Disneyland Training: Character Meet and Greets in New Orleans Square

There are only occasional character meet ups in New Orleans Square.  The best time to find someone is during the Bayou Bash.

During this time Tiana and Prince Naveen make appearances in a small area tucked in the back of New Orleans square.  The area looks like this:

If you go into that opening the princess and her prince can be found on the other side by or on the staircase.

I was not able to get a picture of when they were out, but the workers said they come out daily during the bash and best time to catch them is in the mornings.

If you are looking for the specific times of day the characters will be in what area be sure you check out The Times Guide. The free guide that Disney gives out with their maps at the entrance to the park. Anyone and everyone can read over the list and find out what characters are going to be where!

My tips for meeting the characters:

• Almost all characters sign, make sure you have an autograph book (write your cell phone number in it) and pen for them to use. Characters don’t really like to use Sharpies they prefer pens. The Sharpies stain and Mickey is not to fond of that. Also they really prefer pens that is a normal size not anything small.
• Character Handlers are usually themed to the appropriate land they are hosting in. However, they always have a yellow button (opposite side of their name tag) that has a mickey hand on it and reads “Ask Me About Characters” they are always friendly and there to help. If you forget a pen for autographs they usually have one of those you can barrow too!
• When you get in line, ask the cast member when the character plans to go get a snack. You might not want to wait the extra 5 minutes for their break.
• Only face characters (like the Princesses) speak. You could explain this to your child by saying that the other characters have to save their voices for the parades and shows (where they do speak).
• It is okay to ask questions to the characters about their movies, life, etc. It might be fun while you wait in line to come up with a question to ask them. Just don’t ask Chip and Dale where they keep their nuts!
• When we meet a character, we get the autograph first (make sure you open your book to a clean page while you are waiting in line), give hugs and then take a picture. The characters will help your children to turn around to pose for the picture.
• If you want a character to sign a t-shirt or any other type of clothing you cannot be wearing it otherwise they cannot sign. They cannot sign park tickets or receipts or any type of legal document either. Another good thing to know is they are allowed to sign Disney dollars however if they do sign your Disney Dollar it has lost it’s value and now worth nothing.

Photo tips

• Take a picture of your child as they walk towards the character. I’ve caught some cute pictures of Jacob with his arms outstretched towards the character. It’s so cute.
• Most characters have a Photopass Photographer with them. They will take pictures with your camera too. Don’t be afraid to ask!
• It is okay to have a picture made with just your kids and then you jump in for a second shot.
• If you have more tips for this list, please add them to the comments so I can update it.

Do you know of any other Characters you can meet up with in New Orleans Square?

This Disneyland training article was written by my friend Melissa. Melissa is a Wife and Mother of 3 (ages 5, 3, and 1). Her family lives 10 minutes from Disneyland and visit the magical park at least 1 a week! She also blogs over at Living A Frugal Life about how to have a frugal life while still having a rich family life. She loves DIY projects, cooking from scratch, saving money and spending time with her little family!

Disneyland is the Happiest Place On Earth. Be sure to learn how to make the most of your trip by reading the Disneyland Training series. You can also browse all the articles I have posted in an easy to use outline. And if you are ready to book your trip, be sure to read about the perks of using an authorized Disney vacation planner (plus it’s FREE!).