Expensive Grand Gathering Events Worth It? Would you do it again?

[phyllisnnj]

Please tell me why you think this is worth it.
Or which event would you do again at these prices?

For example, a regular character breakfast is $19pp and Dinnner is $28pp vs Grand Gathering breakfast event is $40pp and Dinner event is $60pp (basically double the price). Even the Wishes Cruises pootoon boats are cheaper $24pp vs $35pp. At $35pp, I could probably reserve the Grand1 for the fireworks instead of the Magical Fireworks Voyage.

My extended family is going to Disney in August and I would love to do something special/memorable.

From WDW website...
International Dinner and IllumiNations Dessert Reception
Indulge yourself in Epcot with international delights and tantalizing cuisine from around the world. Share the magic of live entertainment that's sure to please your whole gathering. Then enjoy a delicious dessert buffet along with VIP viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Theme park admission is required.
Price: Adults and Juniors - $59.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $24.99
Safari Celebration Dinner
Set off on safari in Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Enjoy a spectacular VIP journey across the rolling savanna. Then dine family-style on an African influenced cuisine at the Tusker House Restaurant with a side of live entertainment, characters and up close animal encounters. Theme park admission is required.
Price: Adults and Juniors - $59.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $24.99
Good Morning Gathering
Begin your day with a Magic Kingdom morning filled with special songs and fun for kids of all ages. Here, classic Disney Characters join you for breakfast and fun at Tony's Town Square Restaurant. You'll even get some one-on-one time for your group with Mickey himself. Theme park admission is required.
Price: Adults and Juniors - $39.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $19.99
Magical Fireworks Voyage
Cast off on a moonlit voyage around the Magic Kingdom Seven Seas lagoon, which provides the perfect viewing location for the Electrical Water Pageant and the all new Disney Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams. Your evening will begin with a mouth-watering array of sumptuous cookies and desserts. You'll then enjoy your moonlit voyage and have fun with Disney trivia and tales of pirates and Peter Pan along the way. Your evening will end with a special Disney meet and greet with Peter himself. Available on a seasonal basis.
Price: Adults and Juniors - $34.99, Children (ages 3-9) - $19.99

 

[zurgswife]

Pesonnelly I think all the prices are rediculous. Grand Gatherings is just not for me...

 

[1000th happy haunt]

I would do the Magical Fireworks Voyage again in an instant. I did it in October 2004 and we had a blast. With the Grand One you pay for everything. If you want refreshments, it's an extra charge. And you're responsible for your own entertainment. With the Magical Fireworks Voyage, each boat has a pirate on board who does trivia and entertains the guests.

The Grand One is nice, but I prefer the Fireworks Voyage.

 

[BratTink]

I bet they are worth the money