Jill A. Chafin
Unable to visit a Disney theme park right now? You can create your own magical experience right at home! Not only will it save you money, but you’re bound to have a ton of fun in the process. Here’s how to do it.
There are many reasons why families can’t make a trip to Disney. The cost is a major barrier, with a day pass costing around $100 per person. Ouch. Also, many parents don’t want to battle ridiculously long lines, the hot sun, and whiny exhausted children.
Or, Disney theme parks are closed for the first time ever, thanks to the coronavirus.
Whatever the reason, you don’t have to give up on the dream of Disney. You can even use your at-home experience to plan your next real-life Disney adventure. Because if there’s one thing for sure, it’s that Disney is forever.
Binge-Watch Disney Movies
We suggest prepping for your Disney date by watching some family-favorite classics. If you don’t have a subscription to Disney+, now’s the time to get one.
Not sure where to start? Check out the best Disney movies of all time. With 50 classics to choose from, you’ll be busy for a while.
After your movie marathon, select your children’s favorites to help guide your Disney at-home adventure.
Make Decorations and Crafts
In order to create a legit Disney experience, you need to cover your house from top to bottom in Disney decor.
You can draw pictures, print out coloring pages, or make some cool crafts. Whatever helps bring the magic into your home works.
Here are some of our favorites:
- Mickey Mouse paper lantern
- Frozen 2 snow globe
- Winnie the Pooh crafts
- Mickey Mouse pinañata
- Disney castle
Don’t have time for DIY decorations? You can order this Disney party kit, transforming any room into a magical kingdom. Support your local balloon shop by ordering some fun colors. Don’t forget a Mickey Mouse balloon as he’s the icon of Disney.
At less than $20, this stunning Disney backdrop will make for some stellar pictures. In fact, your friends might even think you’re actually at Disney!
Keep in mind that your at-home Disney experience is going to cost way less than a real Disney trip, so it’s okay to splurge on a few items. You can always whip them out for your child’s next birthday party, or rent them out to neighbors and friends.
Looking for more ideas? Here’s how to transform your entire house into a Disney castle.
Create a Disney Playlist
Disney is well known for its upbeat, lyrical, and inspiring music. No Disney party would be complete without some classic tunes.
You can create your own playlist or try out this mix on Spotify.
Ready for a dance party? Here are some perfect songs to get everybody up and grooving. Maybe even have a dance competition, with some cool Disney prizes for all.
Dress Up
Think about your favorite Disney characters. Perhaps only Mom and Dad will dress up, with the kids acting as “tourists.” Or, everyone can dress up, throwing a party for the stuffed animals or pets in the house.
Here’s how to make your own Disney costumes. We’re sure you can create something with the materials you have lying around the house. If not, there are plenty of ready-made costumes at shopDisney.
You can even get matching Disney t-shirts for the entire family. The pictures will be priceless, especially if you take them in front of this amazing backdrop. Plus, you can save the shirts for future trips.
The Disney experience isn’t complete without Mickey Mouse ears for all. You can make your own mouse ears, or order a 20-pack. Don’t leave your pets out of the fun. Here’s a DIY Minnie Mouse costume for dogs. Cute!
Stock Up on Snacks
If you’re missing out on authentic Disney treats, you’re in luck! You can recreate these tasty treats right at home. Make sure to involve your kids in the baking project—it’s all part of the experience.
Here are our top picks:
- Mickey Mouse waffles
- Disney’s famous churros
- Mickey’s chocolate mousse
- Mickey Mouse sugar cookies
- Churro shake
Enjoy Virtual Experiences
If you’re craving the ultimate Disney experience, consider going on a virtual adventure. It’ll give you a taste of the awesome highlights the park has to offer.
Some of these videos are filmed by families who’ve visited the park. Others are offered by Disney during this time of extended closure. Either way, it’s a great way to explore the park from the comfort of your home.
We suggest writing up a “Disney Wish List” based on these videos. That way you’ll have ideas for the future—when the world opens up again.
Here are some top videos to explore:
- Goofy’s Playhouse
- Jungle Cruise
- Too Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Splash Mountain
- Alice in Wonderland
- It’s a Small World
- Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Wanting to create your own version of Disney rides at home? There are plenty of families already attempting this! Check out this family’s recreation of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride or make a homemade haunted mansion. Just remember to stay safe. Don’t do anything crazy, like trying to fly off your roof like Dumbo.
Curious about the secrets of being a Disney Imagineer? Check out this free online course offered through Khan Academy.
Kids and adults around the world are enamored by the magic of Disney. Going to a theme park is an incredible experience. But if you’re not able to make it a reality right now, you can still enjoy the wonder, surprise, and adventure Disney has to offer—all from the comfort of home.
