Several times each year Carol and I attend Disney-related events which do not take place in the theme parks. For us it’s an easy way to keep the magic alive without making that long trek south! It’s always fun sharing good times with people who also suffer from our Disney affliction!
Over the last few years I have written several blogs describing some of the Disney collectible or trading events we have enjoyed. In almost every case there has been a recurring theme in the comments people make after reading the blogs.
– “I wish I had known about this, I live very close by.”
– “I would love to know when this is next year!”
– “That sounds like so much fun; I’d love to go some time.”
So if you’re looking to spend some happy times with fellow Disney fans, here is a list of a few of those “non-theme park events” coming up in 2015. These can help you put the maximum “Disney magic” in your life!
1. Trade ’til You Fade – May 15-17, 2015 – Somerset New Jersey
This weekend-long event, organized annually by Central Jersey Disney Pin Traders, is a fun-filled experience for those who collect and trade Disney pins and Vinylmations.
There are games, raffles and even an optional gift exchange which can be hilarious! Full details are available on the Central Jersey Disney Pin Traders web site here: CJDPT
Read an AllEars.net blog about the 2012 event here: Trade ’til You Fade 2012
2. Dayton Disneyana – June 13 – 14, 2015 – Dayton Ohio
Another weekend long event, however this one caters to Disneyana collectors. The Dayton “Plane Crazy” Chapter of the Disneyana Fan Club do a wonderful job organizing this annual bonanza for Disneyana collectors.
A hotel ballroom is chock-full of vendor’s tables overflowing with high quality collectibles. This is not a flea market, these are real Disneyana collectors selling quality product.
There are always a few interesting speakers who pass on some interesting tidbits of Disney history and gossip.
Tables line the halls outside the ballroom for pin and Vinylmation traders.
Full details are available on the chapter’s web site: Dayton Disneyana
Read about previous events in these AllEars.net blogs:
Dayton Disneyana 2013
Dayton Disneyana 2014
3. Pacific Northwest Mouse Meet – July 11, 2015 – Lynnwood Washington
Carol and I have not attended this annual event held near Seattle; it’s a long way from where we live! But we have heard very good reviews from friends who have been there.
There are always some top-notch speakers and interesting activities.
You can read an AllEars.net blog about the 2014 event here: Pacific Northwest Mouse Meet 2014
The 2015 meet will be held at the Lynnwood Convention center in Lynnwood, Washington on Saturday, July 11, 2015. Speakers have not yet been finalized; keep an eye on their web site to confirm further details: Pacific Northwest Mouse Meet
4. Swap ’til You Drop – October 9-11, 2015 – Somerset New Jersey
Another weekend-long event, organized annually by Central Jersey Disney Pin Traders.
The format for this event is very similar to the Trade ’til You Fade event held each spring.
Refer to their web site here: CJDPT
So . . . if you’re feeling blue because you can’t get to one of the Disney parks . . . why don’t you plan to attend one of these locally organized fan events!
Disney fans always make a fun-loving group; imagine how easy it is to make new friends when you are surrounded by kindred spirits.
Maybe Carol and I will see you there!
How would I find an event in Illinois?
[Gary writes: Sorry Margie, I’m not aware of any events in Illinois.]
I want to echo Gary’s comments about the overnight CJDPT pin meets, usually held in the spring and fall in Somerset, NJ. We always drive from VA and spend two nights when we go; we have a lot of fun socializing, playing various games, eating, admiring each others’ pins, and of course even pin trade! If you can’t make it for the whole weekend, at least try to visit on Saturday, that’s when most of the activities are scheduled. There are door prizes, as well as prizes for the various games, such as Dom’s Name that ‘Toon, Pingo, Let’s Make a Steal, and some guy does a Disney Trivia contest that I hear can be a real bear! 😉 Come and stay as long as you can, I’m sure you’ll have a great time!
[Gary writes: You’re right James, it’s always a lot of fun! Looking forward to seeing you and Linda there.]