Moms Panel Monday: Celebrate Special Events at Walt Disney World Resort with Panelist Jodie Hilson

Spring is in the air and that means it’s time for me to break out my fuchsia, tangerine and teal stilettos. I also dust off my cinnamon buns wig and lightsabers. You read that right–lightsabers! In about a month, Star Wars Weekends, an annual special event, returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. You can join Star Wars celebrities and characters for special shows and autograph signings, and even party with some stormtroopers!

The force is especially strong with one of our new Walt Disney World Moms Panelists, Jodie Hilson, who loves to visit Disney Parks with her husband and their four children during annual special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Jodie says that whatever time of year you plan to visit Walt Disney World Resort, you will find something special going on and something for every member of the family to enjoy.

“My sons are huge Star Wars fans so we surprised them a few years ago by planning a day just for Star Wars Weekends. They took photos with Darth Vader, got special posters and ended the day dancing at the Hyperspace Hoopla,” Jodie says. “There are so many fun elements to special events, from the limited edition merchandise to the rare-character encounters, these events have really been our favorite as a family.”

Jodie’s tip for making the most of your trip: plan ahead of time by looking at what events are taking place during your visit and make sure you experience all the special shows, parades and character meet and greets.

“These events are great for families who want to see special things and meet unique characters that you don’t always see in the parks,” she says. “During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for example, you can go Trick-or-Treating in costume and still go on the classic rides you know and love.”

Ask Jodie more about her favorite special events at DisneyWorldMoms.com.