Celebrating Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World

(Photo by Kristin Ford/Orlando Sentinel)

If you’re visiting Disney World this week, you know by now that practically everyone else with kids on school holiday is there, too. The resort is jam-packed everywhere you go. While Disney may be giving thanks for the increased attendance, it can be trying at times with young kids in tow at the parks.

Crowds can add to the festive atmosphere — until your child begins his or her quick descent into a public meltdown when he or she can’t get on Dumbo or the Jungle Cruise right this instant. When that happens, try some of these tips to keep the younger members of your party entertained while waiting.

Also, if you want to bring a taste of Thanksgiving to your celebration at Disney, here are some ideas.

– At Magic Kingdom, grab a turkey leg at the Lunching Pad in Tomorrowland and a seat on the curb of Main Street to see a parade. Be thankful you’re not paying what you would for the fare at Victoria & Albert’s.

– At Epcot, take a ride on Living with the Land and learn how crop production has evolved since Native Americans grew their food.

– And, because Native Americans are at the heart of this country’s Thanksgiving legacy, why not meet Pocahontas at The Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Animal Kingdom?

– At the BoardWalk, you can follow the game-day football scores at the ESPN Club, which features more than 100 video monitors with satellite feeds. The full-service restaurant and bar recommends arriving at least one hour prior to the start of popular sports events.

– Finally, in your hotel room, collapse after the big day and join the masses online to plot Black Friday sales.