What is a Magical Gathering?

[glencoe]

Our family is meeting up in WDW end of July and early Aug. We will be 12 people (7 adults and a 16 13 12 10 6 and 3 )

What does it mean to register as a Magical Gathering? What do they offer? Can we get all our hotel rooms (at the Poly) next to each other?
thanks for the help

 

[Skylarr29]

Here is a link that explains it all.. it is alot of info. http://allearsnet.com/pl/magath.htm They offer special events that are only for parties of eight or more.. they will also help you with your dining plans.

 

[glencoe]

I checked it out but still not sure what exactly they offer. Has anyone done this and what was good, what was a pain w/ a group? We don't need to spend every waking moment w/ each other but some special events would be good.

 

[Skylarr29]

Really the only benefit of registering as a grand gathering would be to take part in the special events just for Magical Gatherings.. ie. Maical Fireworks Voyage, Safari Celebration Dinner, Illuminations dinner and dessert party, and the good morning gathering at Mk. They also will help you plan your adr's but thats about it. all the magical gatherings are at an extra cost to you so you can decide accordingly if it is worth it for your family to partake.

 

[glencoe]

I figured they were extra-what is the "good morning gathering at MK"? I am not familiar with that. Thanks

 

[Skylarr29]

"Magical Fireworks Voyage" -- After bidding farewell to Captain Hook and Mr. Smee on shore, your group will sail with Patch the pirate along Seven Seas Lagoon by Magic Kingdom. This memorable evening includes ideal "seaward" viewing of the "Electrical Water Pageant" and the spectacular new "Wishes" fireworks extravaganza over Cinderella Castle. The voyage features group trivia and song activities and a celebration for special occasions like birthdays, reunions or anniversaries. The irrepressible Patch regales you with tales of Peter Pan on the trip back to shore. Speaking of Peter Pan, he awaits your return to pose for photos and sign autographs. Ages 10 and older, $29.99; ages 3-9, $14.99.

"Safari Celebration Dinner" -- You'll gather in the exotic African coastal city of Harambe at Disney's Animal Kingdom for high adventure on Kilimanjaro Safaris. Your group will journey through the park's authentic jungles and across the sweeping, baobab-studded savannah as you spot giraffes, elephants and other wild African creatures. The experience continues at Harambe's Tusker House Restaurant for an African-inspired dinner, Disney character appearances, "up-close" animal experiences and live entertainment. Ages 10 and older, $59.99; ages 3-9, $19.99.

"International Dinner and IllumiNations Dessert Reception" -- There's no need to jet around the globe to experience dining around the world. At Epcot, international culinary favorites are on the menu for adventurous groups looking for a storybook ending to their day. Children can join in the dinner's special storytelling experience, which is punctuated with a surprise character appearance. A special viewing area is reserved for the evening finale, the nighttime Epcot spectacular "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth." Ages 10 and older, $59.99; ages 3-9, $19.99.

"Good Morning Gatherings" -- Breakfast with famous Disney characters enters a whole new dimension with this new group gathering served up with plenty of morning merriment at Tony's Town Square Restaurant in Magic Kingdom. Your group will not only meet favorite characters but will participate in song-and-dance numbers. Mickey Mouse makes a one-on-one appearance with each guest for photo sessions. Ages 10 and older, $24.99; ages 3-9, $11.99.

 

[rsschneck]

Check the prices if you book. I know we are doing the fireworks voyage in October and the adult price is $34.99 and child price is $19.99

We have done the fireworks voyage once before and it is well worth the cost. Very cool way to view Wishes!

We have not participated in any of the other Grand Gatherings Activities. I know group dining helped out a lot for our family of 14 last May. ADR's for large groups need to be made through group dining because not all restaurants can seat a large group @ 1 table. Sometimes you will be split up and eating at different tables near each other.