There’s nothing like hugging the head mouse himself or getting to meet your favorite princess in real life. But lots of folks are a little nervous about meeting a Disney character if they haven’t before. There’s nothing to fear. I’m going to share just what you can expect during your time together.
Interactions
Most every character will interact with you in some way during your visit. Most have to use some form of sign language to communicate because they can’t speak. Feel free to hug the characters, give them a high five, or just say hello. Wearing something related to the character (Mickey ears when you’re meeting Mickey or Minnie for example) might lead to some additional interaction. Some guests also ask about things that happen in the character’s movie or television show (like asking Pooh where his honey pot is for example) to interact more with the characters.
Autographs
Many of the Disney characters will give you an autograph. Characters that don’t or aren’t able to will still meet and interaction with you. (Need some autograph collection ideas? Here are some!) Know that characters are not able to sign anything that you’re wearing so if you wanted to collect autographs on a shirt or hat, you can’t be wearing it. Characters also need a hard surface to write on and need something large (like a Sharpie marker size) to write with that’s easy for them to hold onto.
Pictures
Characters will gladly take pictures with you. Cast Members may ask you to remove a hat or something that may be offensive. You’re also not able to hold up (or ask the character to hold up) signs promoting products or businesses. Children do need to stand on their own or be held by someone traveling with them for the pictures. Characters are not able to hold children for pictures, but may kneel or sit down to be more at their level. Don’t be shy about asking for multiple pictures either. If you’d like a family picture with Mickey and another of just your children, that’s fine. Just be sure to be respectful of the others waiting when asking for multiple pictures or poses. Cast Members also gladly take pictures with your own camera or phone.
Lines
For many of the characters, you’ll need to be in the location at the specified time (both are noted on your times guide you can pick up when entering the park). Cast Member are also able to help assist if you’re looking for a specific character or can’t seem to find the location. Listen to the directions given while you’re waiting. Many times you’ll be asked to get out your autograph book and pen while you’re waiting to help keep the line moving.
Leave a Reply