Disney World Summer 2018 Day 4 MagicBands Not Working

Our day started at the fantastic California Grill for Sunday Brunch. We then had a very rainy day at Animal Kingdom before returning to California Grill to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks. However, rain was not the only problem we encountered as MagicBands were not working!

California Grill Brunch at the Contemporary Resort is a fantastic experience. The venue is elegant, with outstanding service & superb food. A small band play jazz whilst you eat.

We have attended California Grill Brunch once before and it has become a must-do meal. Today it did not disappoint and was of the same high standard.

We have previously reviewed California Grill Brunch including video highlights on Modern Life is Good. We will update this review in the coming weeks.

Animal Kingdom was unfortunately a bit of a washout. From early afternoon there was heavy rain and episodes of thunder and lightning. Although we managed to complete several attractions there was several prolonged periods of taking shelter from the storm. The park looked fantastic when we first arrived before the rain started. However, we noted that some of the vibrant colours of Pandora have faded over the course of the year.

Perhaps worse that the rain, MagicBands were not working! Whilst they worked for Fastpasses they were not functioning for Disney Dining Plan or making cash payments.

MagicBands have perhaps been one of the greatest developments at Walt Disney World in recent years. When they work well they are great but if they are not working then your day can quickly turn into a disaster.

Today MagicBands were working intermittently which meant you could not use your Disney Dining Plan or make cash purchases. Disney are increasingly encouraging a cashless system which means it isn’t fun if you have no way to buy even a bottle of water.

Whilst I accept that inevitably MagicBands will fail from time to time I do think that some notice should be provided. Surely it wouldn’t be too difficult for signs to be at resorts and park entrances to advise guests of the difficulties? Finding out from a cashier you can’t pay for your lunch isn’t too great an experience!

Our day finished back at the Contemporary to watch the Magic Kingdom Fireworks from the California Grill’s Balcony. The balcony offers a superb view and is a great end to the day.

Despite the hiccups we did have another great day in the World of the Mouse. Tomorrow we are off to Hollywood Studios for an extended visit to Toy Story Land.

You can read more of our Orlando 2018 Blogs here.