Parades, fireworks, night time show help

[kristidiaz1]

So much has changed in the parks since our last trip in 2014, plus now we have a toddler to add to the mix. We're also travelling with grandparents. For these reasons & more we're open to all the experiences/dining packages that come with reserved viewing for our convenience and sanity, even if they're not at our 1st choice restaurants. We're pretty casual and aren't expecting fine dining.

My head is starting to spin and we don't go until September...can someone tell me if I'm missing anything?

MK:
Dining package at Tony's for the parade
For HEA-it's only the dessert party, no FP anymore right?

AK:
ROL dining pkg (We're thinking Tusker House)

EP:
Only option for Illuminations is the Frozen dessert party?

HS:
Fantastic dining pkg (prob Mama Melrose)
SW fireworks-the fireworks dessert party

Sorry so long. Anything I missed? Anything in the list you recommend? Thanks!!

 

[mesaboy2]

No FP for HEA, correct.

 

[deedubb]

You can get a FP+ for Illuminations, but it is Tier 1 so then you lose out on Soarin', Test Track and FEA. Sometimes you can snag FP+ for it after you have done your 3 FP for the day.

 

[MrKnight]

For Illuminations at Epcot there is also an option to book a Fireworks Cruise, this could be an extra special option:

http://www.wdwinfo.com/recreation/fireworks.htm#illumcruisebasic

http://www.disunplugged.com/2009/07/24/illuminations-cruise-at-epcot/ (Kathy Werling's review of this experience)

 

[JerseyJanice]

My last two trips in October 2016 and September 2017, the parks were slammed especially MK and Epcot.

However, we saw Illuminations several times both trips and had no problem finding good viewing spots a few minutes before the show. There is a ton of room around the World Showcase.

Unless you can’t get a Frozen Ever After Fastpass or you have a burning desire to eat sweets with copious amounts of blue dye, there is no need to spring for the Frozen dessert party.