We attended 11/30. It wasn't packed but there were plenty of guests attending. We arrived at Cafe LaBamba at 4:20. There was about 15 groups in front of us and TM's started putting on wristbands at 4:30pm.
As you walk in the hot beverages are on the left. They also had a tray of hot/warm apple strudel.
Then the cold beverages in the left corner. We were served Coke & Sprite in 20oz bottles, flutes of champagne/Asti Spumante. They also had two plates of Twinkies covered in frosting. This line grew exponentially as the event got underway.
And two sections with Sweets & Savory items, serving from both sides so four lanes.
You could eat outside (fenced patio), dining room or grab a bench while waiting for the parade to start. FYI - people immediately grabbed those spots first.
After we were done eating at the patio, we went back in for bottled water and headed out to the parade viewing area. We ended up moving chairs next to the benches without issue. Many had chairs behind the benches and I don't think TM's wanted this but it really couldn't be helped. There was really no room for people to sit in front of the benches due to the fence. You couldn't see over them and it would have been rude to stand in front of those seated at the benches.
After the parade we went directly to where the Mannheim Steamroller concert was performing. I was surprised to see how much "open" space was already taken. The Desert Party Viewing area was pretty empty. At the entrance, wristbands were checked and cold beverages are available.
We headed towards the front staying near the left hand "divider". OP already mentioned the speaker which you can see on the upper right corner as well as the big screen.
Overall, I'm glad we booked it. It was a crowded day and into the evening hours as well. Even though this is Universal's second year hosting a Dessert Party I feel they should have learned from the first one.
- Sweet & Savory Trays took a while to be replenished.
- Guests mixed the tongs so those with allergies beware!
- Need more seating for the parade viewing area.
- Need to serve a few meat choices: sausages, meatballs something to nibble on with the cheese & pita slices.
- Need to serve cold beverages in TWO areas.
We'd give them 7 stars out of 10.