Christmas week at Disney, am I crazy?

[lookingforward]

We are planning a one week trip to Disney over Christmas, actually December 20 to the 27th. We have three children, 3, 8 and 11. Some people I talked to said we were "crazy" that the parks will be mobbed and we will not enjoy it. I called Disney and the CM told me it would be moderately busy from the 20th to 23rd, but the 24th to 27th would be very crowded. Is this accurate, also what is the weather like in December? Has anyone done Disney over Christmas? Any input would be much appreciated.

 

[robinb]

All I have to say ... if you're crazy, then so are we! We are staying at the Courtyard LLB from 12/25 - 12/30 and then we're moving to BWV for 5 days. This is our second Chistmas/New Year's Eve trip and our first one was fantastic!

Yes, the parks are mobbed. Resign yourself to that fact and work with it. Do early entry if you can. Use fast pass. Walk around the parks and enjoy the sights. Find the magic in the small things. Don't sweat the lines, or the crowds, or the people. Go with the flow.

One of our most treasured memories took place on 12/30/99 in Epcot. The place was packed to the gills. We were relaxing in the garden at the UK away from the crowds and we were joined by Peter Pan and Mary Poppins! They spent about 10 - 15 minutes with us flirting with our 4 month old daughter. Even through Epcot was packed, we had them all to ourselves. Peter Pan told Mary that our DD was the baby that he and the Lost Boys had asked Father Christmas for. Mary was telling him not to be silly (in her best governess voice) and that the baby belonged to us. Then, Father Christmas came out and Peter called him over. "See Father Christmas! Here's our baby!" Both Father Christmas and Mary Poppins eventually convinced Peter Pan that our DD was, in fact, our daughter and not his . It was by far the best character interaction I have ever had and it happened the busiest week of the year.

Bottom line, don't worry. you'll have a great time!

 

[BuzzMe]

We were at Disney Christmas Day through New Year's day 2000 and 2001. Y2k weather was pretty cold. We thought it couldn't possibly be colder this past year but it was- freezing at night. We were bundled up in winter coats, hats and gloves. Be sure to bring these with you! We had a great time though. If you get to the parks very early(for the most part they let everyone in early, even if not staying on site) and take advantage of Fast Pass you will be able to enjoy the parks. It is very festive and beautiful this time of year. Go and have a wonderful time!

 

[King Triton]

Christmas with Disney is very, very special. If WDW is having the Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, then be sure do that. You'll get to meet all the princeses by the castle and you'll see it snow on Main Street. During the fireworks, you'll see Rudolph come flying out of the castle. Here's a tip: Get on the monorail and check out the lobby at the Grand Floridian Hotel at night. They go all out to celebrate Christmas. It's really worth it.

Have fun!

King Triton

 

[lisapooh]

Well if you are so am I. Our family loves Christmas at Disney. We usually go right after finals and stay about a week to 10 days. Yes it is crowded after the 24th. Just don't do MK on Christmas Day and you will be fine.

 

[lookingforward]

I did it! I booked the GF for Christmas. Your replies have given me the encouragment to do it. Now I am planning our dining and dinner show schedule. We are doing the grand plan and I know that I can already book dinner shows. Does anyone have any suggestions? Also, my daughter's 3rd birthday will take place while we are there. I thought breakfast at Cinderella's castle would be great, does anyone know if they help celebrate birthdays there? Are reservations hard to come by? The grand plan staff does not contact us until 30 to 45 days ahead and I know that all the good times, resservations etc. will be gone by then. Does anyone know if they have things on hold for their customers? I just want to say that I appreciate everyones kindness and help. This board is amazing.