I'm a DLR vet, but only have 1 day, help me plan

[camouseketeer]

My dd's 7 and 6 and my parents are going to DLR on Sunday, Nov 22. It is my mom's birthday and she is getting the free one park ticket.

We've been to DLR many times, but we've always gone for multiple days AND we've always had MM.

We won't have either on this trip.

My questions:

How do I plan my morning if we don't have MM? Obviously FL is important to us. I am SOOO used to being one of the first (if not THE first person) on Peter Pan, so I'm not sure how to get on that ride after a MM morning. Suggestions for a plan?

Is it worth hopping for one day? Like I said, we are vets, so we've done CA many times.

If I decide we want to hop, where do I go to upgrade our tickets to hoppers?

What are special Christmas time events that you suggest for us? We will be doing the parade. Not sure about fireworks.

My DD6 has food allergies. I've heard a lot about gingerbread cookies. Who I contact to find out if they can be made allergy safe?

That's at least a start. I'm sure I'll think of more. TIA!

BTW, we are staying at HOJO's in a kid's suite.

 

[DLR29]

If Fantasyland is really important, I would still go there first thing. Even if it's a MM, the lines at 8AM will be much shorter than later in the day. Either that or, if you are planning on staying past the fireworks, you can try the more popular FL rides IMMEDIATELY after the fireworks. The main section of FL is roped off for the fireworks (the 4 dark rides), but once the show is over, it's like another mini rope drop. However, if you don't plan on staying that late, go for the morning.

Hopping in one day is good on a day that is very crowded. Sundays tend to be a bit more crowded than other days. If it's something that your mom would enjoy, then go for it. I'd say, since it's for your mom's birthday and you've already gone to the resort multiple times, have it be her choice. I think you can upgrade your tickets at a ticket booth or guest services (I'm not quite positive about that though).

For Christmas there's obviously Haunted Mansion Holiday and It's a Small World Holiday. There's the classic parade and the fireworks. Both parks are decked out with lots of holiday decorations. There's also lots of holiday treats. The characters will be sometimes wearing holiday costumes. The whole atmosphere is very holiday-ey.

Sorry, can't help about the allergy question.

Have fun!