Disney on Ice is a popular ice skating show featuring beloved Disney characters that tours worldwide annually. The show brings Disney magic to life through talented figure skaters, eye-catching costumes, captivating music, special effects, and intricate choreography on an ice rink. Audiences of all ages are delighted by the performance as their favorite Disney stories and characters come to life right before their eyes.
With its widespread popularity across generations, Disney on Ice shows tend to attract large crowds in major cities and venues. This leads many people to wonder – are Disney on Ice tickets expensive? Let’s take a closer look at Disney on Ice ticket prices and the factors that contribute to the costs.
Disney on Ice Ticket Prices
Disney on Ice ticket prices can vary greatly depending on the city, venue, show date and time, seat location, and source the tickets are purchased from. On average, Disney on Ice tickets range from $15 – $200 per seat. However, it’s not uncommon to find individual tickets priced higher or lower than that range too.
Some general guidelines for Disney on Ice ticket pricing:
– Weekend shows (Friday – Sunday) are more expensive than weekday shows (Monday – Thursday).
– Evening shows are more expensive than matinee shows.
– Tickets for premiere seating like front row, VIP seats, or seats on the ice tend to be the most expensive.
– Center seats in lower sections closest to the action cost more than seats on the aisles or in the rear sections.
– Tickets purchased directly through the Disney on Ice website or box office typically have the highest face value price.
– Third party ticket resellers like Ticketmaster, Vivid Seats, StubHub, etc. can have tickets priced above or below face value.
– Bundled deals for groups and families can provide discounts compared to individual tickets.
– Early bird discounted tickets for shows later in a tour run tend to be cheaper.
– Cities with multiple show dates and venues typically have lower prices due to high supply.
So while there is huge variability, generally expect to pay $50 – $100 per person for decent lower bowl seats to a Disney on Ice show in a major city. Seats further back or for less popular shows can sometimes be found for as low as $15 – $40. And the best seats for premier shows can cost over $200 each.
Why Are Disney on Ice Tickets Expensive?
There are a few key factors that contribute to the typically high price of Disney on Ice show tickets compared to other live family entertainment:
1. Name Brand Recognition
Disney is one of the most beloved and well-known brands in the world. That brand power allows Disney on Ice to charge a premium for shows that feature famous Disney characters from massively popular movies like Frozen, Moana, Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, and more. Parents know their kids are guaranteed to be enthralled seeing real life Disney magic on ice.
2. Massive Production
The scale of Disney on Ice shows is truly massive, with huge sets, elaborate costumes, special effects, video screens, sophisticated lighting and sound, and advanced projection mapping technologies. Plus dozens of cast members and crew. The productions costs involved with all of that drive up ticket prices.
3. Top Talent
The skaters in Disney on Ice shows are extremely talented, with many having backgrounds as competitive figure skaters, ice dancers, gymnasts, and more. It’s not cheap to recruit and hire top skaters, coaches, choreographers, and technicians to put on first-class ice theater productions.
4. Short Engagements in Big Venues
Disney on Ice usually performs 4-6 shows over 2-5 days in major arenas and stadiums in each city. As such, they have very limited seating availability for shows in huge venues, which allows them to keep prices high due to low supply and huge demand.
5. Flexible Pricing Strategy
Disney on Ice implements variable “dynamic pricing” where ticket prices fluctuate based on market demand. Hot shows in big cities naturally have the highest prices due to huge demand. Slower selling shows in smaller markets are discounted. This maximizes overall revenue.
6. Captive Family Audience
Parents know how much their kids love Disney and will pay higher ticket prices than they normally would for live entertainment because of the once-in-a-lifetime experience Disney on Ice provides. Demand is relatively inelastic, meaning higher prices don’t necessarily deter families from attending.
How Disney on Ice Ticket Prices Compare to Other Live Events
To better evaluate whether Disney on Ice tickets are expensive, it’s useful to compare them to tickets for other live entertainment events that families may attend:
Event | Average Ticket Price Range |
---|---|
Disney on Ice | $50 – $150 |
Cirque du Soleil | $50 – $250 |
Broadway Musicals | $50 – $200+ |
Children’s Theater | $10 – $40 |
Sporting Events | $30 – $300+ |
Concerts | $30 – $500+ |
You can see Disney on Ice has comparable average ticket prices to high-end events like Cirque du Soleil shows and Broadway musicals in major cities. The experience of seeing beloved Disney characters come to life on the ice does come at a premium cost.
