I think a lot of people are using vacation time to see family at holidays especially. I was "lucky" and got to see my family this Summer after not seeing them for 2 years, but I know a lot of people who will be soaking up family time Thanksgiving and Christmas rather than taking vacations...I think it is interesting that for the new Very Merriest After Hours party, every single date remains available and not sold out. Either Disney increased the crowds allowed for Very Merriest (but then is it really an After Hours party?) - or people aren't attending.