Even if you don’t live near a Disney theme park, you can still experience the magic of Disney close to home with Disney on Ice. Expect an evening of unique entertainment for the whole family featuring beloved characters dancing and twirling on ice. It’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy world-class skating and the wide-eyed wonder for which Disney is renowned. To maximize the fun factor, check out these 12 quick but essential tips for Disney on Ice with kids in 2024.
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View more View lessYou must bundle up a bit when seeing a show with the word “ice” in the title, even if it’s warm outside. I was surprised, however, to see many children and adults sporting tank tops or t-shirts with shorts at the Disney on Ice performances that my family attended.
As parents, we are all so busy remembering the date of the next recital and whose turn it is to feed the dog that it can be easy to overlook the obvious. Don’t let your little ones shiver throughout this chilly show. Wear layers and bring a light jacket or a blanket to stay cozy when watching Disney on Ice with kids.
Before attending Disney on Ice for the first time, I didn’t realize there was more than one themed show from which to choose. In fact, there are five different themes in total! Choices vary according to location and performance date. Pick the Disney on Ice 2024 show close to home that will please your entire family.
Your kids may have their hearts set on seeing specific characters from their favorite movies at Disney on Ice, like Tinkerbell or Lightning McQueen. Before you go, discuss which Disney stars they can expect to see. (Use the Disney on Ice 2024 bulleted list above.)
Explain to children that their favorite character may not be skating in the show. Thankfully, no matter which Disney on Ice performance you choose, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will make a special appearance.
The first time my family went to Disney on Ice, we saw all sorts of Disney characters. But my 4th-grade daughter was shocked when the lights turned on. She said, “It’s over already? Where are the other characters? I thought we were going to see Cinderella and Elsa!”
Although disappointed, she still declared the show “The most awesome thing ever!”
Dimmed, dramatic lighting, special effects, and even fire add excitement and drama to a Disney on Ice show. To add to the fun, Disney offers plenty of light-up electronic doodads for sale.
If your kids are like mine, they’ll beg throughout the event to purchase a glowing toy. To avoid spending tons of cash, it’s a good idea to pack your own magic instead. Buy affordable glow sticks, necklaces, and bracelets in advance and bring them to the show.
Also, check out these light-up spinning wands and LED party supplies available from Amazon without the hefty markups. Keep these affordable toys hidden and give them as a surprise gift once your family reaches the ice rink parking lot or your select seats.
Increase the fun factor with full Disney costumes for young kids. Note that Disney on Ice does not allow costumes for attendees aged 14 and older.
Preschoolers and other young children love dressing up like their favorite Disney princess, Toy Story character, or other Disney star. You can save these outfits for Halloween or your next trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland with kids.
Just because parents can’t wear a complete Disney character costume doesn’t mean you can’t get into the Disney spirit. Find an assortment of wearable options for children, teens, and adults at Disney Store.
All ages can make Disney on Ice more memorable by wearing Mickey ears or Disney t-shirts, hoodies, and other clothing. (Of course, you will want to remove any distracting hats for the sake of other viewers during the performance.)
You might wonder if your child has the attention span for this type of performance. Before you go, explain to young children how the evening will go, from drive time and parking to crowds, inside voices, and expected temperature. Clarify that they will need to sit still throughout the whole show. Understanding what to expect in advance makes it easier for little ones.
Different shows vary in length, but plan on spending about 1.5 to 2 hours at this ice show, including a 15-20 minute intermission.
Disney on Ice sometimes offers an optional Character Experience for an additional charge. The preshow add-on includes a dance party, crafting, and interactive time with some favorite Disney friends. For 2024, enhance your Disney on Ice experience with this extra offering at Frozen & Encanto and Magic in the Stars.
Snacks like cotton candy and snow cones are available for purchase at Disney on Ice. However, it will be more affordable and healthier if you pack snacks from home.
Don’t bring a huge cooler filled with food, but your local Disney on Ice venue will typically not mind if you bring a few small snacks for children. Pack simple items like protein bars, crackers, and dried fruits. For additional suggestions, see my travel snack ideas.
The wonder of Disney on Ice isn’t limited to the ice rinks. Surprise kids with printable Disney on Ice tickets. Then, get your family pumped before the live show by watching Disney movies that will be featured in your particular performance. Disney coloring, crafts, puzzles, and games add to the fun at home.
The sooner you book, the better choice of seats you’ll get for your night of Disney. Ticket pricing varies, with front row tickets sold at a premium.
Children under 2 years of age are admitted free of charge if they sit on a parent or guardian’s lap.
There’s no reason to pay full price for tickets if you can get them at a discount, right? I’ve seen discounted Disney on Ice ticket prices from Groupon and Undercover Tourist. You can save up to $20 per ticket order. Take a peek before you buy those seats!
Discover how to save money on your Disney World vacation with these Disney World Resort Hotel discounts.
Families who like Lightning McQueen and the Disney Cars franchise will love these Disneyland Cars Land tips.
Set sail with Mickey Mouse and friends with these tips for choosing a Disney Cruise.
Read my review of Disneynature’s Bears to see why your family will love watching this heart-touching and educational Disney movie together at home.
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Have you ever seen Disney on Ice with kids? Do you have any questions or tips to share? Let us know in the comments below!
A Note from The Travel Mama: My family was once hosted by Disney on Ice by Feld Entertainment. We have subsequently paid for tickets ourselves. All opinions are mine, as always.
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Colleen Lanin, MBA, is the founder and editor Travel Mamas and Grownup Getaways. She is an expert in family travel and travel for adults aged 18 to 88. As the author of the book, "The Travel Mamas' Guide," she teaches parents how to make the most of traveling with babies and children. Colleen loves sharing tips on hotels, cruises, spas, theme parks, and global lifestyle topics. When she is not traveling the world, she lives in Arizona with her husband and two kids.
