Crowds in Early January? Help!

[Russell]

Hi Folks. Thinking about going Early January 2004 around the 3rd through the 8th. Does anyone have any idea about the crowds then? We went last early November. Any comparisons? Thank you for your advice oh great and wise Disney experts!

 

[Harambe]

We were there at that time in 2000. Right after the New Year, the crowds just dwindled down to nothing! The parks were still decorated for Christmas, very festive! Parks do close early, but weather was wonderful, didn't rain at all! We swam every day!

The Disney marathon is scheduled for January 12 weekend for 2004. Lots of folks go to that, but you'll probably be gone by then. We are arriving on January 14 and will be there over Martin Luther King weekend.

 

[Russell]

Wow! That was fast! thanks! I can do that time of year and the kids only miss two days of school. So I think I might go then. Low crowds sound wonderful! And still warm enough to swim? That sounds great too (though we never have time for it). I'm thinking Wilderness Lodge. Never stayed there but it sounds nice.
Thanks again!

 

[Simba's Mom]

I went that year, and I agree with everything said. But just be aware that the weather can vary sooo much. The following year I went January 2-6, and literally froze! One morning I went to AK and some of the attractions were closed til 11:00 or so because it was too cold for the animals. All around POR were these cute little signs where the flowers had been, talking about Jack Frost having paid a visit so the flowers had died. One poster here even left early because it was so cold. Then last year, the Enite on January 3 was so cold that although Splash Mtn is my favorite ride, it was even too cold for me to ride it. I watched out of curiosity and only about 1 in 10 logs that came down the drop had anyone in it.

 

[winniedapooh]

We have gone 3 times the first week of January and once in Oct. and once in Nov. I liked all 3 times but found January to be the least crowded of the 3. But in January there is very unpredictable weather as far as cool and warm temps., so be prepared. I say anytime is a great time to visit the mouse.....

Faith, trust, and pixiedust to you!

 

[G's mommy]

We have arrived on Jan 1st or 2nd the past three years running. Yes, the weather never fails to turn freezing for that week. This past January was alittle better, actually had days we could comfortably wear short sleeves. Arriving on the 3rd and staying till the 8th will be perfect. We have found that the crowds really clear out beginning on Saturday and Sunday right after New Years Day. By Monday, you will have the place to yourself! The hours shorten up after the weekend and some attractions go into rehab after the busy holiday season, but it's still a great time to go. There will be people swimming no matter what the temp, it amazes me how people, even kids can swim outdoors in 40 degree weather! I guess we Southerners have thin blood or something!

Have a great trip.

 

[sillyminny]

To sum it up: None ....

We always go in Jan. Just avoid Martin Luther King weekend, that's all.

It is cool but we are warm. A week is enough as it is too cool to hang around the pool or water parks. But we are there for the rides!

Have fun! Take finger mitts and head bands. We peel off layers as the day goes by. We are Canadian and have been there at the coldest record breaking days!

 

[Muffy]

We have visited WDW in Jan for so many years that I have lost count. It is a great time to visit and by the 3rd. the crowds will be gone. The weather can be unpredictable but if you plan for a little of everything in the weather department you should be fine. FYI, pack gloves as they cost a small fortune in the parks and you will probably need them some mornings!

 

[Harambe]

You mentioned avoiding MLK weekend - is it horrible? I was anticipating a crowd for Sat - Mon but figured we'd have no crowds the days before and after the weekend. Am I way off?

We are planning to celebrate our anniversary on the Saturday by going to Boma (we're at the AKL) and avoiding MK since I'm sure it will be the only time MK will be open at night and it will be jammed.

 

[kilarney]

The marathon weekend is starting to get crazy. It will be even worse next year because they have increased the number of entrants for the half marathon.

 

[sillyminny]

It won't be too bad, but we are used to very little crowds and my sister insisted on sat in MK! Yikes!

Monday should be ok if you are there early.