1. You get characters as soon as fireworks are over...almost all are easily accessible then.
2. 6-7 the day guests are being weeded out via showing your wristbands to shop, eat, or ride any rides.
3. newbie here’s my advice that I’ve been doing for years: make 3 fast passes between 3-6 between each fast pass hit up the movie rides like Philarmagic, Hall of Presidents ect.
EAT BEFORE THE PARTY STARTS don’t waste time sitting down to eat...they’re are things to get done.
make sure you do all the party exclusives...you’ll be walking a lot but I literally got everything done I saw the acapella group, Tomorrowland Christmas, fireworks, parade, and stage show. See the second parade and get your spot across from the people who shelled out money for reserved seating, plenty of viewing area for free!
characters are AFTER fireworks you can hit a bunch up. No line for Jack and Sally today which was odd...still had no desire to meet them though...
bring a bag for extra cookies so you’re not holding them.
wear something Christmas theme...be in the spirit and don’t expect it to not be crowded and you’ll be fine!
Thanks for the tips. My wife and I are going December 15th so we are starting out planning. Can anyone point us to further tips for newbies? Does anyone know of a good itinerary for us to use as a guide for the night? I still have alot more reading to do in this thread but decided to see if we could keep advice like CampbellzSoup's rolling.