Where to stand/sit for MVMCP Parade?

[Familymoon]

It is our first trip, and thus, our first MVMCP - it is also my DD's 4th birthday and I hope for her to get a little special attention, so we want really spectacular spots to watch (and hopefully interact).

We have a PS at CRT at 4:15 - where shall we go from there?

Thanks for any input!

 

[DemonLlama]

My best advice is to enjoy the party and take in the second parade. We've done this both times we've been, and it's much more laid back.

At the front of the park, from the time the gates open, and those in Tomorrowland are admitted to the rest of the park, people sit on the curb on Main Street waiting for the first parade.

For the second one, we've secured a great spot in front of the Emporium on Main Street, just across from the Candy Shop and with a good angle on the parade coming around the hub towards us, about a half hour before parade time. Last year, the castmembers were walking about chatting with people, and one of them asked my daughter to help her "warm up" the crowd by leading her favorite Christmas carol.

We have usually perused the Candy Shop right beforehand, and enjoy the half hour by munching on our favorite chocolates.

This past year, we took turns, one parent with one child, going into the Emporium to pick out good stocking stuffers for the other two. On Christmas morning, at the resort, we each got to open our week-long-stuffed stocking.

After dinner at Cinderella's, I'd get the wristband, enjoy Tomorrowland, and head through Fantasyland to get the free picture taken, then enjoy the rides in Fantasyland for a while. Both times we've enjoyed a nearly empty Fantasyland for a good while before lines begin to build. I guess most poeple plop down for the first parade, or race to the headliners, but it's always been a great time for our family in the back of the park.

Find a good spot near the castle to watch the fireworks, and be sure you don't have any trees between you and the castle, which was a mistake we made (once). Since you will be there when the park closes before the party, you will be able to see the fireworks at that time.

Hope some of the above helps!