Disney On Ice, the unofficial holiday obligation show of the season, kicked off its annual December run last night at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Ariel, Lightning McQueen, Tinker Bell, Buzz Lightyear, and Woody were all there—with appearances from Mickey and gang sprinkled throughout. JuiceBox was there too, gathering what youreally need to know before you go.
You will spend at least $20 per child on treats and/or toys. This shouldn’t shock you. Reasonable grownups know that they won't get everyting they want at a big concert merch stand. Unfortunately children are not reasonable grownups. After the meltdown that inevitably occurs when your child learns he can't have both the light-up wand and theIcee in an alien mug, you’ll cave and get them both. Or you'll leave with a screaming child trying to punch you in the crotch.
There will be no line for beer. The biggest perk of a child-centric show! There is no wait—we repeat, no wait—for alcohol. Does that offset the fact that drinks are about $10 a pop? Depends on how much you dislike Disney music, we suppose.
Attire is casual. This is where parents divide into two camps: Your kids are either in a Disney princess costume or PJs. Either way, it's totally okay—even encouraged.
The skating will be mediocre. Yes, they can perform some impressive jumps and spins (with a few falls thrown in). Yes, your child will “ohhh” and “ahhh.” But if you’re expecting Olympic-quality skaters, you will be disappointed. To be fair, it’s probably difficult to skate in a Buzz Lightyear costume.
Your child will still get bored. Even with their favorite characters come to life before their eyes, two hours is a long time for kids who still love Disney to sit still—especially when it hits 9 p.m. There were plenty of fussy children (including yours), so don’t feel bad for leaving early.
Disney On Ice’s Worlds of Fantasyruns through Sunday, December 14.
