December - Christmas

[Nana2Callie]

We are considering a short trip in December (first time during Christmas season) maybe 1st week of December. What is the best time of month to go? What is the basic info I need to know for planning? Will be staying off property and maybe 2-3 days at WDW?

 

[Selket]

That's a big question! We went the first week of December last year. It was fairly crowded and there were no resort discounts to be had on property. They had a Christmas "after hours" style party that was significantly more expensive than the old MVMCP. They may return the MVMCP this year since they're back to doing the MNSSHP - and the pricing is more in line with the old event. The weather was good for us - no rain and warm enough to wear shorts. YMMV on that as it can be colder than what we had.

As for park planning and planning rides - expect it to be busy. Epcot was busy with the Holiday festival food booths. Everything holiday related for Christmas was in full swing so you could do any of it you are interested in - maybe look at what they offered last year. If you go closer to Christmas I think it will be more busy - especially the week between Christmas and New Years. I'm not sure early to mid December will be as slow as it used to be. It's a great time to be there for all of the holiday stuff. Our flights were very cheap on SW but I spent overall more on that trip - almost 2x more - than I'd ever spent on a similar WDW trip just because of the room and ticket prices and no free dining.

 

[TheSouthernBelle]

We are considering a short trip in December (first time during Christmas season) maybe 1st week of December. What is the best time of month to go? What is the basic info I need to know for planning? Will be staying off property and maybe 2-3 days at WDW?

Million dollar question right there! LOL In normal times, the first week of December is crowded but not as bad as Thanksgiving and the week of Christmas. This past early December crowds were fairly normal IMO but it's so hard to predict what's going to happen with any travel this year until you're closer to your travel dates. If I'm going in December, earlier in the month is usually always lighter and of course, heavier as you get the holidays and later party dates. Keep an eye on park hours/party dates for your planning of going to MK and other parks as well. Keep tabs on the weather too. Usually it's pretty pleasant but it can be sporadic that time of year and usually cooler in the mornings/evenings.

 

[CynBeth]

I would allow more time at Disney to experience all 4 parks including the storytellers and Candlelight Processional at Epcot and the holiday party/after hours at MK. Also see the decorations at some deluxe resorts GF, WL, AKL, YC, and BC. And the Christmas Tree Stroll or Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs. Not sure if you are doing other area attractions but Sea World has great holiday shows on certain nights.