Epcot help Dec 1st

[smelton521]

This is our 2nd trip ever to WDW and in 2014 we only went to Epcot for a few hours to do Soarin', Nemo and Turtle Talk with Crush, so I need some advice please. Kids are ages 12 (girl), 11 (boy), and 6 (girl). We are renting a DVC studio at Poly.

Epcot is open from 12pm-8pm on Tuesday, Dec 1, which is our only Epcot day. This is my youngest's first trip to Disney and she is obsessed with Frozen, so the Frozen ride is top priority and I know the line can get pretty long. Here are my questions:

1) What time should we arrive at Epcot before park opening? I have seen reports of CMs letting people into the parks early if they are there early. Has this been the case at Epcot or only MK and HS?
2) If I book breakfast at Topolino's that morning, what time should I make our reservation to be able to take the Skyliner and arrive at Epcot at a good time before park opening?
3) Is International Festival of the Holidays going on during the week? If so, what are some favorite things for kids to see/do/eat/drink? We will most likely never take another Christmas trip so I'd like them to experience this to the fullest.

If anyone wants to plan out our Epcot day for me, please do!

 

[holden]

I'd arrive around 11am. I don't know if they are letting people in early, but if they are you'll be there.

Not sure how long the skyliner takes. Maybe do a search of people's experiences with it?

I'm sure any holiday things will be scaled back this year (no Candlelight Processional, etc.). We won't find out for sure until the holiday season arrives.

 

[dachsie]

One of the things that they do at the Festival is a cookie stroll. You get different Christmas cookies from each booth. Also there is a scavenger hunt that you can purchase for $6.99 and when you complete it you get a prize. The only question is, will they be doing them this year.

ETA: Oh haha - I just noticed I am arriving a day before you are.

 

[Katmat75]

We are there at the same time!

 

[DanSchwartz]

Epcot started experimenting with a new fireworks and laser show yesterday. Sounds like it will finally be a top notch nighttime show. It may be worth checking out.