We got married at the GCH on December 23, 2001, so we've spent our share of anniversaries at the hotel by doing Christmas Eve and Day over the last 6 years. It's really not that bad. I would do Christmas Eve check-in and the 4 days following. That way you are there when the "weekenders" go home, as a lot of people check out on Christmas Day. If you have family there, it's even better! It made the holiday really magical!
The key is not to focus on how many attractions to get done, but instead the atmosphere! I know it sounds odd, but you get lost in the holiday. The crowds just don't ever seem to matter. Just plan on only a handfull of traditional attractions per day and let the holiday extras, like the castle lighting, take over.
The decorations are so wonderful at the GCH! After dark, make sure to walk DTD and soak in the atmosphere. There's enough chill in the air and the bustle of lights, music, and crowds really fills you with the holiday spirit. After that, make sure to get a hot cocoa for everyone from the bar and go drink it while sitting by the fireplace while listening to the lobby pianist play holiday music.
The hotel itself doesn't do anything special besides Santa in the lobby and the carolers. He is the best Santa, though and we go there specifically to get our girls photos with him anf his beautiful burgundy suit! The other best place for Santa photos is in the Reindeer Roundup area of DL. Mrs. Santa is always out and about there and she is priceless - the nicest lady who spent quality time with my girls last year. Other Santa spots are at the Paradise Pier Hotel and the beach Santa at CA. We've never visited with him at the DL Hotel, but other characters are found in the lobby there. One of the few hidden Meet & Greet locations. Cinderella and Alice can even be seen there on a regular basis.
All in all, the most important advice is make your dining plans early by calling 714-781-DINE. As far as holiday meals go, the Napa Rose has a special set price menu and if that is up your alley, then make reservations early. I think Steakhouse 55 is the same way. Storytellers has their usual buffet with the additional non-buffet menu. There are special desserts and such throughout the parks, like the yule log at the Plaza.
And by the way, the park is actually pretty quiet first thing on Christmas morning. We actually like to take our gifts down to the tree in the lobby and open them there while others are having breakfast. We got that idea from some of the folks when we did Concierge one year (which is worth doing BTW). You are the envy of everyone in the lobby!
Hope this helps! Maybe we'll see you there!
Nancy
Also I'm thinking that the hotel will do something special for the kids on Christmas morning. The Grand is so beautiful at Christmas. They will have the huge Christmas tree, and in the front of it sits Santa at arranged times. Period costumed carolers sing in the lobby too. Oh and the warm inviting hearth, that they tell stories by. I love it!!!
