Disney/Mardi Gras thoughts?

[jaman12]

It's alway mentioned that Mardi Gras is a busier time at WDW because half of the state of Louisiana flock there to escape Mardi Gras celebrations.

But just how much busier is it when Mardi Gras happens "by itself"?

We went in 2012 when Mardi Gras coincided with President's week. We arrived the Thursday before and actually left to head home on Mardi Gras day. The parks got busier as the days went on with Monday being the worst day. That was also President's day itself. We were still able to do plenty of attractions and really didn't feel like we missed much. Sure, we didn't do everything but you can't do that on a low crowd day. My only complaint was that we didn't see much of Epcot. That's what we did on Monday when the crowds were at it's worst. But to see both the Future World and Showcase it seems like 2 days is needed anyway. We didn't allow that so I don't fault the crowds for that.

So I am curious of those who have been at WDW during Mardi Gras...when Mardi Gras was the only holiday going on. And also from maybe the people that have been there for Mardi Gras when it coincides with President's week? How do the crowds compare between those two scenarios. If you have been during both examples, I would love to hear.

I am hoping that Mardi Gras won't be as bad this year as it was in 2012 (and 2010 from what I saw on another site) when Mardi Gras and President's week landed together. It will only be Mardi Gras in March.

I suppose one can wish!! I know we will have a great time regardless. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best!

 

[SnowWhite607]

I have been twice previously when MG was "by itself" and it was not bad at all. Of course, I mostly go in the summer so thats what I have to compare it to. But on the up side, weather is nicer, lines seem to be shorter, etc. And as much as I am DYING to plan a trip for next MG, I know it is also Presidents Week so I dont dare. Guess I will have to wait till 2016 for my next trip I personally love my MG trips. I know about 8 people from my town who are going. You will see a lot of Saints and LSU shirts and maybe even see some people from home.

Not as crowded as summer though.

 

[Bayoumama]

We went at MG in 2011 and it was "by itself". It wasn't bad but just as SnowWhite607 said we had only been in summer too. Less crowds than summer time but we could navigate. Worst time was mid-day just as in any other time of year. We went at rope drop and used fast passes and definately saw everything we wanted !!!
It was foggy and muggy some mornings which meant jackets during morning and carrying them the rest of the day. That was aggravating but no biggie. Kids got to swim but we were offsite and pools I don't think were heated and it was a bit cold for that. Otherwise a good time to go I think.
And Yes Saints and LSU all over the place. Just like Home !!! LOL

 

[tinkerbellybutton]

We have been a few times for Mardi Gras, or as we like to call it Mickey Gras! I would say in our experience it's almost as crowded as our summer trips. We were in Disney the week of Mardi Gras and the week of Thanksgiving last year (2013) and we felt Mardi Gras week actually seemed busier than Thanksgiving week. My SIL and her family were with us on both trips and they all agreed that MG seemed busier.