, all categories still provide a good view of the show.
In addition to the general seating categories, some Disney dinner shows also provide wheelchair-accessible seating options 2. Be sure to inquire about these additions while making a reservation if needed.
Lastly, keep in mind that a reservation and pre-payment in full is required for most Disney dinner shows 1. This ensures that you have a reserved seat in your chosen category and can enjoy the show without any hassle.
Additional Disney Dinner Show Experiences
Character Dining
Character Dining experiences offer a unique opportunity to meet and interact with Disney Characters while enjoying a delicious meal. Many dining locations across Walt Disney World, including those in Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs, offer Character Dining with different themes and characters. These experiences usually require reservations, so plan accordingly.
Epcot Dinner Shows
Epcot offers a range of dining experiences within its World Showcase pavilions, each representing a different country and culture. While not all pavilions offer dinner shows, there are some that provide live entertainment and performances as you dine.
For example, the Hollywood Brown Derby features live music, and various festivals held throughout the year at Epcot also include additional theming and entertainment options.
Hollywood Studios Dinner Shows
Hollywood Studios specializes in dining experiences that transport guests to a world of glitz and glamour. One of its most popular dinner shows is the Fantasmic! Dinner Package, which offers a dinner reservation at one of three selected restaurants – Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, Hollywood & Vine, or The Hollywood Brown Derby – followed by reserved seating for the nighttime spectacular Fantasmic!.
The packages come in three categories: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3, each offering different seating locations and price points.
Tickets for these packages must be booked in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Hollywood Studios also offers a variety of other themed dining experiences, from Sci-Fi themed drive-in restaurants to immersive 1950s Hollywood diners, providing a range of options for guests seeking entertainment while they eat.
Planning Your Disney Dinner Show Experience
Reservations and Pre-payment
When planning a Disney dinner show experience, the first thing you should consider is making reservations. Due to the high demand, it is highly recommended to book your spot at one of the sensational Disney dinner shows well in advance.
You can reserve a space up to 180 days before the show you would like to attend, ensuring you don’t miss out on this unique family experience during your vacation1. Keep in mind that some dinner shows, like the popular Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, might require pre-payment3.
To make a reservation, you can visit the official Disney website or call their reservation hotline. For international travelers, consider checking the specific phone number for your region to avoid any issues.
My Disney Experience App
Another essential aspect of your Disney dinner show experience is downloading and utilizing the My Disney Experience App. This app helps you manage every aspect of your Disney vacation, including dining, park tickets, and fast passes. Not only does the app allow you to make and modify reservations, but it also provides useful information about restaurants, show times, and park maps.
Moreover, the app serves as a hub for all things Disney, from selecting restaurants, viewing menus, tracking your dining plans, and even locating the nearest restrooms within the theme parks. It is an indispensable tool that will save you time and effort during your family’s Disney adventure5.
In summary, planning your Disney dinner show experience is as easy as making reservations well ahead of time, pre-paying for your tickets, and navigating the park with the help of the My Disney Experience App. Enjoy a magical and unforgettable night full of entertainment, laughter, and a feast fit for royalty while creating lasting memories with your family.
Special Events and Dining Packages
Disney dinner shows offer a unique combination of entertainment and dining experiences. This section focuses on two special event categories and their associated dining packages: Fireworks and Dessert Parties, and Garden Rocks and Candlelight Processional Dining Packages.
Fireworks and Dessert Parties
Disney’s Magic Kingdom is known for its spectacular fireworks displays, one of the most popular being the Happily Ever After nighttime show. To enhance your viewing experience, Disney offers Fireworks and Dessert Parties – events that combine reserved seating and an array of delicious desserts. Character dining experiences, like those featuring The Lion King, can also be part of these special dessert parties.
Another example is the Polynesian-themed dinner show at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This family-style feast offers a taste of Polynesian culture with traditional dishes and desserts, combined with lively music and entertainment.
| Event | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Happily Ever After Dessert Party | Magic Kingdom | Reserved seating, assorted desserts, and character appearances |
| Polynesian Themed Dinner Show | Polynesian Village Resort | Family-style feast, Polynesian culture, live music, and desserts |
Garden Rocks and Candlelight Processional Dining Packages
The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is home to the Garden Rocks Dining Package, which includes a meal at select Epcot restaurants and reserved seating for the Garden Rocks live music performances. Pair your meal with the exciting live music series featuring popular bands and artists from various genres.
