is december a good time to visit disney world

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04-12-2024

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Is December a Good Time to Visit Disney World? A Comprehensive Guide

December at Walt Disney World is a magical time, draped in twinkling holiday decorations and brimming with festive cheer. However, this enchanting atmosphere comes at a price – significantly higher crowds and prices than other times of the year. So, is December a good time to visit Disney World? The answer, as with most things Disney, is nuanced and depends heavily on your priorities and tolerance for crowds.

The Magic of a December Disney Trip:

Let's start with the undeniable charm. December at Disney World offers a unique experience unlike any other time of year. The parks are transformed into winter wonderlands, adorned with elaborate decorations, festive light displays, and charming holiday-themed merchandise. You'll encounter unique seasonal shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets, all contributing to an undeniably magical atmosphere.

• Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: This separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom is a highlight for many. Expect exclusive parades, fireworks, character meet-and-greets, and festive treats. While it adds cost, it significantly reduces daytime crowds during the party hours.

• Epcot's International Festival of the Holidays: This festival features international food booths, holiday-themed performances, and the Candlelight Processional, a breathtaking retelling of the Christmas story with celebrity narrators and a massive choir.

• Holiday Decorations Throughout the Resorts and Parks: From gingerbread houses to elaborate light displays, the attention to detail throughout Disney World's resorts and parks is breathtaking. Even a casual stroll is a visual feast.

• Cooler Temperatures (Relatively): While December in Florida is still warm, it offers a slight respite from the intense summer heat. Evenings can be pleasantly cool, making outdoor activities more comfortable.

The Challenges of a December Disney Trip:

Despite the festive cheer, December presents several significant challenges:

• Crowds: This is the biggest hurdle. December is one of the busiest times of the year for Disney World, with families traveling during school holidays and embracing the festive season. Expect significantly longer wait times for rides, more congested pathways, and difficulty securing dining reservations.

• High Prices: With increased demand, prices for everything – park tickets, hotels, dining, and even merchandise – skyrocket in December. Budget accordingly, as the cost of a December trip can be substantially higher than during the slower seasons.

• Limited Availability: Hotels and dining reservations fill up months, sometimes even a year, in advance. Securing your preferred accommodations and dining experiences requires meticulous planning and booking well ahead of time.

• Potential for Inclement Weather: While Florida's December weather is generally pleasant, there's always a chance of rain or even the occasional cooler day. Pack layers and be prepared for potential changes in plans.

Weighing the Pros and Cons: Is December Right for You?

The decision of whether to visit Disney World in December hinges on your priorities and tolerance for crowds and expenses.

Consider a December trip if:

• You prioritize the holiday atmosphere: If experiencing the unique magic of Disney World during the holiday season is paramount, then the crowds and costs might be a worthwhile sacrifice.

• You're willing to plan extensively: Booking well in advance is crucial to securing accommodations, dining reservations, and potentially tickets to special events like Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

• You have a higher budget: Be prepared for significantly higher costs compared to other times of the year.

• You enjoy large crowds (or don't mind them too much): December's crowds are substantial. If crowds significantly impact your enjoyment, consider another time of year.

Consider postponing your trip if:

• Crowds are a major concern: If long wait times and congested parks significantly diminish your enjoyment, December is likely not the ideal time to visit.

• You're on a tight budget: The high prices associated with December travel could make the trip financially challenging.

• You need a relaxing vacation: The sheer number of people and the frantic pace can make a December trip far from relaxing.

Strategies for Mitigating the Challenges:

Even if you decide to visit in December, there are ways to mitigate some of the challenges:

• Book well in advance: This cannot be stressed enough. Start planning and booking your trip months, even a year, in advance.

• Utilize Disney's planning tools: Take advantage of My Disney Experience to make dining reservations, book Genie+ and Lightning Lane selections, and manage your park reservations.

• Consider the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party: This separately ticketed event allows you to experience the magic with significantly fewer daytime crowds.

• Prioritize must-do attractions: Focus on the rides and experiences you most want to enjoy and be prepared to compromise on others.

• Embrace the slow moments: Take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the decorations, festive snacks, and overall atmosphere even if you can't ride every ride.

• Pack for all types of weather: Layers are essential, as December weather in Florida can be unpredictable.

In Conclusion:

December at Disney World is undeniably magical, but it comes with significant crowds and higher costs. Whether it's a good time to visit depends entirely on your personal preferences and tolerance for these factors. By weighing the pros and cons, planning meticulously, and employing smart strategies, you can increase your chances of having a memorable and enjoyable holiday experience, even amidst the hustle and bustle. Just remember, meticulous planning is key to navigating the enchantment and the challenges of a December Disney adventure.