Long Lost Friends--Limited Time Magic at Magic Kingdom

A Princely Greeting

Walt Disney World’s year long theme for 2013 is Limited Time Magic which is a conglomeration of mini themes sprinkled throughout the year.  Some of the themes are just highlights of shows and attractions already at Walt Disney World, while others are multi-month themes such as Monstrous Summer, some Limited Time Magic themes repeat throughout the year, and others last only for a short time, such as Long Lost Friends.

We knew just a few days prior to leaving for our Disney vacation in July, that one of the Limited Time Magic themes happening during our trip was Long Lost Friends featuring new and/or unusual characters for Disney guests to meet.  We also knew it was going to be held in the Magic Kingdom.  We also knew the characters would be greeting guests around Town Square.  What we didn’t know was when or the specific times.

The Sky Is Falling!

Thursday was Magic Kingdom’s AM Extra Magic Hour Day and we had arrived prior to rope drop.  The husband grabbed a park map and Times Guide.  The Times Guide did tell us it was Long Lost Friends week and a few details, but nothing about specific times to meet the characters.

Since we were just at the tunnel to the right of the train station waiting for the park to open, we could see a bit of the goings on inside the park prior to opening.  And what do we see?  The Long Lost Friends characters taking their places; ready to greet guests.  Our touring plan immediately changed.  Instead of rushing to the rides and Fastpasses kiosks, we took the time to meet the eleven characters greeting guests.

Just to the right, beside Town Square Theater, Dr. Facilier and Louis from The Princess and the Frog were greeting guests.  We went there first. 

Next, we queued up to meet Robin Hood, Friar Tuck, Sheriff of Nottingham, and Prince John.  They were taking their time with guests which was great fun!

Chicken Little and Abby Mallard were right next door, in the middle of Town Square so we exited one line and went right to another.  Abby Mallard is also known as the Ugly Duckling.

Just as we headed to the line for the Br’ers, it was time for them to take a break.  No problem.  We just waited for them to return—less than five minutes.  During our wait, we discovered Mary Poppins right around the corner—Bonus!  The Br’ers were greeting guests near the entrance to Town Square Theater.

A Br'er Bear Hug

When the reappeared from their break, there was great frivolity.  Hugs, dancing, and more hugs.  The husband was consumed.  Note that no Photopass photographer was available at this location due to copyright and other permissions.

All characters had autograph cards featuring their autographs that were given by the character handlers.

Our touring resumed after our meet and greet of Long Lost Friends was completed.  We were all happy and the husband was very happy.

Show me how to do that bow and arrow thing again

Do you stop for characters?  What I noticed, especially while waiting for the Br’ers, was the number of people watching and walking by.  I get it, a day at Magic Kingdom is full of choices based on priorities.  Being at the park, and near the front of the line, when it opened an hour early for resort guests only gives one a jump on the day.  And we were satisfied to spend our time greeting our Long Lost Friends.