Candlelight Processional Dining Package---How necessary is it?

[EMom]

We hope to watch the Candlelight Processional around Dec. 12-16. How necessary is it to make a dining package reservation in order to secure a seat for the CP? With the weather being unpredictable, I prefer to decide that week what night I'd like to try and see the CP. But some websites make it sound like anyone who doesn't make a dining package reservation doesn't have a snowball's chance in &%$^ of ever seeing the CP.

What has your experience been? Any advice?

 

[DJNOWICK]

We've seen the CP every trip we've made around the holidays and we never get the package. We go the week after Thanksgiving and we've always gotten decent seats. The most I recall lining up ahead of time is about 30 minutes. Sometimes we just walk in when the seating is happening because I've forgotten to line up.

 

[WhateverLolaWants]

It's not necessary, but I would recommend lining up as early as possible. We did the package last year, and still lined up at least 45 minutes before the show. We were there I think December 3 for the last show, and I heard a rumor that no one from the standby line even got into the show. Of course, if you opt to see the earlier shows (a lot of people prefer seeing the show in the dark), then you should have a chance because they're not as busy.