Going to a Disney on Ice show is always an exciting experience, especially for children. The magical world of Disney comes to life on the ice with elaborate costumes, beautiful skating, and fun music. However, while the entertainment is spectacular, knowing what to wear as an audience member can make your experience that much better. The right outfit will keep you comfortable in the cold arena while still allowing you to enjoy the show. Here are some tips on what to wear to Disney on Ice.
Check the Venue’s Temperature
Disney on Ice shows are held in large arenas or stadiums. Even if it is warm outside, the temperature inside can be quite cold due to the ice and the size of the space. Before choosing an outfit, check the average temperature of the venue. Most large indoor arenas maintain temperatures between 60-65° Fahrenheit. If you will be sitting for several hours in temperatures below 70, make sure to bundle up accordingly.
Layer Up
Layering your clothing is key for maintaining warmth in a cold arena. Start with thermal long underwear on the bottom and top. Thermal underwear provides insulation without bulk and helps keep your core body temperature regulated. Avoid cotton underwear or tights since cotton soaks up moisture and will leave you feeling chilled. Over the thermals, wear a pair of comfortable jeans, leggings, or sweatpants. On top, wear a long-sleeve t-shirt or sweater with a warm jacket over it. Having layers gives you the flexibility to take items off if you get too warm.
Bring Accessories
Don’t forget the accessories that will protect your extremities from the cold. Warm socks, gloves or mittens, and a hat are must-haves. If your seat is far from the action, bring compact binoculars so you don’t miss any of the skating. You can also bring hand and foot warmers if you tend to have cold hands and feet. A blanket is great for keeping your legs warm if needed.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will likely be doing a fair bit of walking at the venue, so wear comfortable, warm shoes. Snow boots or other waterproof boots are ideal for keeping your feet warm and dry. Avoid open-toed shoes or heels, which can get uncomfortable quickly when sitting for a long period. Bring an extra pair of dry socks in case your feet get cold during the show.
Choose Bright, Fun Colors
Disney on Ice is full of colorful characters and magical settings. Get into the spirit by wearing bright, fun colors and patterns! For children, this may mean Disney character shirts or tutus and tiaras. Adults can also join in the whimsy with Mickey sweaters or princess attire. Stay away from drab, dull outfits. Part of the Disney experience is dressing the part!
Non-Bulky Jackets
When choosing a jacket, avoid big, bulky coats or parkas. These can be difficult to sit in for hours at a time. Instead, opt for non-bulky but still warm jackets. Fleece jackets, wool coats, down vests, or slim puffer jackets allow for flexibility and comfort. You want to ensure you have room to move comfortably and the people behind you can still see.
Scarves and Wraps
Scarves, shawls, and wraps provide an extra layer of warmth while also adding a colorful, stylish touch. Infinity scarves don’t require any adjusting so they are easy to wear. Large blankets can wrap around your shoulders like a shawl. Fun character prints on scarves help complete the Disney ensemble.
Gloves vs. Mittens
While in most situations gloves allow for more dexterity, mittens provide more warmth for your hands. Since you won’t need to use your fingers much during the show, mittens are recommended over gloves for optimum hand warming. Look for mittens with soft, insulating lining. You can also get fingerless gloves to wear underneath mittens so you can easily pull the top portion off briefly if needed.
Hats
Hats not only keep your head warm but also hold in heat that would otherwise escape from your head. Stocking caps, beanies and headbands cover your ears to prevent them from getting painfully cold. Character hats with ears are perfect for Disney on Ice. If you get too warm, you can easily take a hat off.
Hand and Foot Warmers
If you know you tend to have perpetually cold hands and feet even in milder temperatures, bring hand and foot warmers. These are small packets that you open and shake to activate the chemicals inside that produce heat. Foot warmers can go inside your socks or boots. Hand warmers fit inside mittens or gloves. They provide several hours of direct warmth to help you remain comfortable.
The Outer Layer
Your outermost layer, whether it’s a coat, jacket, or parka, should be waterproof and windproof. This protects against outside elements like rain or snow. It also seals in the heat from your inner layers. Look for outer layers with zip closures, high collars, and cuffed sleeves to keep the warmth in and wind out.
Stay Dry
Wet clothing will make you cold. Dress to stay as dry as possible by avoiding cotton and choosing moisture-wicking fabrics for inner layers. Fabrics like wool, fleece, and synthetics draw moisture away from your skin. A waterproof outer layer prevents rain or snow from getting through. You can even spray outerwear with a waterproofing spray for added protection.
Coverage
Don’t forget areas that are often exposed like your neck. A turtleneck sweater or scarf protects your neck. Long underwear covers your legs fully. Tall socks extend coverage so there are no gaps between your pants and shoes. The more skin you can keep covered, the warmer you’ll be.
Dressing Kids
Kids need just as much protection against the cold when going to Disney on Ice. Start with long underwear on the bottom and top, then outer layers of sweaters, sweatshirts, and warm pants. Kids need hats, mittens, and socks too. Pack an extra pair of mittens and socks in case theirs get wet. Blankets help keep kids cozy in their seats. Dress them in bright colors and Disney gear.
Check the Forecast
Before the show, check the weather forecast. If snow or rain is predicted during or before the event, make sure you have waterproof boots, umbrellas, and heavy-duty outerwear. Be prepared to clear off or dry off any wet clothing to stay warm and dry inside.
Dress in Layers
Layering gives you flexibility to modify your outfit if you get too warm or too cold. You can always take layers off, but you’ll wish you had more layers if you’re too chilled. Start with thermal leggings and long-sleeves, then mid-layers like sweaters, and finally a warm coat and other outerwear.
Seating Location Matters
Your outfit may vary slightly depending on where your seats are located. If you’re up close to the ice, temperatures can feel colder. The highest sections farthest from the ice will maintain more warmth. Adjust your layers accordingly. Box seats allow you to wear slightly lighter layers since you won’t be exposed to the cold rink air as much.
Convenience
Pick clothing items that are convenient to put on and take off so you can adjust your warmth as needed. Jackets and shirts with zippers are easier to unzip when you get hot than pulling a sweater overhead. Outfits with lots of small accessories or pieces will be annoying.
Material Matters
Pay attention to the material clothing is made from. Wool, fleece, synthetics, down and other insulated materials hold heat the best. Avoid cotton since it absorbs and holds moisture, stealing your warmth. Waterproof outer layers also help block wind and moisture from chilling you.
Alternative Warmth Solutions
If you can’t layer up with bulky clothes due to mobility issues, consider alternative warmth solutions. Hand muffs allow you to rest your hands inside a warm pouch. Stadium seat pads or cushions provide extra insulation when sitting. You can even find mini seat warmers that plug into your outlet.
Don’t Overdo It
It’s easy to overdress since you expect an ice arena to be freezing. Too many layers can lead to sweating which then chills you. Shed layers as soon as you start feeling too warm. Most venues turn on heated air so temperatures are not dangerously cold.
Conclusion
Disney on Ice provides an enchanting experience for families and Disney fans. With the right outfit, you can stay comfortable and cozy as you enjoy the show’s magical performance. Layer up with thermals, sweaters, jackets, hats, gloves, and socks. Stay dry in waterproof materials. Accessorize with blankets, warmers, and Disney flair. Get ready to sing along in style at this frozen, fabulous production!