Those where some things I try to consider when I am planning a birthday for myself or a family member at Disney on a budget. Disney Vacation Club (DVC) gives the greatest opportunity for homeowners or those renting through authorized DVC rental sites. I recently celebrated a big birthday number and while Disney birthday parties are mainly associated with kids or family only. I was able to celebrate my birthday with 24 friends and family in orlando. I reserved a Polynesian bungalow and a side room with my points for my family and select number of friends. This room on its own was the gathering location for the big day. I was able to bring platters from a nearby grocery store for the party day and keep in the fridge along with drinks. I can tell you all that cost around $300 and bonus polynesian had delicious food so I could supplement if needed.

That one night I was also able to watch the water parade that happens usually around 8-9p.m. weather permitting. Plus with a view of the castle we were able to see and hear the fireworks show. Granted this is best if you have DVC points for at least 2 nights, but the polynesian bungalows are not always possible.

Now Fort wilderness cabins are a great afforable option to enjoy a birthday there. There was actually 8 birthday parties we saw as we drove around in a golf cart you can rent on the property. Some benfits to make it a great benefit:

1. If you have an RV or want to camp this is one of the least expensive options available on disney property

2. You can also get cabins, which come with their own BBQ and outdoor/indoor tables

3. You can fit 6 people maybe more with children 2 or under who share beds.

4. You can decorate with lawn stakes, inflatable, banners like you are at a park.

5. Nightime sing a long campfire thats free to participate plus you can bring or purchase smores kits to make the night fun

6. After the campfire theres a movie that plays, so you can pop some popcorn from your room

7. Also near certain holidays you have the golf cart parades plus you can decorate your cart even if its not a holiday and just for the birthday.

In the Parks, becomes a little more difficult, but here's my tips:

Magic Kingdom: Tom Sawyer Island at Walt Disney World, has a spot with a little cafe on the other side of where you are initially dropped off. You can always have someone get there a little early to get some spots. I have heard toon town in Disneyland had an area for birthdays for not too bad of a price.

Epcot: It a huge park and there I recommend lunch at a restaurant or at the Sunshine seasons you can get food and there's usually plenty of space to get tables together as its a quick service. Plus theres a couple of rides in the area and a show that people can do an come back to the group area. In some restaurants and areas around the park you can get a mickey cake brought to the room.

MGM: does not have a lot of space aside from getting reservations for a restaurant. The Sci-Fi diner is a great place and the cars fit 6 people, but chairs can be tight so if you have a plus size person or mobility issues ask for the cars with chairs. You get a different experience but you will more comfortable.

The main thing if you are doing a big group on a budget make sure everyone know the cost of the main day and make other days or events optional. This helps avoid surprises or anyone feeling like they were left out.