Mickey's Backyard BBQ - any opinions?

[tskohout]

I am debating on booking the Mickey's Backyard BBQ dinner show. ANyone have an opinion on it? Will my 3 yr old be entertained?

 

[CarolynNC]

The backyard bbq is my least favorite special dinner at WDW. I've only been once but wouldn't go back. We went in June (several years ago). It was hot and crowded. The food wasn't disney's finest. There were characters but it seemed like bedlam when they were there and they didn't stay long. The lines for the food were long and slow moving. If you were seated away from the center it was hard to see what was happening on the floor in front of the stage. They had line dancing instructions but it was much too crowded to take part if you weren't close. I think they also had someone doing rope tricks but we couldn't see from where we were seated. There were several other activities but for the cost I'd pick Chef Mickeys before I'd pay that much again. Can you tell I thought it was a waste of money?

I've never taken a child as young as 3 so I'm not sure I'd be the best judge but my son and his friend (then about 13) spent the whole time asking if it was time to go yet!

I have read other reviews on this board from people who really enjoyed it so like anything at WDW, there's something for everybody.

 

[tskohout]

thank you for your advise

 

[Kaitysmom]

Yuck! Had an awful time. It was rainy outside and as this is in a pavilion, it was really damp and cold. Someone stole one of our rain ponchos right from under our noses, food was mediocre and characters were absolutely mobbed when they came out to interact. Never again.

 

[psufamilyluvsdis]

NO! We went in Oct and it was INSANE! You couldn't get anywhere near the characters and the food was alright. The performers were good, but my son didn't pay them much attention, it was good for adults! I would definately do a different character meal, in fact we are this time, we're doing CP. I hope I didn't ruin any plans!

 

[hookedup]

We did this when my ds was almost 3. It was a nightmare. We had a LONG wait in line and then trying to scramble for a table.
Me and dh were stressed trying to carry our trays, get food and watch ds (as our hands were full). It was packed and really hot. I know some folks have had a wonderful experience there. I might consider it in cooler weather (we were there in late July) and an older child who can carry a tray and listen to mom and dad. (okay my ds is almost 6 now and he still can't do that - LOL!)