How Busy is Disney in December?
Introduction
December is one of the most popular times to visit the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, with millions of visitors flocking to the parks to enjoy the holiday festivities, events, and decorations. But just how busy is Disney in December? In this article, we’ll dive into the secrets of Disney’s busiest month and provide you with valuable insights to help you plan your trip.
Crowd Levels
Disney’s crowd levels are categorized into five levels, with Level 5 being the busiest and Level 1 being the least busy. In December, Disney’s crowd levels typically range from a 9 to a 10, with some days reaching a 10+. This means that you can expect large crowds at all four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Best and Worst Days to Visit
Here are the best and worst days to visit Disney in December, according to historical crowd patterns:
- Best days:
- Weekdays (Monday to Thursday): These days tend to be less crowded than weekends, making them ideal for families with young children or those who prefer shorter lines.
- Special events days: Visiting on days with special events, such as the Christmas Parade or the Candlelight Processional, can be a great way to avoid crowds, as many people opt for these events over regular park hours.
- Worst days:
- Weekends: Saturdays and Sundays are typically the busiest days, with longer wait times and larger crowds.
- Holidays: Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year’s Day (January 1) are usually the busiest days of the month, with extended park hours and special events drawing in massive crowds.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Here are some insider tips for minimizing your wait times and avoiding crowds in December:
- Arrive early: Get to the parks early, just before opening, to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: This app allows you to reserve FastPass+ experiences, check wait times, and even order food from your phone.
- Take advantage of free resort transportation: If you’re staying at a Disney resort, use the free bus transportation to get to the parks, avoiding the risk of parking hassles and long walks.
- Consider visiting during less popular attractions: Some attractions, like the Jungle Cruise or It’s a Small World, tend to be less crowded than highly popular ones like Space Mountain or Splash Mountain.
- Enjoy the holiday treats: With sugar cookies, gingerbread, and hot cocoa galore, the holiday season is a great excuse to indulge in some festive treats and take a break from the crowds.
Special Events and Celebrations
December brings a plethora of special events and celebrations to the Disney World Resort. Some of the must-see events include:
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: A favorite among kids and adults alike, this special event features festive music, decorations, and characters in their holiday finery.
- Disney’s Candlelight Processional: This beloved holiday tradition tells the story of Christmas through music and narration, with a special appearance by Santa Claus.
- Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays: This global celebration of holiday traditions and cuisines is a must-visit for foodies and culture buffs.
- A Frozen Holiday Wish: A holiday lights and decorations display fit for a queen (or two), Queen Elsa and Anna.
Accommodation and Dining
If you’re planning to visit in December, book your accommodations and dining reservations well in advance to avoid disappointment. Here are some tips:
- Book your resort stay: A minimum of 6-8 months in advance is recommended for Disney resorts, as they fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons like December.
- Make dining reservations: Popular restaurants like Be Our Guest and Cinderella’s Royal Table can be difficult to get into, so book them 60-90 days in advance to ensure availability.
- Consider character dining: If you’re traveling with children, character dining experiences like Chef Mickey’s or Akershus Royal Banquet Hall can be a great way to meet their favorite Disney characters while enjoying a meal.
Conclusion
While crowds are inevitable during the holiday season, with some planning and insider knowledge, you can minimize your wait times, enjoy the festivities, and make the most of your trip to the Walt Disney World Resort in December. From special events and celebrations to tips for avoiding crowds, we’ve got you covered. So pack your bags, grab your Mickey ears, and get ready for a magical holiday season at Disney!