What's not to miss before the end of the 50th?
 

We're unexpectedly coming to DL next weekend (22nd). We most likely won't be back for at least a year, so I want to make sure we don't miss anything that can't be repeated. We'll definitely see fireworks, probably from whatever spot we can grab 15 minutes ahead of time. Is the DL exhibit still in Mr. Lincoln? What am I forgetting?

I'm hesitant to schedule a meet, as it's the weekend before MA and I'm sure none of you want to be in the park. Not to mention DL with a baby and a toddler goes at an insanely slow pace. But if anyone wants to meet for lunch or dinner or drinks, we would love to see whoever.

I forgot to mention that we'll be there from Saturday through Tuesday, but only doing the parks three of those days. Any suggestions on how to pass the time on the fourth day? I don't think a beach will take all day.

Fireworks
Great Moments with Mr. Martin (Steve, not Isaac)
Golden Mouse ears
Dole Whips

And I already have plans to be there Sunday afternoon. If you wanted to meet up for lunch I can come up a bit earlier.

There are 2 parades. Parade of Dreams and Block Party Bash.

If you want a decent spot for fireworks without much waiting, the end of Mainstreet, left side of the street, a little past Coke Corner is a pretty good view and is usually free until about 30 minutes before the show.

Yes, the Opera House still has the Display of Disney artifacts as well as the Steve Martin movie, both worth seeing.

Make sure you take a group family photo in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle while it's still decked out for the 50th. Ask another, hopefully confident guest, or even a friendly Cast Member to take it with your camera. Or, it might be worth the money (this time) to purchase a Disney/CM photo if you see one of the roving CM photographers in the area.

Also, since there's news and rumors about the entrance of Disney's California Adventure being majorly redesigned later this year, why not take another group family photo in front of the CALIFORNIA letters and/or Golden Gate bridge. :)

In addition to the above -

Indi might enjoy pointing out any golden 50th "Hidden Mickeys" he sees around the park. Many are pretty easy to spot.

Gold ride vehicles - even if you don't get the golden Dumbo or Teacup, you can have a family photo in a gold one just outside the attraction. This goes for Pan and Toad as well.

Between the April Swanking and my brother's birthday, we won't be able to meet up with you. :( :( :( Why the short notice trip? Sounds wonderfully impulsive! I'm sure you'll have a blast.

Although it didn't work out too well for Moonliner, I don't see why we can't arrange a Perfect Spot fireworks campout for you as well. As far as I'm concerned, it's a gift we provide to all out-of-town LoT swankers ... and it gives us locals a chance to view the 'werks from the perfect spot (which we don't much do without a good incentive).

What days will you be at the Park? I'm hoping we can arrange a fireworks campout for you ... we wait, and you just show up about an hour before. It's glorious, and it's our pleasure .... providing there's a date that some of us can be at the Park by, say, 6pm.

I agree with ISM

The fireworks are a must. And iSm will no doubt find you a great spot. :)

I recommend the Parade of Dreams parade if only to watch the parade stop. I think it's cool.

You won't be able to avoid the bling-ed out castle. :D

The film about the 50th at the Opera House is good.

I second most of the things mentioned, but if you only do one parade I recommend the Blck Party Bash at DCA. That really was a lot of fun. The interactive portions were great. Even BT, the chronically cranky, was up doing the twist with the performers!