CHARACTER AUTOGRAPHS
An autograph book is a classic keepsake , but there are many other unique ways to capture your favorite characters ' signatures . PHOTO BY CLIFF WANG
BY TRISHA DAAB
Our favorite Disney souvenir is a poster featuring various Disney characters lined up in front of Cinderella Castle . Mickey , Goofy , Daisy , and even Gideon autographed this poster on my son ’ s first trip to Walt Disney World . Looking at the poster eight years later makes that nowteenager smile . Now that ’ s magic .
There ’ s just something about character autographs . Years later , we can look at them and be immediately transported to Main Street as Pluto draws his pawprint , a princess signing while her tiara sparkles , or Mickey ’ s big white glove clutching your marker .
Magic Kingdom is the ultimate park for character autographs . During normal operations , there are 20 + characters
to find , but getting them all requires prioritizing , planning , and the right supplies .
BEYOND THE AUTOGRAPH BOOK Autograph books are convenient . But …
If your kid is nervous about meeting characters , you want something displayworthy , or you just want to mix things up , consider fun alternatives .
Bring the characters something to sign that sparks a conversation : a chipped mug for Belle , ears for Mickey , anything with polka dots for Minnie , a toy frying pan for Rapunzel , a pirate map for Jack . T-shirts , hats , buttons , or even blank ears are just a few things that you can later wear in the parks that characters , Cast Members , and even other guests will ask about .
Birthday or holiday coming up ? Try a greeting card ! Characters get very excited when they see themselves . Don ’ t be shy sharing your creativity ! Drawings , stories , books , cards , letters , wood carvings : If you ’ ve made it and they ’ re on it , share it .
GOOFY CAN BE SCARY In full costume , Goofy stands well over 6 feet tall . For little ones not even half his size , that ’ s intimidating . And meeting a princess they ’ ve only ever seen on TV ? Overwhelming !
Break the meeting character tension : Show Ariel your shell necklace or Donald your sweet dance moves , or ask Anna about chocolate or Gaston about decorating with antlers . Have your autograph item ready and start there . It gives your little Disney fan and the character something to focus on and gives the character time to show their personality .