Busier during Spring Break or Christmas?

[Cinderpals]

I went to WDW this past Christmas Holiday. The crowds weren't as bad as I had anticipated, but it may have been due to very cold weather. We avoided the MK during the day on the 26th and 27th (it closed attendance to the Mk early on the 27th). While arriving via WL boat to the Mk, we saw the largest crowd I had ever seen waiting to get into the park! I felt like turning around. We found out that they had a computer snafu, and it took longer to get through the gates.

Now, we're going the week before Easter as the flights were too good for us to pass up, our rooms were reasonably priced with a PIN discount, we have AP passes, and our plans to see family on the West Coast fell apart. We plan on spending at least one full day at one of the water parks, and going early to each of the parks, leaving by lunch. We have friends to visit, and I really want to take a good look at each of the DVC resorts. I'm looking forward to the weather being pleasant during this time. So, if the crowds are too unbearable, we'll have other things to do in Orlando.

 

[CarolMN]

I've never been during Christmas, but have been during Easter. Normally we travel in early December, but we've also visited in October, January, February & March.

We found Easter busy, but managable. I'd go again that time if the opportunity presented.

From what I've heard, the week bwteeen Christmas and New Year's Day is the absolute busiest time - I would not go during that time unless I didn't care about the rides. For me, a Christmas trip would have to be only for the atmosphere & shows and enjoying the resorts - and maybe a parade or fireworks or two. I hate standing in line for over an hour to ride attractions like Peter Pan, Star Wars, Dinosaur, Winnie the Pooh or Pirates, etc. Never have to in the slower seasons.

Anyway, if you can deal with Christmas, you will not have a problem dealing with Easter. JMHO. YMMV.

Best wishes -


Best wishes -

 

[MiaSRN62]

We arrived the week before Easter in '99. We left to go home on Easter morning. The week leading up to the weekend wasn't too bad, but come Fri and Sat before Easter it was a madhouse, particularily Sat in the MK. It was 90 degrees and we were shoulder to shoulder with the crowds. I recall alot of 90 min waits that day. In contrast, we were in the AK on the Thurs before Easter and felt like we had the place to ourselves. I've never been to WDW Christmas week so can't compare.

 

[Cinderpals]

Thanks for posting any experience of crowds either during Spring break or Christmas.

We are not planning on visiting MK during Sat or Sunday on Easter, unless Sunday early morning. We'll find a church to visit on Sunday, and go to our friends for Easter Meal.

Christmas week leading up to Christmas was very manageable. I'm used to very light crowds during off season. We found that if we visited the parks early and later in the evening, we were fine and got to ride everything that we wanted to. My son and I rode Splash Mountain 5 times in a row during one of the Parades. On busier times, the parks stay open later too.

When I get back, I'll definitely post a trip report.

 

[db78]

We have been both times, and I can tell you Christmas is much busier. The crowds are enormous. Spring break is more spread out, so crowds are much more manageable. However, since we go often, it doesn't bother us we can't get on all the rides at Christmas time. If park commando is your thing, don't go at Christmas. Whatever you decide, have fun!

 

[travelbug]

I've had the same experience as db78. Having been down there more than once at Easter and at Christmas, I've also found Christmas week to be definitely busier than Easter week.

Early entry and fast passes, plus longer hours of operation, are definitely a big help in managing the crowds at those times.

 

[lisatx04]

Just my 2 cents...

I have been at Easter twice and Christmas once. Although the decorations at Christmas are amazing, I definitely prefer Easter. I think the crowds are quite manageable in the spring and the weather is usually better (in my experience).

Whatever you decide, enjoy!!