Fall/Winter at DL?

[HeatherBelle614]

Ok, so our original plans to surprise my parents for next April aren't looking so great. I'm going to go ahead and start planning for the fall/winter instead. I'd rather push things back then skip out on certain meals/outings at DLR because we're worried about money.

Here's my question - which do you all prefer: fall or winter? What are your personal advantages/disadvantages for picking one over the other?

I'll preface this by saying I love NMBC and wouldn't mind seeing that HM; this is our first trip to DL, but I can always see the original another time. Also, I'm one of those crazy IASW fanatics, so I'd have to see that while we're there; I think it's closed during parts of the fall, right?

What about show schedules, crowds, etc? Let me know what you all think! (As a reminder, this will be our first DLR trip and a complete surprise to my 'rents.)

 

[skoocher]

IMO, fall/Christmas time at DL is the most amazing. Yes, the crowds are somewhat busy once the kids get out of school. BUT, the park is so wonderful with all the decorations and the Christmas fireworks show. We went just after Thanksgiving two years ago, and the first day we were able to walk on most rides most of the day. The 2nd day we were there happened to be the day of the Candlelight show, and the park was crazy busy that day. In fact, I think in my 30 or so times at DL, that was the most busy ever. We just made the best of it and still had a terrific time.

 

[Krissy Marissy]

Disneyland is never more magical than at christmas time. I love disneyland but it feels more special to me at that time. Crowds are crowds and they will be there year round...just something you learn how to deal with. But early dec should be okay. Hope your trip works out for you!

 

[DW2DH&DS]

Ok, so our original plans to surprise my parents for next April aren't looking so great. I'm going to go ahead and start planning for the fall/winter instead. I'd rather push things back then skip out on certain meals/outings at DLR because we're worried about money.

Here's my question - which do you all prefer: fall or winter? What are your personal advantages/disadvantages for picking one over the other?

I'll preface this by saying I love NMBC and wouldn't mind seeing that HM; this is our first trip to DL, but I can always see the original another time. Also, I'm one of those crazy IASW fanatics, so I'd have to see that while we're there; I think it's closed during parts of the fall, right?

What about show schedules, crowds, etc? Let me know what you all think! (As a reminder, this will be our first DLR trip and a complete surprise to my 'rents.)

If you are planning for fall/winter, i would suggest the first week of december. You can USUALLY walk onto most rides and at most wait is 20 minutes for the popular rides. this is speaking from 4 years experience. weekdays are of course better.

 

[JaneJetson]

I prefer winter. fall can be a bit too warm still. The week after Thanksgiving is usually good. Most things are open. Christmas decorations are up. The weather is nice. Crowds are lower. You do have to look out for cast member parties though. And the candlelight processional can bring more crowds too.

 

[disneyL0VE]

IMO, I LOVE DL in the winter The park is even more magical than it usually is during this time because of Christmas & New Years The weather isn't that cold for you to wear a winter jacket, a sweatshirt & longsleeves will do you good The crowds are okay, it's still a little busy, but not much comparing to the summer ;-)

My family & I went last January for my birthday, the first weekend of the month is the LAST weekend that the holiday decorations are up. That was a great time to go because there wasn't a whole lot of people, a good amount, but nothing to worry about

 

[dizneekrazee]

I love both, and really, you cant go wrong either way. The holidays at the resort are beautiful. Everything is perfect. We try to make at least 2 trips per year (just 1 this year though), and have decided that one of those must be during October. (We love Halloween, and I need warm weather). We will be squeezing in an occasional Nov/Dec trip once every 2-3 years or so though.

Whatever you decide, you will not be disappointed!!

 

[disney4cam]

Another vote for the week after Thanksgiving. We go every year at that time and it's awesome. Nice weather (usually), light crowds, great Christmas decorations.

I'll be bummed when dd starts middle school and I won't be able to take her out for a week!