Disneyland for a teacher?

[Bossy22]

So, as the title says, I am a teacher. This truly limits when I can go to Disneyland to Summer (July, August), Christmas (Dec.23-Jan7) or a week at Easter time. I have now done Disneyland 3 times. Once just after I was married (we went in May 12 years ago), 2nd in August 2009 (my wife and I) and then this past August (my wife, I, our 2 year old daughter and my inlaws). We kind of have just assumed summer is the time we must go. After this last trip (it was awesome!) I am now thinking of a Christmas trip.
My wife is nervous as it would have to be around Christmas or new years and she thinks it would be way busier than the start of August. We probably would not go on Christmas day but just after. How are crowds end of December and start of January compared to start of August. Thanks fellow Dis'ers!!!

 

[Camonkeygirl]

If I had to choose, I would pick August. I went once the day after Christmas and itwas crazy. Parking lots were full by Noon, no wheelchairs at all (My Mom needed it) long lines....

Keep in mind that not only are there travelers on vacation, but you also have crowds coming in for the Rose Bowl - the parade and the bowl game.

Also, in the last couple of years there have been regular reports of Disneyland filling to capacity and closing the gates - sometimes even having people with a hand stamp wait - to get into the parks.

On the other hand, I love the holiday decorations, but for me, I will go earlier in the month, and avoid the time around Christmas and New Year's.

 

[longtimedisneylurker]

The week from Christmas to New Year's is the busiest week of the year at Disneyland. If you are trying to avoid huge crowds, that would not be the time to go. If you really wanted to see the Christmas decorations and experience the rides with the holiday overlays though, you aren't going to get that in August. It will still be very, very busy from Jan. 1 - Jan. 7, but it probably won't be as crazy busy as the previous week. If you're not all that into the holiday decorations, then with regard to crowds you are doing better to go in July or August.

 

[gilesmt]

We went twice now in august, the last week was very very calm and quiet, we have gone thanksgiving week, crowded but not bad, we went second week of Dec twice, crowded, but doable, we went in march first week okay, second and third week not doable, way to crowded. We went twice in June I think, first week of june was okay, and that was the week Nemo opened, another time the second or third week, that was much better than mid august but more crowded than end of august. Hope that gives you an idea.

 

[Malcon10t]

How are crowds end of December and start of January compared to start of August. Thanks fellow Dis'ers!!!

Well.... Since we do both, I can honestly say, Christmas is considerably worse. However, there is no heat, and people are happier!! I really enjoy going at Christmas.