Walt Disney World is a magical place all year round, but visiting during the holidays takes the enchantment to a whole new level. The park is adorned with twinkling lights, festive decor, and special entertainment, making it an unforgettable experience for families and friends alike. To ensure you make the most of your holiday trip to the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” here are our top 10 tips for visiting Walt Disney World during the holiday season.
- Plan Ahead and Book Early
The holiday season is one of the busiest times at Walt Disney World. To avoid disappointments and long waiting times, plan your visit well in advance. Book your tickets, accommodations, and dining reservations early to secure your preferred dates and avoid the rush. Utilize the My Disney Experience app to manage your reservations and keep track of your itinerary.
- Be Mindful of Crowds
Expect larger crowds during the holiday season, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. To maximize your time and minimize wait times, consider visiting during less crowded periods like the first two weeks of December. Use the early entry that are available for guests of any Disney resort, and the extra evening hours on select days for guests at a Deluxe Disney resort. Use Genie+ and purchase Individual Lightning Lanes to avoid long lines at the most popular attractions.
- Dress Comfortably and Festively
Be prepared for varying weather conditions during the holidays in Florida. It could be 80 degrees or 40 degrees! Dress in layers and don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes. Embrace the holiday spirit by wearing festive attire like holiday-themed shirts, Mickey ears with jingle bells, or Santa hats. Remember to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen as the sun can still be strong during this time.
- Enjoy Special Holiday Entertainment
Walt Disney World goes all out during the holidays with exclusive shows and parades. Catch the famous Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, and the beautiful Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Disney Springs. These special events are sure to fill your heart with joy and the holiday spirit.
- Taste the Seasonal Treats
Indulge your taste buds with seasonal treats unique to the holiday season. From gingerbread cookies and peppermint ice cream to festive churros and eggnog-flavored treats, there is an array of delectable delights waiting to be savored throughout the park. Keep an eye out for specialty food booths and holiday-themed dining experiences.
- Capture the Magic with Photos
Memories of your holiday visit to Walt Disney World will last a lifetime. Make sure to capture those magical moments by taking plenty of photos with your loved ones. Disney PhotoPass photographers are stationed throughout the park to help you get the perfect shots. Consider purchasing Memory Maker to access all your digital photos.
- Be patient in the parks
The holidays typically bring some of the biggest crowds of the entire year, so bring a little patience with you. You may not be able ride every attraction or see every character you want, but you can still have a wonderful time.
- Don’t Forget Park Hopper Passes
If you’re planning to visit multiple parks in a day, consider purchasing Park Hopper passes. This will enable you to experience more attractions and entertainment options across different parks, making the most of your time at Disney World. And if the park you go to is too crowded for you, then you can hop to a park that is less crowded.
- Embrace the Seasonal Decor
Take some time to explore the elaborate holiday decor throughout the parks and resorts. Each area is uniquely themed with stunning decorations, garlands, and Christmas lights. The resort hotels, in particular, are a sight to behold, so make sure to stroll through them to soak in the festive ambiance. My favorite is the gingerbread house display at the Grand Floridian. It’s amazing, so don’t miss it!
- Cherish the Magic of Disney
Above all, remember that the holidays are about cherishing the magic of togetherness and creating cherished memories with loved ones. Take your time to immerse yourself in the enchantment of Walt Disney World and enjoy the wonder and joy that the holiday season brings.
Visiting Walt Disney World during the holidays is an enchanting experience like no other. With these top 10 tips, you can make the most of your holiday visit, ensuring it’s filled with joy, wonder, and cherished memories. So, plan ahead, embrace the festive spirit, and get ready to be immersed in the magic of Disney during this most wonderful time of the year. Happy holidays and have a magical time at Walt Disney World!
