? day after Thanksgving

[kc26]

Hi,
I am planning on arriving at WDW the day after Thanksgiving and staying until Dec. 4. Was anyone there this past year during this time b/c I was wondering about the crowds. We normally go during Jersey Week but I want to try a different time and see all the X-mas decorations. Also does anyone know if there will be a MVMCP during this time and also the candlelight processional. Thanks for your responses.
Kerry

 

[stinkerbelle]

I know that week is generally pretty crowded. The second week in December is usually pretty quiet though (we've been twice during that week - low crowds, good weather AND the start of a value season) And yes, everything is geared up for christmas by that time!

 

[Terk-1]

My last 2 trips were arriving the day after Thanksgiving, so I think I can help you here. Be forwarned that the parks (especially Magic Kingdom) are pretty crowded that weekend, but thin out by Monday. I found the crowds to be light until the following weekend at the Magic Kingdom. They were filming the Christmas Day parade that is shown on ABC and that park was packed both Saturday & Sunday. The Magic Kingdom closed on most days between 6-7pm (6pm on MVMCP nights), but was open until 10pm on Saturday. I will locate the park hours from 2003 and e-mail them to you.

The Candlelight Processional begins the day after Thanksgiving. I did this on my recent trip and it was a great way to start my vacation. I would strongly recommend doing one of the dinner packages. Here is the link to Deb Wills site that talks all about it, as well as times and the dinner packages.http://allearsnet.com/tp/h_cpfaq.htm I would also recommend doing the 6:45pm to really get the effect of the lights, candles, etc. I did the 5pm one and found it a little too light outside to enjoy that part. Also, there is a separate line for packages. To get a great seat, plan on arriving at least 45 minutes prior to the start of your show. Also, if there is any kind of hint of rain, make sure to get a seat under the awning. I listened to a cm who told me the best seat was further back and it rained 3/4 of the way through the performance. Also, I really enjoy the Rose & Crown and this would be a great dinner package location. Make sure when you check-in (do it early) that you want a patio table and are willing to wait a little while for one. You won't be sorry. You'll have a great meal, then sit back, and enjoy your dessert at the comfort of your table while watching an unobstructed view of Illuminations.

MVMCP usually starts the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Here is the link for that information. http://allearsnet.com/tp/hol_mk.htm If I had to choose between the 2, I would do the CP, hands down. You can view MVMCP fireworks from the beach of the Polynesian or from the Contemporary.

 

[MJames41]

The weekend after Thanksgiving will be crowded, but like Terk said, they thin out by Monday. When we went in 2000, I'll never forget the Wednesday after Thanksgiving when we walked right on to Tower of Terror. We didn't even have to wait for the elevator to take us there.