There is a new trend sweeping the parks, but it only takes place twice a year and on certain dates. This event is called “Dapper Days”. How do you become involved? Where does it all take place? In order to find out, several TravelingMoms took to the Walt Disney World parks during the recent spring event. Retro TravelingMom joined in with the mission of finding out exactly what you need to know to attend.

Those unknowingly wandering into Dapper Days during their family vacation might wonder if they’d accidentally stepped into a time warp.  This is because, during these events, thousands of guests take to the parks dressed up in their most “dapper” ensembles.

Dapper Days at Disney

While Dapper Days at Disney event is not set up to be themed after a certain time period, I found it pretty easy to pick up on the predominately 1950’s vibes.

As my family and I entered the Magic Kingdom park, on the first day of the event, we found the courtyards full of people picnicking.  As my daughter recalls it, “There were parasols for as far as the eye could see.”

Even though I knew that this event was taking place, I was still shocked by a number of people participating!

How to Get Involved

I was interested to find out that the Dapper Days events are not actually put on by Disney. Even though the parks definitely seem to embrace this crowd, it is an unofficial gathering simply meant to bring people together.

Because this event is open to anyone and is not additionally ticketed, it is extremely easy to get involved in. All that’s needed to be involved is a ticket to the right park on the right day. Plus, a little bit of imagination. Perfect for Disney, right?

This year, the Walt Disney World spring outing took place on Saturday, April 29th and Sunday, April 30th. It was a two-day event that began in the Magic Kingdom and finished out over in Epcot.

Now that we understand what Dapper Days is and how we can get involved, the only thing left to do is to simply dress the part.

What to Wear to Dapper Days

The overall sense of the Dapper Day events is simply to get people excited about dressing up to visit the parks. This notion of style could possibly be your Sunday best or I’ve noticed a growing trend of people who like to Disneybound their outfits.

Since Disney has a strict “no costume” policy, it is important to remember not break the rules. Most people tend to dress in either vintage clothing or simply in something that has flair. For this event, it is definitely more about looking and feeling good than playing a part.

Being the retro-loving TravelingMom that I am, I always tend to have a closet full of vintage inspired outfits purposefully for events like these. Although, if you’re having trouble finding something you feel is fitting, remember that anything can look vintage when you pair it with the right hairstyle. Simply throw in a couple of victory rolls and you’re good to go!

How to Take it One Step Further

While many simply like to enjoy the people watching splendor of these events, those wanting to go “all in” can find several extra “Dapper Day” happenings around the parks.

During the spring event, there was a special dress pop up shop in the Emporium on Main Street USA. This shopping experience features dresses from The Dress Shop in Disney Springs brought over for purchase. What’s different about The Dress Shop is that they carry character inspired vintage dresses.

Some of the Disney bakeries offered special “Dapper Day” themed cupcakes for the event. These cupcakes featured top hats and florals, giving them a stylish and retro appearance.

Finally, if you want to keep up to date with what everyone else was wearing or doing, head on over to Instagram.  I spent hours browsing over the public posted photos. This event has become quite a social media extravaganza!

Before stumbling upon it this year, I had never heard of this event. I was surprised at how amazing it really was. If you enjoy vintage apparel or simply like the feel good inspiration of the event, be sure to check it out.

According to the official Dapper Day website, the next event to be held at Walt Disney Parks is November 18th – 19th. However, these Dapper Day events don’t only take place in Walt Disney World. They can also be found at Disneyworld California and in Paris.

Looking to experience vintage Disney year round? Check out this article: Retro Disney – Where to Find it.