I can now say that I've experienced ALL parts of the FSF both with and without the Premium Package. Now I feel I can answer the big question, is a package necessary or worth it?
Is the package necessary?
Parade: No. We were able to see the parade again from around the Star Tours/Backlot Express area. This time we waited about 20 mintues outside, because there were people already there. However, the last time we stood there, only 5 minutes before was needed.
Sing-along: No. We arrived for the tickets 12:30 and could choose any time from 1:30 to 7pm. We chose 2:30. The return time was 1:50 to 2:20. We returned back at 1:55 and waited about 15 minutes in the shaded queue. The cm seated us in the first row because of ds' w/c. However there were front seats available on both sides of the theater, just not the center. Only the first 3 rows behind us were reserved for the package. Closer to show time, those seats were filled in with non-package guests, as were the two seats in the front row beside me.
Fireworks: Yes and No. To see the stage in person, yes, or get there early for the dance party and stay. To see the stage show on the big screen of Idol, no. Also better viewing of fireworks elsewhere than the package.
Why did we do the package twice? Originally we did it to get into the Premiere Theater faster. We ended up loving the dessert party so much on opening day we bought a 2nd package. Again the dessert party was our favorite.
Was it worth it? Adding up each thing we ate and each drink, it added up quickly, even without any alcohol. Each parade it would have cost over $50 to eat the snacks we had and the bottled sodas/waters. That was one ticket paid for. Dh drank a lot of cans of soda at the dessert. DS a few bottled waters. I had at least 5 cups of the kid's punch that tastes like POG from the Poly. Add in the tickets for the sing-along, and yes, I think it was worth it. I'm definitely glad we did the package. It was a fun experience.
How could the package be made better in the future? I think check-in at the Backlot Express and snacking there in the air conditioning and with seating would be great. Then everyone get escorted to the parade viewing before it begins. Lunch isn't served there til 11:30 so there would be plenty of time to clean up before lunch. Both our parties rained, and we ended up in Disney Jr. for the dessert. I loved that location and think it would be great to have the party there every night and walk the guests over to the firework viewing just before show time.
thanks! I just read your report of your experience. Really enjoyed reading and seeing the pictures! Thanks for posting it! Looks like you all had a great time!
question - was it the bigger stuffed sven they sold or the mini one?
Thank you. We did!
The Sven was bigger, not mini. He's in dh's hands on day 2. A previous poster said theirs fell apart at the antlers. My son's has held up great.
Now following that thread too. Thanks!
Thanks. You're welcome.
