There are some downright strange traditions that people follow in Disney World, but we approve of them.

When planning a Disney World trip, it can feel like learning a new language. Things like Lightning Lane and MagicBand+, and all of the acronyms (DAK, MK, TTC, etc). Scheduling can be shockingly detailed, and fans in the parks certainly have some interesting obsessions. So today, we’re breaking down some weird traditions you’ll probably only see in Disney World.

Trash Cans Are Revered

Only in Disney World are trash cans an entire way of life. People “ooh” and “ahh” over trash can designs in Disney World to the point that some have even been made into merchandise. And on top of that, they’re commonly used as tables…there are whole memes about it on the internet.

Essentially, if you’ve never eaten on top of an EPCOT trash can during a festival, have you really been to Disney World? It’s kind of a rite of passage. And show the trash cans some respect — they do have a cult following, after all.

Smells Are an Obsession

Speaking of weird obsessions…what about the Disney World SMELLS?! Some rides, attractions, and locations are known for their unique scents. So much so that people make candles and wax melts themed to things like the water on Pirates of the Caribbean or baked goods in Main Street Confectionery.

We love a good whiff of a popcorn stand just as much as the next guy, but some of the best smells aren’t even in the parks…they’re in the hotel lobbies! Seriously, sometimes it’s nice to just sit in the Grand Flo lobby, inhale, and relax.

You Spill Your Secrets to a Stranger

The Disney characters are SO friendly that even though you’ve never met them before your vacation, you may find yourself spilling all your secrets to them. Mickey Mouse or Princess Belle can be incredibly good listeners when you stop by for a chat. 

It’s sometimes surprising how much a short meet-and-greet can make such a big impact on your vacation vibes. That’s why we often recommend meeting characters — it may not be the most thrilling pastime, but the interactions can be incredibly memorable.

Fan Clubs for Robots

Across Disney World, there are literally hundreds of animatronics. And some are INCREDIBLY popular! From the foxy scientist on Spaceship Earth to John Progress on Carousel of Progress, it’s like some of these robots have literal fan clubs.

Of course, we can’t help it if we’re simping for the Captain Jack Sparrow animatronic on Pirates of the Caribbean or if the drunk hippo on “it’s a small world” makes us giggle every time. And don’t even get us started on those birds in the Tiki Room — true icons in the animatronic world!

Carry Cafeteria Trays and Tupperware in Your Backpack

When you’re as dedicated to Disney snacks as we are, you pack some pretty strange things in your park bag. When we hit EPCOT on the opening days of festivals, you’ll often see us carrying trays for our food spreads, and on busy snack days, we’ve got backpacks filled with Tupperware. 

And this odd behavior is just the price we pay for enjoying lots of delicious Disney eats. So what if we get awkward stares from the people around us when we whip out a container and pack up our cupcake?

Quoting Our Favorite Rides and Shows

Last but not least, there are very few places in the world where you’ll find so many people quoting rides and attractions with absolute gusto. From guests saying “Hang on!” to quoting the full stretching room spiel, Disney fans enjoy sharing their favorite quotes. 

So if you find yourself doing any of these things in Disney World, you might be a MAJOR Disney fan! It’s kind of incurable, but you can definitely help the symptoms with frequent vacations and lots of Disney movies at home. For more Disney news, tips, and more, follow us at DFB!

Four 9 PM Habits Expert Disney Fans Practice

 

Which of these bizarre traditions do you do? Tell us in the comments!