First family- are they ever large families?

[Dawnlight]

I know the chances are very slim, even on a non-peak day, but I was wondering about being chosen as first family to open a park.

I've read elsewhere that it's good be among the first at the turnstiles, to chat up the CMs, dress in themed and matching clothing, and to not suggest that you're interested in being first family.

I've also seen that there might be a roster; one day a family of 3, another a family of 5, and so one. I wonder if there are larger families chosen for first family. We are a family of 8, going down with my mother too, so a total party of 9. Does this decrease likelihood of being chosen?

Our vacation marks the one year anniversary of my mother's back surgery. Last year, I and 4 of my children (who were homeschooled at the time), spent a month with her during and after surgery. She had been in so much pain, could only walk for short periods of time, and was debilitated by her back issues. This will be such a celebration of her ability to live relatively pain-free and living with greater mobility; to be first family would add some serious pixie dust to this vacation.

Any advice from former first families?

 

[JennaDeeDooDah]

I know the chances are very slim, even on a non-peak day, but I was wondering about being chosen as first family to open a park.

I've read elsewhere that it's good be among the first at the turnstiles, to chat up the CMs, dress in themed and matching clothing, and to not suggest that you're interested in being first family.

I've also seen that there might be a roster; one day a family of 3, another a family of 5, and so one. I wonder if there are larger families chosen for first family. We are a family of 8, going down with my mother too, so a total party of 9. Does this decrease likelihood of being chosen?

Our vacation marks the one year anniversary of my mother's back surgery. Last year, I and 4 of my children (who were homeschooled at the time), spent a month with her during and after surgery. She had been in so much pain, could only walk for short periods of time, and was debilitated by her back issues. This will be such a celebration of her ability to live relatively pain-free and living with greater mobility; to be first family would add some serious pixie dust to this vacation.

Any advice from former first families?

I have actually never seen a family of 3 or fewer chosen at Magic Kingdom. It gives me hope that you have. I have seen large parties, though. I never really counted, but it was certainly more than just 4 or 5. Here is a family of 7 opening Magic Kingdom: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nn416Bd0__8
So I'd say you have as much of a chance as anybody.

 

[North of Mouse]

Our dd & hubby, also ds & wife have both been chosen as 'first' families. The only things they did was just be early (as they 'always' enjoy being). This was on different years, of course, but dd & hubby were just a couple - were not wearing theme clothing at all. Ds & wife had two children pre teen, and none of them had on theme clothing either! So really don't know what the criteria is to be chosen. Guess it's mostly luck of the day!! Good luck and

 

[MakiraMarlena]

It's completely and totally random. It's just whether the CMs on duty that day feel like choosing you or not. There are some things you can do that might help to make your group stand out and therefore get their attention, but that doesn't mean your group will get chosen. It's entirely possible that the CM on duty that day will decide to look for guests who aren't doing anything attention-getting. Yes, on occasion they choose larger groups.