Best time to reserve at GCH for December visit?

[katejc]

I've checked the Christmas thread, but still wondering: How early should we book a stay at GCH for first week of December? Also, what's the best way to book--online, through AAA, or...? We have 2 deluxe APs but will need one 5 day hopper. And also wondering if we should try to do the candlelight procession or avoid that weekend in favor of lighter crowds? Any advice is much appreciated!

 

[larina]

I always book as soon as I pick my dates. You can adjust later if there's a better offer, but you can't book if they're sold out.
Have fun, I love Christmas at DL!

 

[specialks]

You should be able to get special AP rates when you sign in online. Those will most likely be lower than AAA or Costco, not to mention it sounds like you need a hotel only ressie not a vacation package. I've never felt like the AAA hotel rates are any better than booking direct.

 

[Argento]

I always book as soon as I pick my dates. You can adjust later if there's a better offer, but you can't book if they're sold out.

Agreed, Disneyland is awesome about applying discounts after booking. Just make sure to pay attention for their promotions because you do have to call and request that your booking be updated to reflect the current promotion and get the discount.

 

[larina]

Any seniors in your party? They usually get a better rate (we get 30% off when we book senior rate through Disney directly vs. 15% with AAA) than any other offer.

 

[katejc]

Thanks for the tips! No seniors yet...but we will go ahead and reserve, then hope for some deals to come along! Our APs won't be activated til we get there...but once they are we can get the AP discount, right?