Disney at Christmastime

[Pixieflip]

We did the DVC Merry Member Mixer and thought it was fun since we live so far away we never get to attend any of the Member events. There were games and crafts for the kids, a DJ who was very funny, characters with short lines and lots of fun DVC merchandise, some of which I had never seen before. Might have had punch and cookies, too. Oh, and we all received a small gift as we left. Do you want to know? I guess I'll just tell you, they were ornaments and they gave one to each of us, even the kids. We take them out every year and remember our trip as we decorate the tree. Maybe I'm easily amused, but I thought it was fun! Got some great photos, too, especially of my daughter doing the hula hoop with Pluto!

 

[thepops]

have they announced when the merry mixer dates are or are they the same time every year?

 

[Mickey Moose]

We are heading down the week between Christmas and New years. Thanks to all those posting ideas, I am making notes!

 

[dlander]

We are also heading to Disney World for our first Christmas trip there! We have an annual tradition of spending the holidays at Disneyland (the last 16 years!). This is a big change for us but we love Disney World and really hope it will be Magical

 

[domiii]

My family and I are planning our next visit for December 2010. This thread is getting me pumped up. I can't wait.

We are too, see you there!! Great thread. We plan to go to all the resorts as well!

 

[ccigliano]

We are also heading to Disney World for our first Christmas trip there! We have an annual tradition of spending the holidays at Disneyland (the last 16 years!). This is a big change for us but we love Disney World and really hope it will be Magical

As is typical with Disney, I'm sure it will exceed your expectations.

 

[bobbiwoz]

Walk around and admire all of the Boardwalk resorts Christmas Decorations, including the S/D. The BW's lobby is just amazing!

Don't miss the VWL's lobby and the lobby at BCV...they have beatiful trees as well.

I agree that if you have the time, go to FW and see how the RV people decorate. We always go for a bike ride and even during the day many have the lights on and blow-up snowglobes working.

Bobbi

 

[msd1962]

Ok I am going to be a minority here. We went last Christmas, second week of December. Yes the lobbies at the resorts were very nicely decorated, BUT for the most part the outsides were just plain, with a weath here and there.

We did the osborn lights, at the Studios. That was great, but that was it at, no other decoration at the Studios.

Epcot had some in the entrance to world showcase, but the lands were not decorated, the Candle Light processional was great.

Magic Kingdom, I think we saw one tree, but mainstreet was not decorated, The party was good, but had to pay for that. In years past they changed country bear into a christmas show, not last year.

We were very disappointed with the lack of decorations, our local malls decorate more than we saw at Disney last year, maybe we are spoiled and were epecting to much from what we have read about holiday decorations at WDW.

I understand about trying to not upset some by decorating alot, but have we gotten so concerned by what others are thinking to ruin it for those of us who do like it?

 

[bobbiwoz]

Also, look for a schedule of singing and local instrumental groups entertaining both at the resorts and at DTD. I'm not sure when that begins, but we've spent some very pleasant times sitting and listening to groups.

Bobbi

 

[granmanh603]

Ok I am going to be a minority here. We went last Christmas, second week of December. Yes the lobbies at the resorts were very nicely decorated, BUT for the most part the outsides were just plain, with a weath here and there.

We did the osborn lights, at the Studios. That was great, but that was it at, no other decoration at the Studios.

Epcot had some in the entrance to world showcase, but the lands were not decorated, the Candle Light processional was great.

Magic Kingdom, I think we saw one tree, but mainstreet was not decorated, The party was good, but had to pay for that. In years past they changed country bear into a christmas show, not last year.

We were very disappointed with the lack of decorations, our local malls decorate more than we saw at Disney last year, maybe we are spoiled and were epecting to much from what we have read about holiday decorations at WDW.

I understand about trying to not upset some by decorating alot, but have we gotten so concerned by what others are thinking to ruin it for those of us who do like it?

I was at Disney last year in early Nov and saw more decorations than you mentioned at HS and MK. There was a huge tree out front of every park decorated differently and decorations on each light pole and this was before I left Nov 5. Also 2 years ago in early Nov when I was there they had a small preview of Osborne lights , it was after an afternoon of huge rainstorm and 1/2 the lights were not lit and it was still breathtaking. I guess to each there own.
I am going in Dec this year for the first time and I sure hope there are lots more things up. I am very excited.