Another Epcot favorite is the Candlelight Processional Dining Package, which is available during the holiday season. This package includes a meal at a participating Epcot restaurant and guaranteed seating for the Candlelight Processional, a beloved holiday event featuring live music, celebrity narrators, and a mass choir performing at the America Gardens Theatre in the Germany Pavilion.
| Event | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Garden Rocks Dining Package | Epcot | Live music, meal at select restaurants, reserved seating |
| Candlelight Processional Dining Package | Epcot | Holiday music, celebrity narrations, meal at select restaurants, reserved seating |
Unique Dining Experiences at Disney Resorts
Disney World Resorts offer a variety of unique dining experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. In this section, we will focus on three such experiences that stand out from the rest: Nosh Pit at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Rose & Crown Pub at Epcot, and California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Nosh Pit at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
At the Nosh Pit in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, guests can treat themselves to a taste of Polynesia as they enjoy a flavorful and immersive dinner show. This dining experience features a menu inspired by the diverse flavors of the South Pacific and includes items such as:
- Roasted meats
- Fresh seafood dishes
- Tropical fruit salads
While enjoying their meal, guests will be entertained by a variety of Polynesian performers showcasing traditional music, dance, and stories. The Nosh Pit is the perfect place for those looking to experience a unique cultural excursion while visiting Disney World.
Rose & Crown Pub at Epcot
The Rose & Crown Pub at Epcot is an authentic British-style pub located in the United Kingdom Pavilion. The pub offers classic British dishes with a modern twist, such as:
- Beer-battered fish and chips
- Bangers and mash
- Shepherd’s pie
In addition to the savory dishes, guests can enjoy a wide selection of imported British beers, ales, and ciders to complement their meal. The cozy atmosphere and the live music make this pub an ideal spot for enjoying a lively and unique dining experience in the heart of Epcot.
California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
California Grill is a fine dining restaurant located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, offering picturesque views of the Magic Kingdom and a diverse menu inspired by Californian cuisine. Some highlights of the menu include:
- Hand-rolled sushi
- Wood-fired pizzas
- Seasonal grilled dishes
A popular feature of California Grill is their “Celebration at the Top” event. This special dining experience includes a private observation deck where guests can enjoy fireworks and a magical view of the Magic Kingdom. With its blend of delicious food and stunning views, California Grill provides an unforgettable dining experience for guests visiting Disney World Resorts.
Accessibility and Inclusiveness
Wheelchair-Accessible Seating
Disney dinner shows, like many other experiences at Disney parks, offer wheelchair-accessible seating for guests with disabilities. For example, at popular dinner shows such as the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, wheelchair-accessible seats would be available to ensure that guests using mobility devices can comfortably enjoy the show.
Additionally, the Disney Parks website provides detailed information on services for guests with disabilities, including specific accessibility features at each park and attraction.
Accommodating Dietary Needs
Disney Parks understand the importance of accommodating various dietary needs at their dinner shows. For example, at the Tusker House, a buffet-style dining experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests with dietary restrictions can find a wide range of options to suit their needs.
Cast members are trained to help guests navigate the menu and identify suitable options for different dietary requirements, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan choices. If you have specific dietary concerns, it is recommended that you notify Disney in advance when making dinner reservations to ensure an enjoyable and worry-free dining experience.
By offering wheelchair-accessible seating and accommodating diverse dietary needs, Disney Parks take measures to ensure their dinner shows are accessible and inclusive, allowing guests of all abilities and preferences to enjoy their time at the parks fully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Disney dinner shows?
At Disney World, popular dinner shows include Hoop Dee Doo Revue and Disney’s Spirit of Aloha. Each show offers unique entertainment and dining experiences for guests to enjoy.
How much do Disney dinner shows cost?
Prices for Disney dinner shows vary depending on the show and seating options. Typically, they can range from around $50 to over $100 per adult, not including tax and gratuity. Children’s prices are usually lower. Keep in mind that prices are subject to change.
Are character dining experiences available?
Yes, character dining experiences are available at various Disney World and Disneyland locations. Examples include Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom, and Storyteller’s Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel.
Which shows are at Disney Springs?
Disney Springs offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including themed restaurants and live performances. However, it does not have any dedicated dinner shows like those found within the Disney parks or resorts.
How can I reserve a Disney dinner show?
To reserve a Disney dinner show, you can make dining reservations online or through the My Disney Experience app, both of which offer a convenient way to access availability and book reservations up to 60 days in advance, depending on the restaurant and location.