The Dis Family Reunion was held at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Convention Center. This event is put on by the Disboards and the DisUnplugged podcast as a fundraiser for Give Kids the World (GKTW). This event was rescheduled several times.
I attended the event as a volunteer with GKTW. Give Kids the World is an amazing place near Orlando where children some from wish organizations on their trips to Walt Disney World.
Dis Family Reunion is a 2 day event held in the ballrooms of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. It includes 2 large ballroom stages with panel and presenters, photograph and autograph sessions with talent, lounges, a vendor hall and auction. The event also hosted evening entertainment including an after hours party at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Both the auction and vendor hall are open to the public without a ticket to the event!
Parking at the Dis Family Reunion Event
It is important to note there was no parking at the Contemporary for the 2021 event. Parking was at Magic Kingdom per the signs, but was probably really at the Ticket and Transportation Center. Guest were then bussed to the convention center.
Speakers at the Dis Family Reunion
Speakers at the event in 2021 included: Jeff Vahle (President of Walt Disney World Resort), Pamela Landworth (president and CEO of Give Kids the World), Actress Jodi Benson, Disney Imagineers and Artists and more.
I was able to see Pat Sajak speak. He was fun and entertaining.
Micky Mouse Club Lounge
One of the rooms at the Dis Family Reunion was a Mickey Mouse Club Lounge. This room was mostly for photos, a relaxing break room and they had water and coffee available.
Disney Auction at the Dis Family Reunion
One of the ways money is raised for Give Kids the World at this even is through a large auction. It looks like someone opened grandma’s basement of Disney collectibles! Bidding is done on your phone.
VIP Lounge at the Dis Family Reunion
The VIP Lounge was at the end of the hallway in a smaller conference room. It was a plain room with only tables and chairs. However a guest reported that they would also have snacks such as Mickey pretzels starting in the late morning. VIP tickets also had other perks such as reserved seating for the panels/presentations and a VIP reception at the After Hours Event at Galaxy’s Edge.
Vendor Hall
There were several Disney themed vendors. From candles and soap to jewelry. This year there was even a Wish Kid selling art. In the back of the vendor hall was the location for autographs.
Food at the Dis Family Reunion
Disney set up a quick serve in the convention center.
Evening Entertainment
There was also evening entertainment as part of the Dis Family Reunion Event. One night was a variety of Disney entertainment including Off Kilter and Sergio the Juggler. The next night was entertainment by The Mickey Mouse Club Reunion. The final night was an After Hours Event at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This event included Boarding Passes to Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Also included were refreshments at the Milk Stand and a Dessert Buffet.
Summary
The Dis Family Reunion event at Walt Disney World is a great fundraiser for Give Kids the World. If you are looking for something different at Disney, this is a great event. Want to hear Disney talent and executives speak? Looking for a more adult oriented event?
Like to meet Disney talent and get autographs? Enjoy looking through Disney memorabilia and merchandise for sale? Enjoy after hours parties at Disney Parks to support a great cause? Then check out the event next time it comes to Walt Disney World.
If you are looking for another larger Disney Convention. Check out our review of the D23 Expo in Disneyland.
