10 Conversation Starters with Disney Characters to Make Most Out of Meet n Greets

Meeting Disney characters at the Disney parks, cruise ships, and resorts is one of the most magical experiences! However, for some people, especially those who are more introverted, it can also feel a little awkward. Whether you're shy, nervous, or unsure of what to say, it's easy to feel out of your element when you meet beloved characters like Mickey, Elsa, or Buzz Lightyear. Especially when some of the masked characters don't talk back, it can definitely be a little weird to hold a full conversation with them! However, even as an introvert myself I can tell you not to worry about creating a special moment with these characters.

There are plenty of amazing opportunities to meet your favorite Disney characters during whatever Disney vacation you have planned! Although a lot of meet and greets have designated areas and times that can be found on the Disneyland or Disney World mobile apps, there are also often characters wondering around the parks, so it's always good to be on the lookout!

If you're still a little nervous and unsure of how to interact with your favorite Disney characters, we have created a list of 10 Conversation Starters with Disney Characters you can use to feel more prepared for your next Disney character interaction!

1. Ask About Their Costars

Some of my go-to questions for Disney characters is to ask about other characters from their storyline. For example, if you're visiting Alice in Wonderland at EPCOT, you can ask, “What is the White Rabbit up to lately? Is he late for any events today?” I guarantee the character you're visiting will appreciate this question and have a great answer! They may even ask you about some of the “costars” in your own life, such as a pet or a close friend. The last time I met Mulan, she talked a lot about Mushu, her companion that can be mischievous at times but also brings her good luck!

Asking Disney characters about their costars or friends from their storyline is one of many conversation starters you can use during your next trip!

2. Involve the Disney Theme Parks

Another great conversation starter with Disney characters is to ask a question involving the theme parks. For example, you could ask Elsa, “If you were to build another ice palace anywhere in Disney World, where would you put it?” You could also ask any character about their favorite Disney theme park, snack, or attraction!

Not only could you ask them about the theme parks, but you can also talk to them about your day and what you've accomplished so far. If you're at EPCOT and recently took a trip to space on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, let them know! Talking about your Disney vacation or asking about their favorite things to do in the parks is another great conversation starter you can use next time you meet a Disney character.

3. Ask Questions Related to Their Personality or Hobbies

Another great conversation starter can be related to the Disney character's personality or hobbies. As we know, the beloved character Donald Duck is usually pretty feisty! Therefore, you could ask him if anything in particular has been bothering him today, or is there's a reason behind all that attitude! These types of questions are a lot of fun and are guaranteed to get a reaction out of whatever character you are interacting with.

Similarly, every Disney character has their own hobby, lifestyle, and unique viewpoint in life. If you meet someone like Rapunzel, you could ask if she's seen any new and exciting sights from her tower, or how exactly she manages to keep her hair so perfect. When meeting Moana, you could ask what her favorite part of her beautiful island is, or how she deals with Maui's cocky personality.

Asking Disney characters about their hobbies, personality, and overall day to day life can be a great conversation starter and can help make interactions even more special, even for introverts.

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4. Get Their Autograph

One of my favorite Disney souvenirs, especially when meeting characters, is to get their autograph! Most guests purchase or bring their own autograph book, however we have also seen guests ask characters to sign other items such as water bottles, t-shirts, or tote bags. Not only can these be a special souvenir, but it is a super easy way to make a character interaction a lot less awkward.

Even if it's hard to start a conversation, asking a character for their autograph is an easy ice breaker and will definitely create a fun interaction. It will feel a lot less uncomfortable walking up to a character with nothing to say or do if you have your autograph book in hand and ready for them to sign!

5. Point Out Similarities or Other Personal Connections

Oftentimes, the reason why you want to meet a specific Disney character is because you feel connected to them on some level. Whether you share a common personality, story, or if you simply love their character and want to match their vibe with an article of clothing or accessory.

A very simple icebreaker or conversation starter is to point out a specific connection you have with the character. For example, if you're wearing a Star Wars t-shirt, you can talk about it with Ahsoka, the Mandalorian, or even Darth Vader! Sometimes they may have an adverse reaction – for example, Darth Vader might not like that you're wearing the same headband as Ahsoka. However, it still can make for a funny interaction!

Sometimes Disney characters will point out these connections even before you do. Characters love talking about outfits they see, especially if you are Disney bounding as a specific character! Whether it's an article of clothing, shared experience, or something else, a shared connection you have with a Disney character can be a very special conversation topic during any interaction.

6. Ask About Their Day

A simple but very effective conversation starter can be to ask the Disney character about their day! You can both take turns sharing stories about your day, the last few days, and any future plans! I have found this question works pretty well with any of the Disney princesses because they often have a lot to share. They are often busy taking care of family, having adventures, and working on their hobbies!

For example, you can ask Tiana about her day, which could involve baking her famous beignets or whipping up a batch of gumbo. You may even earn extra points by having a story to share if it relates to their story! For example, if you took time to try a Mickey-shaped beignet or experience Tiana's Bayou Adventure that day, I'm sure Tiana would love to hear about it!

Although it may seem mundane or not as interesting as other conversation starters, simply asking about their day or future plans is a great conversation starter if you can't think of anything to ask a Disney character!

7. Let the Characters Drive the Conversation

Although it can feel weird walking up to interact with a Disney character, they know exactly how to read the room and start a conversation when needed. They are great at reading body language, especially if someone is a bit shy. Some of the best interactions I have experienced are when you let the character start the conversation. I can absolutely guarantee, even if you're a bit nervous and don't have much or anything to say, the character will make you feel special! I have seen so many guests say nothing at all, except maybe smile and nod, and still have an incredible character experience!

Whether or not you decide to use some of our conversation starters, you can always count on the character you're meeting to drive the conversation!

8. Ask for a Photo

If you can't think of anything to say during the few moments of your character interaction, you can always simply ask for a photo with them! Photos are usually expected during each character interaction, so it will feel natural and it won't throw off the conversation or feel uncomfortable. If you're feeling a bit more confident, you can even ask the characters to take photos using different poses, such as your arms outstretched wide, “Charlie's Angels” pose, or something else that would fit the character.

If you're traveling with a group and want individual or couple photos, don't be afraid to ask! The characters and character attendants only wish for you to get the most out of each character interaction, which could include photos with the whole group, individuals, and/or smaller groups. Asking the Disney characters to take various types of photos is a great conversation starter!

9. Ask About Their Favorite Food or Activity

Especially with characters such as Winnie the Pooh, Chip ‘n' Dale, or Meeko, asking about their favorite food is always a great conversation starter! Especially if you are at a character dining restaurant, the topic of food can be an easy way to start an interaction!

I've seen some mischievous characters try to steal food off plates, or even just get a quick whiff or taste! We absolutely love visiting the various character dining restaurants at Disneyland and Disney World, as they have some of the best food and the best character meet and greets! For more on character dining, we've also crafted our top five tips on how to enjoy Disney character meals as an introvert!

10. Wing It!

Although your first few conversation starters may need to be planned, you may find yourself more comfortable than you thought! It's easy to realize that each character interaction truly is a special experience for each guest. Meeting characters at Disney theme parks, Disney cruises, and the various resorts is one of the most magical and exciting experiences for visitors of all ages.

Therefore, once you feel more comfortable (or your mind becomes blank when trying to start a conversation), just wing it! Whether you take one of our conversation starters, or merely think of something on the fly, you will always have an amazing experience while meeting some of the Disney characters. No matter your age or who you're traveling with, these character interactions are a huge reason why Disney vacations are truly the best!

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