Countdown to Disney: Creative Trip Reveal Ideas and Fun Ways to Build Anticipation
- Amber Robinson
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
I love helping clients surprise their little ones with a vacation to the "Most Magical Place on Earth". I surprised my own little girl with a t-shirt the day of our flight recently and she scream with joy. There’s something magical about hearing the words, “We’re going to Disney!” Whether you’re planning a first-time trip or returning to a favorite destination, few things spark joy quite like a Disney vacation reveal.
At Picture Perfect Adventures, we believe the magic should begin before you ever step foot in the parks. From surprising your kids with the big news to building anticipation with themed activities, the planning process can become part of the adventure.
One client recently, had a scavenger hunt and sent her kids all over the house and yard. The kids were given an envelope and once they read the first clue - the hunt was on. Each clue made a different location and ride reference, making the kids try and guess different places.
Here are some of our favorite ways to reveal your trip—and keep the excitement growing daily.
The Big Reveal: When (and How) to Share the News
We know many parents love the idea of a grand surprise at the airport or hotel check-in. And while that can be fun for repeat travelers, a first-time Disney trip deserves a little more build-up.
Letting your kids in on the secret—at the right time—helps them prepare emotionally, understand what to expect, and feel more invested in the experience.
Not sure when to tell them?
If your kids are young, consider waiting until your trip is fully booked and a little closer to departure. Telling them too far in advance can lead to months of daily questions like, “Is it Disney day yet?” But waiting too long means you miss out on some of the most magical moments of anticipation.
Make It Memorable: Creative Reveal Ideas
Whenever you decide to share the news, make it feel as special as the trip itself. Here are a few fun and flexible ways to do just that:
1. Scavenger Hunt
Turn the big reveal into an interactive adventure! Use clues that lead to a final message or item revealing the destination. You can make each clue a puzzle piece or use themed riddles. Pinterest has tons of templates if you want to keep it simple.
Pro Tip: If you want to film the reaction, keep the hunt in one space so you don’t miss the big moment.
2. Countdown Calendar
Once the secret’s out, a countdown calendar is the perfect way to keep the magic alive—without hearing “How many more days?” every morning.
Choose from:
Clothespin Countdown – A creative, customizable option. Just hang paper cutouts (like Mickey ears or favorite characters) from twine with numbered pins.
Dry Erase Frame – Easy and reusable. Add a Disney-themed printable to a dollar store frame and mark off each day.
Wooden Blocks – A stylish option for your mantle or kitchen counter. Buy or DIY!
Classic Paper Chain – A craft you can do with your kids. Tear off one link each morning to make the wait more visual (and exciting).
Chalkboard Mickey Head – Turn an old piece of wood into a charming countdown you can reuse every year.
3. Disney Family Movie Night
A cozy, cost-effective way to start making memories before your trip even begins.
Pick one night a month leading up to your departure and theme the entire evening around a Disney classic—dinner, activities, crafts, and all!
Try these combos:
Mulan – Make your own fan, enjoy Mongolian beef, and talk about courage.
Toy Story – Create your own Forky, then build a bacon cheeseburger pizza like the one at Pizza Planet.
Moana – Craft a flower crown and dine on Hawaiian chicken.
Cars – Race toy cars and finish the night with diner-style milkshakes.
4. Cook Up the Magic
Food has a way of bringing people together—and sparking memories.
Search for copycat recipes of your favorite Disney park snacks, from Dole Whip to churros, or grab a cookbook filled with magical bites to make at home.
Pro Tip: Let your kids pick the menu for one night each week in the weeks leading up to the trip. It builds anticipation and gives them a taste of the fun ahead.
5. Plan Park Days Together
When kids get a say in the itinerary, they’re more likely to stay engaged and excited.
Designate a special day for each child on the trip. They choose the park, the meals, the rides—everything! It teaches flexibility and gives everyone something to look forward to.
Planning becomes a family affair, and the kids gain a sense of ownership in the experience.
One More Thing…
We created a special graphic for you to share your Disney news in style. Think of it like your own Super Bowl moment—because yes, YOU’RE going to Disneyland (or Walt Disney World)!
Whether you go all out with themed nights and handmade countdowns or keep things simple with a framed calendar and a few favorite films, the magic truly begins the moment you start dreaming about your trip. Let us help you plan your next Disney Adventure! All of our agents are trained and ready to help you. Contact us today!
Written by Amber Robinson
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