How Busy is Disney World in August? A Guide to Help You Plan Your Trip
August is a popular time to visit the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, with schools on summer break and warm weather making it an ideal time to escape to the Happiest Place on Earth. But just how busy is Disney World in August? In this article, we’ll break down the crowds, special events, and tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Crowd Levels: August at Disney World
According to the TouringPlans.com crowd calendar, August is considered a 9 out of 10 in terms of crowd levels. The highest crowds are typically found on weekdays, with Fridays and Saturdays being the busiest days of the week.
Here’s a breakdown of the crowd levels by day:
| Day | Crowd Level |
|---|---|
| Monday | 7 out of 10 |
| Tuesday | 8 out of 10 |
| Wednesday | 9 out of 10 |
| Thursday | 8 out of 10 |
| Friday | 10 out of 10 |
| Saturday | 10 out of 10 |
| Sunday | 9 out of 10 |
Special Events: August at Disney World
August is a great time to experience special events and festivals at Disney World, including:
- Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival (mid-August to mid-November): This annual event celebrates food and wine from around the world with culinary demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music.
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (select nights in August): Get into the Halloween spirit with special trick-or-treating, character interactions, and a spooky atmosphere.
- ดนSeeing: Mickey’sBack-to-School Celebration (late August): Celebrate the start of the new school year with special character meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, and a scavenger hunt.
Tips for Visiting Disney World in August
To make the most of your trip in August, follow these tips:
- Arrive early: Get to the parks early to beat the heat and crowds. Open the gates at 8:00 am for rope drop.
- Use the My Disney Experience app: Plan your day with the official Disney app, which allows you to reserve FASTPASSes, check wait times, and even order food.
- Pack wisely: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget to stay hydrated!
- Take breaks: With the heat, it’s essential to take breaks in air-conditioned areas, like restaurants or shops.
- Consider visiting during the morning hours: Crowds tend to be smaller in the morning hours, making it an excellent time to hit your must-see attractions.
- Make dining reservations: August is a busy time for dining, so book your reservations well in advance to avoid long wait times.
- Consider staying at an on-site hotel: On-site hotels offer Extra Magic Hours (EMH), giving you access to the parks early or late, depending on your hotel category.
August Weather: What to Expect
August is typically one of the hottest months in Orlando, with average highs reaching 91°F (33°C). Be sure to:
- Pack light, breathable clothing: Light, loose-fitting clothing will help keep you cool in the heat.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
- Bring sunscreen and hats: Protect your skin from the intense sun with broad-spectrum sunscreens and hats.
Additional Tips for August Crowd Levels
- Avoid popular attractions at peak hours: Head to popular attractions like Space Mountain and Splash Mountain in the morning or late evening when crowds are smaller.
- Use the Single Rider line: Take advantage of the Single Rider line to minimize wait times on attractions like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith and the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
- Split up the party: If you’re visiting with a large group, consider splitting up to visit different parts of the park to minimize congestion.
Conclusion
While August can be a busy time at Disney World, with the right planning and preparation, you can still have a magical vacation. Take advantage of special events, festivals, and average summer temperatures to make the most of your trip. Don’t forget to pack wisely, stay hydrated, and take breaks to avoid burnout. With these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle the crowds and create unforgettable memories at the Walt Disney World Resort in August.