Grand Gatherings?

[Mermaid_Ariel]

So, how do you "set up" a Grand Gatherings reservation #? I already have my Poly reservation set, so do I need to call Grand Gatherings and say that I'd like to start a group #? So does everyone else call Grand Gatherings or do they call after they make their reservations and link the #s up? So confused!

 

[SC Mouse Fan]

When we did it, I made all the reservations and had them linked with a Grand Gathering number. Then the two other families made their $200 deposits later. I made all the reservations because I was able to get the 40% off code. I knew if I didn't act fast, we may not get the resort we wanted. I made the reservations without checking with everyone but since it was family it turned out ok. Plus if they decided not to go, the reservation would be canceled if they didn't pay the deposit. I knew everybodies ages and address so the Grand Gathering CM's took care of everything. If you already have the reservations I am sure they can still link them they will just need the reservation numbers.

 

[tnmomof4]

So, how do you "set up" a Grand Gatherings reservation #? I already have my Poly reservation set, so do I need to call Grand Gatherings and say that I'd like to start a group #? So does everyone else call Grand Gatherings or do they call after they make their reservations and link the #s up? So confused!

When I was making our reservations, as soon as I told them we were going to be a party of nine I was told we were a Grand Gathering. I was then transferred to that department. I did have my mom's reservation number to give them. I think you could call now and set up the GG number and then give it to others so they have it when they make their reservations. The others can make all their reservations through the GG department when they call.

 

[hygienejean]

bumping to hear more about the food and characters at the Illuminations Gathering. I have one booked in April for our group of 24.

What characters? What type of food was there for dinner? Was it ethnic or Americanized? What were the desserts and where were they served?

 

[DisneyBride'03]

Call and make ressies as soon as you can

Just got the word from SIL that in fact they are coming...(we are giving them a studio!) Anyway, evrything is booked up for our trip SO much for our Grand Gathering!
Well, they did say to keep calling and check for any cancellations.

Allears has some reviews as well.

 

[ave&audsmom]

We made regular reservations & my best friend book her reservation as well. When I called tonight to request connecting rooms, the guy told me that he couldn't help since we had 8 in our party (both separate reservations...one flying, one driving).

Anyway, he transferred us to Grand Gatherings & they gave us the number. This seemed like a lot of extra work. I was on the phone for over 20 minutes, whereas before they would just add the other party's name in the requests for a connecting room in a matter of a couple minutes.

So, now that we are a Grand Gathering, does anyone have any advice on how to make the most of it? What are the special events?

 

[PLANNER88]

For any that have done the Safari Celebration...what time do you need to meet to do the Safari & about what time does it (the dinner) end? I believe MNSSHP will be on the night we will be doing the Safari Celebration...will we have enough time to get to MK to fully enjoy the MNSSHP that usually starts at 7:00pm?

 

[tnmomof4]

Call and make ressies as soon as you can

Just got the word from SIL that in fact they are coming...(we are giving them a studio!) Anyway, evrything is booked up for our trip SO much for our Grand Gathering!
Well, they did say to keep calling and check for any cancellations.

Allears has some reviews as well.

When is your trip? Do you know when you can make reservations for special GG events? I thought they told me 180 days before arrival, but if not then I can make then now for November. 180 days would be in May, but if you can make them anytime, I should make them now just in case November starts getting booked up.

 

[PLANNER88]

Yes, it is 180 days before arrival.

 

[keb55]

bumping to hear more about the food and characters at the Illuminations Gathering. I have one booked in April for our group of 24.

What characters? What type of food was there for dinner? Was it ethnic or Americanized? What were the desserts and where were they served?

International menu

Around The World Buffet
Canada“Influenced”

White Cheddar Soup


California“Influenced”

California Field Greens layered with Tomatoes, Cucumbers served with a Lite Zinfandel Vinaigrette and Avocado Ranch Dressing



China“Influenced”

Stir fry Vegetables



Mexico“Influenced”

Zucchini, Tomatoes, Peppers, Onions, Corn

and Beans with Cilantro



Japan“Influenced”

Brown Rice with Tofu and Edamame



Norway“Influenced”

Boiled new Potatoes with Dill



Morocco“Influenced”

Spiced Chicken with Tomato and Chic Peas



Germany“Influenced”

Bavarian Roasted Pork with Red Cabbage



France“Influenced”

Burgundy Braised Beef with Mushrooms and Pearl Onions



United Kingdom“Influenced”

Fried Haddock with Tartar Sauce and Lemon



Italy“Influenced”

Cheese Tortellini with Alfredo Cream and Peas

Petit Penne Pasta with Roasted Garlic Marinara



Kids’ Menu

Apple Slices with Caramel Dip

Carrots with Ranch Dip

Fried Chicken Fritters with Barbeque Sauce

Smucke’rs® Uncrustables® PB&J Sandwiches

Macaroni and Cheese

*Children may dine from any of the above menu as well as the Children’s buffet


Desserts : Served in the reserved viewing area

English Berry Trifle
Tiramisu and Fresh Fruit and Berries
Assorted Miniature Pastries
Assorted Home Style Cookies
Chocolate Brownies
Rice Crispy Treats

Event Closed 9/7 - 11/22 for Food and Wine festival

 

[DisneyBride'03]

I still have not received a GG #...was told by Member Services thru DVC that the GG Dept is backed up 203 weeks in assigning numbers???

Unfortuantely for me, this is turning out to be a waste!

Good Luck and fun to everyone else though Will live vicariously through your adventures! lol

 

[PLANNER88]

keb55, thank you so much for letting us know that the Illuminations Dinner for Grand Gatherings will be closed 9/7 - 11/22 for Food and Wine festival. So sad, we will not be able to go now.