Before or during Christmas???

[Woodcourt]

We have been to WDW a week before Christmas and have been there the week after New Years, but have toyed with the idea of actually being at WDW on Christmas and New Years!

I know there has got to be something magical about that, but we were running into big crowds at the end of our December trip (16-21st) and at the beginning of our Jan trip (2-8).

Is it really worth the crowds to be there on Christmas/New Years or better to keep going as we have when the crowds are lighter. We just can not decide!

Thanks!

 

[lindsey]

We have been twice during Christmas Week because of child in school. In the past we had been twice the week before Christmas. I vote for before and/or after if you are able to go then.

 

[BeachBaby310]

I think you should go with before Christmas. If you go Christmas week the crowds are very high which would be ok if you plan to spend a lot of time at your resort.

 

[beccasmom]

We've been there several times right before Christmas and have toyed with the idea of being there for the holiday. We've always talked ourselves out of it......at least so far. The crowds are daunting.....but it is quite a party!

 

[ciera321]

We just returned on Tuesday and the crowds are really picking up. On Friday 12/17 there was NO wait (I even took a picture of the empty waiting area) in line for RNR or TOT, but Tuesday 12/21 there were 70 minute waits at the MK for SM and 35 for BLSRS. I would say go at least a week before Christmas to avoid the bigger crowds!! Even with crowds, DW is a great place to be!!!!!

 

[Yacht Club Guy]

If you do not mind crowds, go during. It matters on your opinion...

 

[cyndibelle]

stick with before christmas or after....during is too busy....ohh the crowds....no way...

 

[missminniemouse]

Definately before Christmas...so you can take advantage of all the special holiday offerings without all the crowds. We were just there the 9-18th and it was great! Lines were minimal most of the time, with weekends being busier than during the week. We took advantage of the dining package for Candlelight Processional, did MVMCP, saw the Osborne lights, and loved the special version of Illuminations at EPCOT.

 

[jillhou]

Just got back.

We got there December 17 for the MVMCP and stayed until yesterday afternooon (Wed, Dec 22). We didn't find the crowds too bad for anything. We didn't even use fastpass except at RNR and TOT at MGM Studios. Rode RNR 4 times total - twice with FP. Only used FP to ride TOT (and only rode 1 time). We found going to MK in the evening to be very helpful - we rode Splash many, many times after 9 pm. OH - we did use FP for 1 ride on Buzz - but just cause we had gotten it - wait was only 10-15 minutes.

Biggest problem was in making last minute eating arrangements, but it all worked out great. Enjoyed 50s Prime Time Diner VERY much with Auntie Ellen as our waiter. CRT was nice and the Luau at the Poly was nice. Food was definitely better than the first time we did this (about 15 yrs ago) and although the whole 'premise' was hokey - the actual dancing was very good. Kids enjoyed the fire guy VERY much. Waitress was GREAT.

We have been there at Christmas - VERY crowded Christmas day - definitely would never plan to be there all day on Dec 25. Have done NYE and NYD, too and again - no MK on those days! My advice is to go before. Evidently quite a few schools are still in session before Christmas.

It is a good time no matter when you go - just go with the flow - spend more time at resort or shopping or seeing shows....just depends on priorities.

 

[sugermouse]

I wouldn't let the crowd level dictate your decision. There is nothing like spending xmas and new years in WDW. It is magical beyond words. We leave tomorrow.

 

[Woodcourt]

bump...to catch those who spent Christmas there