However, Disney on Ice tickets can provide more value for families in terms of length of show, captivating performance elements, and memorable experience for both parents and kids. And they are cheaper on average than taking the family to a major league sporting event or big concert.
For families on tighter budgets, discounted matinee shows, seats further back in venues, and third party sellers can help find more affordable Disney on Ice tickets. There are usually ways to access the experience at lower price points for those willing to be flexible.
Tips for Finding Cheaper Disney on Ice Tickets
If the standard Disney on Ice ticket prices are too expensive for your family’s budget, here are some smart tips to find cheaper tickets:
– Look for discount codes and coupons on Disney on Ice’s website and via promotions on social media
– Buy tickets for weekday matinee shows instead of peak weekend evenings
– Be flexible on show dates and willing to attend a less popular performance
– Purchase seats in the upper deck or corners instead of front and center
– Buy tickets well in advance for best availability of discounted seats
– Check third party sellers like Ticketmaster and StubHub for ticket resales below face value
– Search Groupon and social media for coupon codes and group discount deals
– Ask about military, student, and other discounts when purchasing tickets
– Consider buying partial view obstructed seats for a cheaper view
– Buy in family four-packs or large group packs to get bulk discount
– Join the venue’s email list for access to pre-sales and special offers
– Sign up for Disney on Ice email alerts to get exclusive ticket pre-sale windows and discounts
With strategic planning and flexibility on show dates, times, cities, and seats, there are usually opportunities to buy Disney on Ice tickets for at least 25% below typical prices.
Are Disney on Ice Platinum Tickets Worth It?
Disney on Ice offers premium “Platinum Tickets” for seating on the ice at rink level for a high price of $130-$250 per ticket. These seats promise an up-close immersive experience within feet of the skaters. Are the Platinum tickets worth paying double or more compared to standard lower bowl seating?
Here are some pros and cons to help assess the value:
Pros of Platinum Seating
– Truly immersive perspective right next to the ice
– First to see skaters’ expressions and technique
– Prime viewing of projections and special effects
– Rare chance to sit on the ice rink
– Includes souvenir light-up toy
– Special Platinum entrance and lounge access
Cons of Platinum Seating
– Very expensive – over 2X regular ticket prices
– Limited availability sells out fast
– Can still miss action on far side of rink
– Lighting rigs and sets can obstruct view
– Misses big picture spectacle visible higher up
– Souvenir toy costs extra $10-$15 on its own
Overall, Platinum rink side seats are best suited for die-hard Disney fans willing to pay a steep premium for a truly unique, up-close experience with beloved characters. For most families, the standard lower bowl offers a full perspective of the theatrics at a more affordable cost. But those with the budget will cherish the memories from Platinum seating they can’t get anywhere else in the venue.
Are VIP or Front Row Seats Worth It?
Disney on Ice also offers more exclusive VIP packages with amenities like premium seats in the first few rows, exclusive merchandise, meet & greets with skaters, and more. Are splurging on VIP or front row tickets worth the big jump in price over regular lower bowl seats?
Here are some potential benefits of springing for VIP or front row Disney on Ice seats:
– See skaters’ facial expressions and nuances very close
– No obstructions for full view of stage
– Get waved/smiled at by characters and skaters
– Interact with characters during show segments
– Receive exclusive merchandise and souvenirs
– Experience private meet & greet with star skaters
– Enjoy concierge service and lounge access
However, the extra experience comes at a steep cost:
– VIP packages can cost over $400 per seat
– Front row seats are 2-4X regular lower bowl prices
– Out of budget for many families
– First few rows don’t elevate view of full ice
– Exclusive perks may hold little value to kids
Super fans of Disney on Ice may find incredible value in being front and center for the action. But most families will likely opt for more affordable seats just a bit further back that still deliver magical memories.
How Far in Advance Should You Buy Disney on Ice Tickets?
