The ice skating spectacular Disney on Ice- Dream Big is touring here in our Nation’s Capital this weekend February 15-20, 2017. Our family had the pleasure of attending opening night this Wednesday and had an amazing time. This was our second time seeing a Disney on Ice show, the first was Follow Your Heart in November and we continue to be impressed with the Disney on Ice productions. I love that Disney on Ice appeals to audiences both young and old by show casing characters from the past and present. Everyone is sure to see one of their favorite characters or hear their favorite song. As you watch the performers skate around on the ice and music playing you can’t help but sing along and feel the magic of Disney.
Our whole family was so excited about going to the show. We spent all week preparing. We made sure everyone had matching Mickey shirts, we had a Royal-tea breakfast the day off, made Disney crafts and even had a movie marathon leading up to the big day. Since this was our second time attending a Disney on Ice show we knew what to expect! We had our tickets pre-ordered in advanced so we didn’t have to wait in line. I purchased reserved parking through Spot Hero and only paid $11 to park a block away! I knew that eating a late dinner would leave the kids cranky and stadium meals can get expensive; so we stopped for a bite to eat a few blocks down at Fudrucker’s.
When we arrived to the Verizon Center we took some time to walk around and let the excitement sink in. My boys enjoyed seeing other kids dressed up like characters and would wave and say hi to the little princesses and characters. We had fun seeing what the different vendors were selling. The vendors at Disney on Ice sell some of the coolest toys I’ve ever seen; as well as really awesome themed treats! Keep in mind that souvenirs and snacks are on the pricey side. Be prepared to budget for some fun things to splurge on or be ready to help your children practice patients and self-control if that’s not in the plan. Sometimes we spoil our little princes and will let them pick one thing each. However, there are times it’s too much and I will keep a surprise for them in advanced or after the show to keep this problem at bay.
We enjoy sitting up close to the ice rink, it’s an advantage to sit closer because characters do their best to interact with the audience. However, you can’t go wrong with any seat you purchase at the Verizon Center; they all have excellent views no matter what level or section you are in. Before the show starts entertainers came out on to the ice to warm the crowd up by throwing boomerangs around and doing some tricks. This kept the boys attention until the show started and was a lot of fun to watch. As the lights fade and the music comes up; the characters begin to make their appearance and that’s when the magic hits.
Nothing is more magical than watching your little ones eyes light up as they see their favorite characters come alive on ice. My on the go, energetic boys were awestruck and in wonder as they watched mesmerized throughout the whole show. I was excited to see them so captivated and it tickled my heart to watch them sing along and get so excited about their favorite characters.
One thing that is traditional for Disney on Ice is that Mickey and Minnie always make an appearance at the beginning and end of each show. They are like the narrators or ring master of the show; it just isn’t Disney without M-I-C-K-E-Y… M-O-U-S-E! You will find that there is a nice balance in characters that make an appearance to appeal to all fans whether boy or girl. The shows are full of action and adventure. If you are just expecting graceful princess’s figure skating… think again! There are daring acrobatic stunts, thrilling sword fights and awesome special effects. On top of it all, Disney manages to make sure mostly every princess makes a special appearance.
Dream Big highlights a few stories by telling a short version of the tale. The fairy-tales focused on in Dream Big are Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty and Frozen. They showcase a mini version of the plot line of these five tales and features Princesses with their most popular songs in between.
Tips and Tricks:
- Parking at the Verizon Center was easy to access! We used a site called Spot Hero. They found a safe, clean and spacious garage for us that was a block away and only cost $11.
- Purchase tickets in advanced online by visiting www.disneyonice.com and use the code: MOMDAD to save $5 per ticket.
- Be prepared to see some of the coolest merchandise ever! Everyone, especially the wee ones will feel like a kid in a candy store. To keep things from getting out of hand; set some ground rules before you go so everyone is on the same page. There are souvenir stands set up around the concession area. However, if your hands are already full but you want snacks or fun glow wands don’t worry vendors will be walking around the arena to bring it directly to your seat.
- There is a 20 minute intermission halfway through the show, so keep that in mind for potty breaks.
- The noise level was surprisingly perfect. Sometimes shows acoustics can be set too high. However, the volume of the music during the show was just right. Children weren’t placing their hands over their ears, which is a good barometer. This being said I always bring ear protection to events like this to help buffer noise. If you have a little one sensitive to loud sounds head sets are good to have on hand.
- If you want to bring a stroller with you to the arena Verizon Center has a stroll check at Guest Services where it can be stowed prior to going to your seat. The Guest Services area is located outside of Section 102. After the show is over you can pick up your stroller.
- The last tip is to have fun and make the most of the experience. There were tons of kids dressed up in Disney costumes; which I highly recommend because it’s just so much fun!
Ticket Information:
Tickets start at $20. (Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.)
Show Times:
- Wednesday, February 15 at 7:30 p.m.
- Thursday, February 16 at 10:30 a.m., 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, February 17 at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, February 18 at 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
- Sunday, February 19 at 12:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
- Monday, February 20 at 12:30 p.m.
***The Playful Parent does not receive payment to write articles, all information and opinions shared are my own. Discounts and complimentary tickets are always a plus but not a requirement. I enjoy writing articles about my families experiences so that parents feel encouraged to get out and try something new with their kids.***
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