aa4mom,
When you check in at the port and get your key to the world card, there will be a series of letters on them showing your dining rotation, ie plaplap. Meaing Parrot Cay, Lumiere's etc. Not a lot of advanced notice, but a little better than waiting to get to your stateroom since you'll want to make reservations as soon as possible. We were on the eastern last Feb. I think we picked Wed night for Palo. You'll not want to miss your first night at animators. When you go to make your reservations they will have a board up showing the special dining events through the week, it helps you make your decision.
Bon voyage!