I have done it both ways, dining package with FP, and dessert party. I would pick the dessert party, hands down, every time. With the FP, you have to arrive and line up SO early to get a shot at a rail. Then you sit. And sit. More and more people squish in. Then you all have to stand up, and you start to feel like a sardine. If you didn't get a rail spot, chances are your view might be blocked if you're short (like me) or somebody hikes their kids up on their shoulders and blocks your view-- all too common. Whereas if you have the dessert party, you don't have to line up so early-- your spot is guaranteed, so if you roll up 10 minutes before the show starts, you'll still get a good seat with a good view. I still like to get there a good 45 minutes to an hour early, because then you have time to order your two drinks and enjoy some of the snacks while you wait comfortably in your chair. Also sometimes the CMs will ask you which seating you prefer-- we had the high tops at the rail and it was incredible.. You may have to share with somebody if you're a party of 2 or 3-- DH and I shared with a mom and her daughter last time, but it was fine.