Member Homecoming / Park Hours

[tjkraz]

The WDW web site has begun posting park hours for May. Interestingly enough, they are showing MK open until 10pm on 5/25 and Epcot with the ususal 7/9pm closing times on 5/26.

Aren't these the dates for the Member Homecoming events that are supposed to be exclusive to DVC memebers? I can't imagine the parks would stay open those late hours for all guests and STILL have additional exclusive hours for the DVC members.

Hope those hours are simply a typo...

 

[WDWLVR]

Originally posted by tjkraz
The WDW web site has begun posting park hours for May. Interestingly enough, they are showing MK open until 10pm on 5/25 and Epcot with the ususal 7/9pm closing times on 5/26.

Aren't these the dates for the Member Homecoming events that are supposed to be exclusive to DVC memebers? I can't imagine the parks would stay open those late hours for all guests and STILL have additional exclusive hours for the DVC members.

Hope those hours are simply a typo...

You have the right dates but the wrong venues on each date.

5/25 Member Homecoming is at Epcot. It will still be open for Illuminations, but Member Homecoming stays after for a party that runs until Midnight.

5/26 Member Homecoming is at Magic Kingdom starting at 8:30 until Midnight.

 

[OneMoreTry]

We're going to be there that week but are not going to the homecoming. (It would cost us $1800 dollars.)

The homecoming bulletin implies that the "exclusive" part begins after Wishes. When I checked last night, wishes was not scheduled at all that week. Even on other nights that are open till 10. I'll have to check again.

Disney never pushes guest out of the park right after opening. I don't know how they could. It will take more than an hour anyway to get everyone out. I suspect that the DVC members will get a wristband for access to attractions. They will probably rope off a section.

I've got our PS for that day at MK. Looks like we may have to go back another night to see Spectromagic which we missed last time due to rain.

 

[lenshanem]

I have this on another board, but did anyone notice the last week in May had no Wishes posted?!? I'm waiting on June...

 

[tjkraz]

WDWLVR:

Thanks for the correction on the dates. Guess I should have looked first.

The following info was posted by CM 'n2mm' on the parks board:

"26th shows DVC homecoming dinner party--park wide from 6:00 PM-11:00 PM for (3500 ppl). Usually if it's like an eticket night, it usually says that, so I'm guessing they are not going to empty the park since it says park wide. I have seen other events on the calendar where it actually says eticket, but think that means certain rides are open. (not sure). Hope the info helps. Maybe the hours will change again to reflect this function."

The WDW web site shows the MK being open until 9pm on this date. I'm really wondering if those hours are going to change, or if the 9pm to 11pm block is the only "exclusive" period for the Homecoming event.

Incidentally, although it may seem otherwise, I'm really HOPING that DVC delivers everything that they have promised in this event. Personally I couldn't justify the price given the limited details provided. But I honestly hope that those who attend have wonderful stories regarding the quality of the event and the "surprises" along the way. Ultimately I WANT to be insanely jealous and resentful of those who attended, thus making my decision much easier nex ttime they hold a similar event.

 

[David in Manassas]

I know exactly how you feel...I agonized for a couple of months on whether to buy the tickets or not. On Thursday I bit the bullet and bought them...ouch!..but you know...I've had a few unexpected health things crop up lately even though I'm in my 40's..my wife said to go for it...so...come May my 19 yo son and I will be having a 4 day blast at Disney and Universal!

 

[DisneyMeMa]

We are going to MH and are really looking forward to it. I am hopeful DVC will really 'deliver' on these events.
When we bought our tickets for MH my DH reminded me about the pasta dinner at the CR when I did the WDW Marathon in 1995 and for me not to expect too much of MH. The marathon pasta dinner was held the night before the race so the runners could carbo load. There were probably 9K runners that year. A lot of runners and family members, etc. to feed. The dinner was not special at all. No entertainment, no decorations, cold rolls, sauce that tasted like it came from the jar - you get the picture. However, in the total scheme of things, somehow it just added to the experience and excitment. I am so glad we went. IMO, overall Disney did a spectacular job on the marathon and I wish I could do it again. When we talk about MH, we realize that we will enjoy some events more than others, but we think somehow we will remember it as something very special. As Doc would say, stay tuned.

 

[LIFERBABE]

"Light up the Sky" Celebration at Epcot®
Tuesday, May 25, 2004; 8:30 pm to midnight
It's the biggest Welcome Home ever, and it all starts with dessert! Enjoy spoonfuls of sugar under the stars before the sky lights up with IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. After the park closes, you stay! We'll get your feet moving and your heart racing with a DJ party at Future World, including exclusive access to Mission: SPACE and Test Track.


"A Night of Wishes Come True" Party in the Magic Kingdom® Park
Wednesday, May 26, 2004; 8:30 pm to midnight
This unforgettable night begins with a bang, as you view Disney's new Wishes™ fireworks spectacular. After the gates close, Members rule the Kingdom! Enjoy exclusive access to classic Disney attractions and entertainment, plus a meal. Then join us on Main Street U.S.A® for a private viewing of your very own SpectroMagic Parade!


"The Grandest Opening of Them All" at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Thursday May 27, 2004
We'll take you back to the 1800s for an old-fashioned Founder's Day celebration, Disney style. Members will enjoy VIP Access to the Grand Opening ceremony and festivities, plus a special lunch with your Disney Vacation Club neighbors.

Member Homecoming has limited capacity and is sure to fill up quickly. Event tickets go on sale at 9:00 am December 17, 2003, so get ready to call Member Services to purchase yours!


The 2 Park events are listed until midnight. Future World closes at 7p.m. so that would give the organizers plenty of time to clear the area for the DJ Party.

What sections are Test Track and Mission Space in? They may not open those for exclusive access until after Illuminations.

I will have to reread Mary's trip report again on the Press Event she attended as MH activities are very similar to see how they organized their MK event.