Character Autographs are Changing the Magic

Just a heads up if you are a fan of getting Character Autographs as part of your Disney Dining Experience.

Getting an autograph from a beloved Character at Disney is one of my family’s cherished family traditions. While my daughter is older now, she still remembers how excited she was to get her autograph book signed by Pooh, a Princess, even the “big cheese” himself, Mickey. Well, changes are in the wind now at Disney World at certain Character Dining experiences, and I personally do not like the idea. (Yes, I am that adult who still likes photos with the Characters).

According to multiple posts and guest reports at Disney World, the practice at certain dining locations involves giving you a pre-signed autograph card and characters are not actually signing for each table is spreading to include more and more Character Dining restaurants.

Some characters will still sign autograph books if asked, but the goal, in my opinion, is to encourage faster guest dining turn-over at the restaurants. (I have not seen/heard that this is the case with the Character meet and greets, like the Character Expo at Epcot.)

As my daughter points out, if Disney still is adamant about selling autograph books in the parks then they need to make a decision…it’s either autograph cards (with all characters’ pre-signed autographs on a laminated card) or the magical experience of having a character sign in a Disney book you purchased that will be a more meaningful, treasured memento. (yes, we still have hers from years ago).

So just in case, for your next Disney trip, I suggest the following:

1. Still seek a Character Autograph (reports are that the Characters are still signing if asked)

2. Ask the cast member when you check in to the restaurant or meet n greet if they are still signing autographs or just passing out pre-autographed cards, or both.

3. Prepare your child’s expectations in advance if the Character doesn’t sign their book, cap, etc. (I don’t know what you could say other than the character pulled a muscle in their hand and can’t sign.)

To be honest, a lot of people are not happy about this and with any luck, this is only a temporary experience by Disney and will not become standard practice. Of course nothing is more magical than a photo of your child with a Character … holding up a “magical” pre-signed autograph card (rather than getting that autograph interaction.) Not.

I'd be happy to pass along your comments to Disney if you want.