Growing up, I wasn’t necessarily part of a “Disney Family.” Sure, we watched the movies and I knew the characters, but we didn’t visit Disney World or attend Disney on Ice shows.

I’m still in therapy because of it.

So, when I became a mother of a Disney-obsessed little girl, not only did I find myself planning our first Disney trip when she was three years old, but I also was super excited to experience the Disney magic myself. There’s just something about the nostalgia, the fantasy, the exuberance of the characters, and the touching stories that make me feel like a kid again.

Our first Disney trip was incredible, but the expense and energy required made it a “once every few years” kind of thing.

Until we can get back to the happiest place on Earth, I have enjoyed taking my family to Disney On Ice!

The costumes, the music, the energy, the excitement, the magic…it’s all there…but in an accessible and local experience.

My first Disney on Ice experience was in Fort Wayne at the War Memorial Coliseum. I went by myself with my then-three year old daughter. Our seats were absolutely amazing…only a handful of rows up from the ice and so close to the action. I got chills when we entered…partially because we were so close to the ice and partially because I knew we were about to have a magical experience.

I had no idea what to expect at my first show. Our show was the “Worlds of Fantasy” performance, which included songs from Cars, Toy Story 3, Tinker Bell, and The Little Mermaid. Of course, Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy were there to introduce the show and provide more entertainment.

The entire production was awesome. There were scene changes, great costuming, all the familiar music, and plenty of opportunities for kids (and adults, whoops!) to get up and dance to the music. This was not a stuffy, stay in your seat the whole time, kind of atmosphere…which was perfect for a three year old.

I was honestly surprised at how long the entire show was. You really get your money’s worth, and the show is broken up by an intermission…to allow you time for food and souvenir shopping (there’s plenty of that, for sure!).

We loved our experience so much that we jumped at the chance to go again just a couple months ago to the “Treasure Trove” tour at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. My husband and I both went this time, taking all three of our daughters, ages 4, 2, and just a couple months old. We actually watched the show from a suite at the venue with several of our friends and their children. This made a lot of sense to us so that our kids could get up and walk around if needed, and so that we would have a little more room to spread out all of our bags and carseats.

But who were we kidding? The kids were glued to the performance the whole time, and there was very little roaming around the suite. Even the adults found it to be really fun and entertaining.

This show had tons of Disney favorites represented…from Toy Story to The Lion King to all kinds of princesses…Peter Pan, The Princess and the Frog, Tangled, Alice in Wonderland, Aladdin…the list goes on and on. I couldn’t believe how many movies they featured! There truly was something for every child.

Adults and kids alike can appreciate the talent of the ice skaters and the extravagant production numbers. The sets and special effects are super entertaining. Watch out, because you might even see people flying through the air!

There are numerous Disney on Ice shows with different themes and movies represented. This creates a unique and different experience each time you go. There’s always a good mix to entertain both boys and girls, too!

Disney on Ice is returning to Fort Wayne’s War Memorial Coliseum next week with the Passport to Adventure show, and I am so excited because Lilo & Stitch will be a part of this performance! My girls lose their MINDS over Lilo & Stitch!

This show’s summary reads:

Showtimes start on Thursday, March 26, at 7 p.m., continuing through Sunday, March 29. Saturday and Sunday include several performances during the day as well as evening performances. Surely, there is something to fit everyone’s schedule.

Click here to purchase tickets to a Disney On Ice show near you!

Whether you’re between Disney trips and needing something to hold you over until the next magical visit…or you’ve yet to experience Disney World but would like your little ones to experience all the wonder and excitement, Disney on Ice is guaranteed to be an awesome family memory.

Stay up-to-date on all the latest Disney on Ice news by joining the Disney On Ice Insiders’ Experience

Would you like to WIN tickets to the opening night (Thursday, March 26; 7:00 p.m.) of Disney on Ice Passport to Adventure in Fort Wayne, IN?

Simply enter your email, name, & you’ll be asked to visit my Etsy shop’s Facebook page, Opal and Aqua. I offer plenty of sparkly accessories for your own special princess!

Winner announced at 12:00 a.m. on March 22!

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I received something of value from Feld Entertainment as part of their Insider Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.