 

[thepops]

Sounds like quite a few of us "newbies" to the Christmas magic at Disney will be there this year.

 

[thelionqueen]

Sounds like quite a few of us "newbies" to the Christmas magic at Disney will be there this year.

This will be our first Christmas @ WDW too. I've gone to every MNSSHP for 8 years and switching up this year...hope its a good decision!!

 

[thepops]

I'm getting a strong feeling it's going to be grand!

 

[zalansky]

We go every year for a long weekend before Xmas to get us in the spirit...I always think the parks have lots of decorations, same goes for the resorts. As a matter of fact, we always bring the camera and the kids holiday outfits and do our Christmas card photo shoot at whatever resort we are staying at!
As many have mentioned, the Candlelight Processional is not to be missed. We always book the dinner package because its tradition now - we eat at Le Cellier - have a great steak and wine and then head to the show. Even the kids love it and they are 3 & 6, but they've been going since the first one was born. Heck, we love it so much I bought the CD of the show and we play it in the car, my brainwashed kids even ask for it!!! Definitely walk around WS and see the different santas from different countries. So much fun. Xmas music is playing everywhere you go around Disney, I can't imagine not getting in the spirit.

As for Osborne lights, thats never wow-ed us. Its always crazy busy, impossible to walk down the street without getting stepped on. To be fair, that was back in the heavy stroller days and I still wouldn't attempt it because my youngest still uses one.

We always go to DTD and hit the Xmas store and get a special ornament - but I am going to have to look into the Merry Mixer this year and hope for one of those. But going to the Xmas store makes it feel so Xmas-y!

As you can see I love Disney at Christmas, its my favorite time of year there, even beats out swimming season for me. We went last year for Halloween and Christmas wins hands down. No comparison. But then again, it all boils down to personal preference.

Have fun planning and enjoy the magic of the season at WDW!

Edited to add: If you do decide to go over to Fort Wilderness to scope out the decor there (which is crazy fun might I add) I would defintely stay for Chip & Dale's campfire sing a long. This is something they do year round, and its free - but at Xmas they sing - what else? Xmas tunes! Its a blast! Bring marhmallows and makes smores. Relive your youth. SO MUCH FUN!

 

[thelionqueen]

We decided to give up MNSSHP this year for Christmas, and I'm really looking forward to it!! We had originally booked BLT 1 BR MK view for the entire trip (held for almost an hour on 1st day to get it). On a whim, when contacting MS for another issue, I just happened to ask if VWL was available. Since this seems to be one of the most suggested resorts to stay at @ Christmas, I figured it wouldn't be. Much to my surprise, it was available for the entire week

So, in that exact moment, when I was prepared to switch, I took it. I'm sure the MS CM that I was talking to helped with that decision; she seemed to be shocked that any day at all, let alone the entire week (12/17-12/24) was available. So, I gave up that week at BLT (to the waitlister who scooped that up, you're welcome ) and switched to VWL. I've always thought the resort was beautiful, but since I'm from CO, it's never been on the top of my list until now. From what I hear it's breathtaking and we're excited to try it!!

I love all the ideas posted on here, especially visiting the campground and looking at the RV lights; that will be a blast.

One question; will there be any swimming/water park opportunities during this time, or will it be too cold? Thanks for any info!!

 

[decarop]

We've planned a trip for the week of 12/7. Seems like it will be pretty busy during this week. Not many selections available. Tried for a 2 bedroom at SSR and had to take a 1 BR with a lockout room.
Best time of year at WDW in my opinion.
DW loves it and so do I.
Absolutely beautiful to be a part of.

Have a great time.
We will

 

[tmgandolph]

We took the Disney Yuletide Fantasy tour. It was a great tour and really packed in a lot of site seeing and behind the scenes info in such a short time. That said we did have to return later to revisit some hotels because there was just too much to take in during the brief stops.

 

[minniecarousel]

Suscribing to this thread. We're going at Christmastime for the first time and really looking forward to it! Thanks for all the ideas.