12 Quick but Essential Tips for Disney on Ice with Kids
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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1. Stay warm.
You 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.
2. Pick the right Disney on Ice show for your family.
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.
Disney on Ice 2024 Shows
- Frozen & Encanto – This combines two of Disney’s most popular musicals. Expect to see Frozen characters like Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and Sven. You’ll also see Mirabel, Isabela, Luisa, and others from Encanto. Mickey and Minnie host the show.
- Find Your Hero – This sampler show includes favorite Disney characters from Frozen, Moana, Tangled, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and classics like Mickey Mouse.
- Into the Magic – The theme of this performance is discovering why no dream is too big. Your family will view Miguel from Coco, Rapunzel and Flynn from Tangled, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Anna and Elsa from Frozen, plus Moana and Maui from Moana.
- Magic in the Stars – Every story in this Disney on Ice show starts with a wish. Enjoy skating performances by characters from Encanto, Aladdin, and Disney Princesses like Tiana. Pixar personalities like Buzz Lightyear and even Lightning McQueen make appearances. The finale features Frozen 2 favorites, including Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Kristoff.
- Mickey’s Search Party – The title character, Mickey Mouse, hosts this show. Kids can expect to see Moana, Miguel from Coco, Aladdin characters, and Toy Story stars like Woody. Of course, the Frozen cast makes an icy appearance.
3. Tell kids which characters to expect.
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!”
4. Get in on the glow-in-the-dark fun.
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.
5. Dress kids in Disney costumes.
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.
Take a look at a dazzling array of costumes for boys and girls from Disney Store.
6. Wear Disney apparel.
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.)
7. Set expectations for Disney on Ice with kids.
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.
How long is Disney on Ice?
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.
8. Book a Character Experience.
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.
9. Bring your own snacks.
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.
10. Enjoy the magic of Disney on Ice at home.
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.
Free Disney on Ice Printables
Disney on Ice Home Activities for Purchase
- Disney Princess Magic Ink coloring set
- LEGO Disney Frozen Elsa’s Frozen Princess Castle Toy Set
- Disney jigsaw puzzle featuring Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto
11. Reserve early for the best seats.
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.
Are lap children allowed at Disney on Ice?
Children under 2 years of age are admitted free of charge if they sit on a parent or guardian’s lap.
12. Use a discount.
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!
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Save these Disney on Ice tips!
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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.
Can you tell me if they ever have any “sensory friendly” shows for special needs children?
Hi Cheyenne – I couldn’t find any sensory friendly show options, but this blog post about Disney On Ice with kids on the autism spectrum may be helpful for you: https://www.tribeonaquest.com/disney-on-ice-with-autism/
My daughter is 2 years old, Would I need to pay for a ticker for her to get a seat or should I just sit her on my lap?
According to the Disney On Ice website, children 23 months and younger may enter for free if they sit on your lap. Kids ages 2 years+ must buy a seat. Enjoy the show!
Thank you, Colleen – great tips!
To clarify the 2y age thing:
1) how is the age validated, what should we provide?
2) what if the child is just over 24m but we still plan to keep them in our lap to see better and make them feel more at ease (they never been to a big production like Disney)?
Hi Julia – I would check with the specific venue where you plan to see Disney On Ice. I’m guessing that they would not require proof of age, you might want to bring along a birth certificate to be sure. Enjoy the show!
Como puedo aser para tomar fotos con los personajes con mi niña tiene 3 años ya compramos boletos
Hola Edgar – I don’t remember seeing any photo opportunities with characters either time we went to watch Disney On Ice. However, that may vary from location to location. Enjoy the show with your little girl!
Hello! I just bought tickets for our 5 year old daughter and I to go to Disney on Ice next month. We got tickets in row 4 section 110 at the Xcel Energy center. Here’s a link to the seating chart: https://www.xcelenergycenter.com/events/detail/disney-on-ice-celebrates-100-years-of-magic. Do you think those seats would be good for the show or should I pay to exchange them for different seats (such as seats in section 104)? I like that it appears our seats would provide a straight on view of the backdrop and is also close to an exit (easier for potty breaks I suspect). Just want to make sure we’re in a great spot for her to enjoy the show, but don’t want to pay exchange fees if I don’t have to. Thanks!
I’m not sure if the ticket along the sides are more expensive because they show will take turns facing those sides, as opposed to facing front toward section 110. Your best bet is to call Xcel Energy Center and ask them. I will say that if you’re in row 4, I bet you’ll have a good view regardless. Enjoy Disney On Ice!
Great Tips to take in consideration. Going tomorrow for Disney On Ice – Frozen @ Houston with my 4yr old. She actually dressed up as Frozen this past Halloween so Lucky me I don’t have to buy another custom lol.
That’s awesome! I bet your little one adores the show & will enjoy getting another chance to dress up in her costume!
The costume rules are absolute (a word that starts with a “b” and “s” I can’t use here). Why can’t adults express their love for Disney just as much as the kids? Ever heard of cosplay, you guys? To get around the rule I’d either: wear a causal outfit inspired by a Disney character (aka Disneybound) or wear a costume of a VERY obscure character people won’t instantly recognize (Maid Marian from Robin Hood, Esmeralda from the Hunchback of Notre Dame, etc.) or that of an obscure outfit of a well known character (Ariel’s blue dress, Anna’s green skating dress, etc.) that looks casual enough to pass for a normal outfit. You can wear a blouse, corset top, skirt and bow anywhere. The rules can be useful for screening out, say, child predators in costumes that can be threats to young guests, however, I find these rules very short-sighted and out of touch with fan culture for everyone else.
Taydra – I totally understand your frustration with the rule about no costumes for adults at Disney On Ice. I think, however, that they are trying to avoid children being confused about attendees being members of the cast. I think the Disneybound idea is a great one!
Hi Cindy – Thanks for all your helpful information. Do you know if snacks can be brought to the show? We’re going in March in Minneapolis. I’ve read some other blogs that said they have, but I’m trying to be sure. Thanks again!
Hi James – I would think the snack policy would vary from location to location. I suggest checking with the venue in Minneapolis to get their policy on bringing your own food. Enjoy Disney on Ice!
what seats are best ceter or side sseatings
Hi Cindy – Each Disney On Ice venue has different seating arrangements so I wouldn’t be able to answer that. Good luck in making your choice and enjoy the show!
The SAP Center also offers group discounts. I purchased 15 for my sons birthday party at 408-977-4736. They are extremely helpful.
Good tip!
We absolutely love this show and cannot wait till it comes to our area! So magical!
So fun to get to experience the magic of Disney close to home!
This looks SO much fun! We haven’t seen it yet but I know my kids will love this! Thank you so much for these tips!
Toni – I bet you and your kids will LOVE Disney On Ice!
These are great tips! We’ve been to Disney on Ice several times and have used several of your approaches. I especially like your number 6. It’s great to set expectations.
Thanks, Alicia! Setting expectations is so important with kids (and adults!) in pretty much every situation.
I never did get the chance to take my daughter to see Disney on Ice. She would have loved this when she was younger.
It’s not too late to go now! I’m all grown up and I loved Disney On Ice. It’s fun to see the characters but the ice skating is impressive too.
Disney on Ice looks like such a great family adventure! I would never have thought to find a discount coupon. Thanks for the idea!
It often pays to check Groupon and Living Social before booking any tickets for live shows like Disney On Ice!
My kids loved Disney On Ice. I would love to go again the next time it comes to town. Groupon is a great way to save some money on the tickets.
You have so many great tips. My favorites are to dress up, stay warm and choose the right show.
Thank you for your comment, Shelley. I’m glad you found my tips helpful!