Quick Answer
For Disney On Ice shows in the United States, children under the age of 2 do not need a ticket to attend as long as they sit on a parent or guardian’s lap. Children ages 2 and older will need their own ticket. Policies vary for non-US shows, so check with the venue. Regardless of age, all attendees need a ticket for reserved seating shows in the US.
Do You Need Tickets for Kids Under 2 at Disney on Ice?
Disney On Ice is a popular live entertainment show featuring beloved Disney characters ice skating and performing routines set to music. The shows tour throughout the United States and the world. If you’re wondering whether your young toddler needs their own ticket for an upcoming Disney on Ice show, here are the key things to know:
- For general admission seating in the United States, children under age 2 can attend for free if they sit on an adult’s lap. They do not need their own ticket.
- For reserved seating in the United States, all attendees regardless of age require a ticket for an assigned seat.
- Policies vary for shows outside the US. Some venues allow free lap seating for babies while others require all guests to have a ticket.
- Check directly with the venue website or box office to confirm policies if attending an international show.
So in summary – for general admission US shows, kids under 2 can sit on a parent’s lap ticket-free. But for reserved seating or non-US shows, all guests including babies need a purchased ticket.
U.S. General Admission Policy: Lap Seating for Under 2
For Disney on Ice shows in the United States with general admission seating, children under age 2 can attend for free when sitting on an adult’s lap. General admission means first-come, first-served open seating rather than pre-assigned seats.
According to Disney’s policy, each adult can admit one child under 2 for free lap seating. You can bring proof of your child’s age such as a medical ID bracelet or birth certificate if needed. Your child must be able to sit comfortably on your lap without disrupting other guests.
Once your child turns 2, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for them to attend. Check the venue’s policy on how old your child must be on the day of the show to still qualify for free admission.
Benefits of Lap Seating
Letting your child under 2 sit on your lap has several advantages:
- Saves money on buying a ticket
- Keeps your toddler close for comfort and supervision
- Allows sharing your lap blanket for warmth
- Gives your child the experience of seeing the show at no cost
Considerations for Lap Seating
A few things to keep in mind with lap seating:
- Your child needs to be able to sit still without disturbing those around you
- Be prepared in case your child gets restless and wants to move around
- Bring small toys or snacks to entertain your little one during the show
- Dress your child warmly as it can get cold in the arena
U.S. Reserved Seating: Tickets Needed for All
For Disney on Ice shows in the U.S. with reserved seating, all guests regardless of age must have a purchased ticket for admission. Even babies and toddlers under 2 cannot be lap seated for free.
With reserved seating, your specific seat locations are assigned in advance rather than open general admission. So all attendees occupying a seat, even a baby on a lap, need to be accounted for with a ticket.
If bringing a child under 2, you have two main options:
- Purchase a ticket for them at the infant or child rate. They would sit on your lap.
- Purchase a seat for them. You bring a car seat or booster seat that attaches to the venue seat.
This policy applies to reserved seating Disney on Ice shows anywhere in the United States. Check your venue’s website when purchasing tickets to see if your show has general admission or reserved seating.
Perks of Purchasing a Ticket for Infants and Toddlers
A few benefits of buying a ticket for kids under 2 for reserved seating shows:
- Guarantees your child entry and their own space
- Can attach a car seat to the venue seat for comfort and safety
- May be discounted “lap seat” infant ticket prices
- Let’s your child experience the magic and wonder of Disney on Ice!
International Show Policies Vary
For Disney on Ice shows outside the United States, policies can differ regarding free lap seating for babies and toddlers. Some venues allow it while others require tickets for all guests regardless of age.
Reasons for varying international policies may include:
- Cultural differences in child admission policies
- Safety regulations on seating capacity
- Revenue needs leading venues to require tickets for all attendees
With non-US shows, always check directly with the venue website or box office to confirm their specific age and admission policies. Don’t assume lap seating will be available.
Reviewing International Ticket Policies
When buying tickets for a Disney on Ice show abroad, be sure to carefully review admission policies. Look for information on:
- If free lap seating is allowed for infants/toddlers and any age limits
- If tickets are required for all guests regardless of age
- If there are discounted ticket prices for infants and children under 2
- If proof of age is required for those lap seated
Knowing the specific policies will help ensure you purchase the proper tickets required for your entire group to enter and enjoy the show.
Purchasing Your Tickets
Ready to buy your family’s tickets to an upcoming Disney on Ice show? Here are some tips:
- Check your show date and venue location first. Policies vary.
- Review seat options – general admission or reserved seating.
- Carefully read age and ticket policies for infants and kids under 2.
- Decide if purchasing a ticket or using lap seating for your toddler.
- Take advantage of any discounted infant/child ticket prices available.
- Buy early for the best seat selection and pricing.
Purchasing tickets online in advance enables you to carefully choose your seats together at the best value. Many venues allow free ticket exchanges in case your plans change.
Where to Buy Disney on Ice Tickets
You can purchase Disney on Ice tickets through:
- Official Disney on Ice website – DisneyOnIce.com
- Ticketmaster or venue’s website
- Venue box office in person
- Resellers like VividSeats or StubHub
Buying directly through Disney or the venue you’ll attend ensures authentic tickets. Reseller pricing varies so compare sites for the best deals on your chosen show dates.
Choosing Seats with a Toddler
When buying Disney on Ice tickets with a child under 2 in tow, optimal seat selection helps create an enjoyable experience for all.
Some seating tips with little ones:
- Closer rows reduce distractions but may cost more.
- Center sections provide the most direct views of the ice.
- End seats allow easy in and out access.
- Upper level seats are elevated for clear sight lines.
- Bring small toys and snacks to occupy toddlers in any seat.
Every family’s needs differ. Evaluate your child’s personality and attention span when choosing the right seat location.
Seating Areas to Avoid
With an active toddler, there are certain seating sections you may wish to bypass if possible:
- Right up front rows where your child could get distracted trying to touch the ice
- Far off side sections with angled views
- Upper deck or “nosebleed” rows very high up
- Area behind stage as performers and props can be distracting
Checking the venue seating chart when purchasing tickets allows selecting seats best suited for you and your young child.
Preparing for the Show with a Toddler
Attending a live show with an active toddler in tow takes some preparation and planning. Here are tips for an enjoyable Disney on Ice experience with your little one:
- Arrive early to find seats before the crowds.
- Bring small toys, books, snacks to keep them occupied.
- Buy souvenirs like light-up toys as an activity.
- Visit the restroom just before showtime.
- Bring ear plugs or headphones if very loud.
- Have a comforting stuffed animal or blankie on hand.
- Plan to take breaks from your seats as needed.
- Consider a matinee performance with fewer late night meltdowns.
- Remember to bring any items like medicines or diapers.
Proper preparation makes all the difference when bringing little ones to Disney on Ice. Focus on your child’s needs so you both have a magical experience.
Conclusion
Disney on Ice is a beloved show that introduces children to live entertainment featuring classic Disney stories and characters. Kids under 2 can attend U.S. general admission shows for free on a parent’s lap. But reserved seating venues require tickets for all guests regardless of age. For non-U.S. shows, check policies carefully for any age exceptions on lap seating. With a little planning and preparation, both parents and toddlers can enjoy the wonder of Disney on Ice together.
