4. Springing the surprise

Image: Disney

The closer you get to your trip, the harder it may become to keep the secret. Plan for this ahead of time. Maybe have some outings and projects during the week to keep everyone busy in the days leading up. If for some reason your cover gets blown, don’t panic! A surprise is still a surprise, so be ready to play things by ear if that happens. You’ll have already done your preparation, so you’ll have plenty of other goodies ready for when you all arrive in Orlando that they won’t be expecting.

How you spring the surprise is up to you. Maybe you’re the type to wake your loved one up with confetti and banners and dubstep, or maybe you’re a master of stealth who will leave them convinced they’re in for a boring day shopping for office supplies before they realize you’ve brilliantly trolled them. If you’re going to spring the surprise at the airport, a convenient tarp in the back of the car can hide any suitcases. You can also bring a family friend in on the scheme and pretend you are taking that person to the airport. When you arrive, BAM! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

6. Have a great trip!

Image: Disney

Speaking for myself, the two birthday surprise trips I participated in were experiences I will never forget. My experience as a child inspired me as an adult to give the same gift to my husband, and he never saw it coming. We had an absolute blast and made memories for a lifetime.

For your own surprise trip, take advantage of every opportunity to embrace Disney magic. Get your birthday-beloved a celebration button and make sure they wear it proudly. Be super friendly and engaging with cast members, and you never know what the results might be. I’ve seen janitors break out into operatic birthday choruses, characters treat little princesses like characters they’re dressed as, and I’ve definitely enjoyed my share of free birthday desserts. Time and time again, our readers tell amazing stories of the unexpected ways Disney helped make birthdays shine for their loved ones. Be ready to capture these magical moments!

Have you ever experienced a Disney birthday surprise?