Disney on Ice shows typically sell out completely or come very close to selling out big venues. As such, it’s highly recommended to buy your tickets early when selection is best. So when is the prime window to purchase Disney on Ice tickets?
– Public on-sales open 1-3 months prior to show dates, earliest chance
– At least 2 months in advance is ideal to get good lower bowl seats
– 6-8 weeks out still reasonable for decent mid-level seats
– Under 4 weeks out risks most affordable tickets being gone
– Under 2 weeks out usually limited selection and high resale prices
Of course if you’re flexible on city/venue and dates, you can sometimes find ticket availability even up to the day of shows in slower markets. But popular cities and premiere shows will be in high demand. For the best price and seat selection, aim to buy Disney on Ice tickets 60-90 days pre-show. But don’t wait longer than 30 days out or risk missing out on this in-demand live experience.
Are Disney on Ice Tickets Transferable or Refundable?
Disney on Ice tickets purchased directly from the Disney on Ice website or box office are fully transferable to another guest up until show date. You simply access your Ticketmaster account online and follow the transfer process. Transfers are free within the same price tier.
However, Disney on Ice tickets are non-refundable outside of full show cancellations. You can’t get a refund on tickets just because you can no longer attend. The tickets do not have cash value if unused. You must find someone to transfer the tickets to instead.
Third party resellers like StubHub may have their own policies around refundability that differ from Disney on Ice’s official non-refundable policy. Be sure to carefully check policies before buying from unofficial sources.
Overall, buying directly from Disney on Ice allows easy and free transfers but no refunds. Transferring unused tickets is better than letting them go to waste if you can’t attend yourself.
Should You Buy Disney on Ice Travel Packages?
Disney on Ice offers all-inclusive Travel Packages that bundle hotel stays, show tickets, souvenirs, and more. Are these complete packages worthwhile, or better to book elements separately?
Potential Pros of Travel Packages:
– Simple one-stop planning
– Guaranteed show seats
– Potentially discounted bundled pricing
– Added perks like souvenirs, upgrades, etc.
– Avoid hassle of booking pieces individually
Potential Cons of Travel Packages:
– Pre-set package limits customization
– Must use designated hotels
– Add-ons and upgrades raise price
– May find better rates booking individually
– Can’t choose specific show seats
Travel Packages appeal most to families from out of town looking for a seamless Disney on Ice trip. Local families or those wanting control over details are better booking customized hotel, ticket, and activity choices separately. Packages offer convenience at the potential expense of flexibility.
Are there any Disney on Ice ticket discounts?
Here are some ways you can get Disney on Ice ticket discounts:
– Group discounts – Booking tickets for large groups, usually 10+ people, can qualify for bulk discounted group rates. Great for schools, camps, community groups, etc.
– Military/First Responders discounts – Active military members and first responders like police, fire fighters, nurses etc. can get special discounted tickets by showing valid ID when purchasing.
– Suite rental discounts – Booking an arena suite rental for Disney on Ice shows often includes discounted event tickets as part of the package.
– Promo codes – Disney on Ice may offer special promo codes on their website, email newsletter, and social media to unlock discounts on select ticket purchases.
– Advance purchase discounts – Buying Disney on Ice tickets far in advance, usually 60+ days pre-event, gives access to the lowest price tickets.
– Weekday matinees – Tickets to shows earlier in the day Monday to Thursday are typically the most discounted.
– Upper level/limited view seats – Sitting higher up in an arena or with an obstructed view costs less than lower sections.
Conclusion
While Disney on Ice ticket prices are undoubtedly at the high end for family entertainment, the spectacle of seeing beloved Disney characters brought to life through superb ice skating and theatrical production does come at a premium cost. There are justifiable factors around expenses, talent, venue availability, and captive audience demand that contribute to the typical $50 – $150 price range. For super fans, special VIP seating can cost over $200+ per seat.
At the same time, there are always opportunities to find more affordable tickets through advanced planning, bundling, discounts, and flexible dates. Comparing costs to other live events, Disney on Ice remains extremely popular with families for the lasting magical memories created that are well worth the expense for most. Just get your tickets early, shop around, and use available discounts to keep your Disney on Ice outing within your desired budget.