5 Ways to Celebrate a Birthday at Disney World in Orlando, Florida
You can have a blast when you spend your birthday at the "Happiest Place on Earth." Whether you simply bask in some extra attention and pick up a few freebies or go all out and have a special cake or party, you can find plenty of fun things to do on your big day. While grown-up birthdays are not always a cause for celebration elsewhere, everyone can enjoy celebrating a birthday at Disney World! Make your birthday plans in advance if you want to visit a specific restaurant, order a special cake or host a party; the more notice you give the more likely you are to get the day you want.
Get a Birthday Button
Head to Guest Services in any of the main Disney theme parks and pick up a complimentary "It's My Birthday" button to wear on your big day. Not only is this a great little souvenir of your Disney World birthday trip, but at about 2" across, the button is extremely visible. Why does visibility matter? Because wearing the button will prompt cast members (and sometimes other guests) to wish the birthday child (or adult) a happy birthday. Don't be surprised if you get picked to help out with a task at a show, brought to the front of the line or seating area for a ride or simply wished a Happy Birthday by everyone you meet.
Order a Birthday Cake
Call ahead and order a special 6" birthday cake for the big day. You can have a personalised birthday cake delivered to your table at whatever restaurant you pick for the big day, or you can have your cake delivered to your resort room. Celebration cakes are not expensive and are a good way to add a touch of magic to your big day. If you can give a little more notice, and don't mind spending a bit more, the artistic bakers of the celebration cakes department will craft you something wonderful and deliver it to your table or room. Prices vary depending on what type of cake you want and how many people it needs to serve. Order your cake at least a week in advance so the bakers have time to do their magic.
Tell Your Server It's Your Birthday
If you are dining at one of Disney's full service theme park or resort restaurants, tell your server that it is your birthday. You'll get a special cupcake or dessert--and a chorus of "Happy Birthday" from the restaurant staff as well.
Attach Your Birthday to Your Reservation
When you make your reservation for your trip, make sure you tell the cast member booking the resort for you that you will be celebrating a birthday on your trip. Repeat this information in person when you arrive. You may find a special treat like a birthday card signed by Mickey or a little fruit basket in your room when you get there. Nothing is guaranteed, but many guests have received a special touch of Disney magic when they check in during their birthday week.
Have a Party
You can have a private birthday party in a very public place when you celebrate at Disney World. Parties range from a special kid's Peter Pan-themed celebration at the Neverland Club at the Polynesian to a fun candy-themed party at Goofy's Candy Company. If you want to book a party, you'll need to do so about 90 days in advance, and expect to spend about $400 for a small group or up to $70 per person, depending on the location, number of guests and the party theme.