Need Planning Help

[TEK224]

I'm just starting to plan for my 2013 WDW trips and have a few questions.

I'm thinking of a mid-May trip, taking my two adult nieces and their two children, 3 & 6 years old. Then possibly in Sept. taking my other neice and nephew ages 14 & 16. Finally Jan. 2014 will be me only (I think).

I'll probably use my DVC points for our accommodations, but could possibly stay at one of the value resorts for the 1st night of the kids trips (which would probably be a weekend, to save some points).

Here are my questions:

Do they ever offer free dining in May?
When do the fall Love Bugs usually hit WDW?
Have they come up with any character meals geared towards boys yet? Although the 3 & 6 year old would like seeing the princesses, I think they'd like something geared to them more.

For those who have purchased the Disney gift cards at Target, getting the 5% discount, can you cornfirm that I am understanding this right?
The Target Red Card can either be a regular credit card or a debit card linked to a checking account, is that correct? Using either will get you a 5% discount on purchases, including the Disney Gift Card, correct?
Do the Disney gc's come in a stated denomination or can you put any amount on them?
If I wanted the Target card as a debit card, I just take a voided check to the store?

Sorry for all the questions, but these trips will be a little different than normal for me and I'm going to try to start buying the gift cards so I'll have them to pay for any meals, room charges etc.

 

[Brook730]

Ok I only have a few answers for you....
love bugs around usually around In May.
As for character meals for boys best I can tell you is the one with Pooh Tiger Eeyore and Piglet. at least its not princesses.
And to get the Target card linked to you debit card yes I'm alost 100% sure you just bring in your ID and voided check and they can do it that way.
Enjoy your trips.

 

[TEK224]

Lovebugs in May? Yikes! Are they beginning or end of May. I;ve been at WDW in the Fall when they were there. Just can't remember when they start/end. I didn't know they were there in May, too.

While I could tolerate them, I think the little ones would be freaked out.

 

[vicki_c]

Lovebugs in May? Yikes! Are they beginning or end of May. I;ve been at WDW in the Fall when they were there. Just can't remember when they start/end. I didn't know they were there in May, too.

While I could tolerate them, I think the little ones would be freaked out.

May and September. When varies.

To the OP, target Disney gift cards are only sold in fixed amounts and what amounts vary by store. Most have $25 and/or $50.

 

[Brook730]

Usually it is late May and a lot worse if you are out in the middle of the country. I have not been to wdw during their season so I cant tell you how bad they get there sorry.

 

[Suz D]

There is a character meal at Hollywood and Vine that is Disney Channel themed but I'm not sure of the characters (it might be Little Einsteins). Chef Mickey's is Donald, Goofy, Pluto, Mickey & Minnie. Garden Grill at The Land has Mickey, Chip, Dale & Pluto. Tusker House at AK has some classic characters as well.