Last week of September vs. first week of October?

[LadyRayado]

Trying to figure out if there is a big different between these weeks. Our potential dates are Sept. 24-28 or Oct 1-5 (both Thu-Mon). We're hoping for MNSSHP on the 27th or 4th.

From the early prelim crowd calendars out right now, it looks like October will be slightly busier. My biggest fear is attending F&W opening day, the 25th. However, we would definitely RD EPCOT and be out of the park by 2-3pm at the latest (traveling with two toddlers). Flights and hotel costs are the same.

I'm guessing overall the crowd and weather differences are minimal...? Any thoughts one way or other other? TIA!

 

[LSUfan4444]

6 one way, half dozen the other

 

[LadyRayado]

I thought so too, thanks!

 

[minniemous]

They seem fairly similar to me but I personally would go for the second week trying to achieve a better chance at more moderate temperatures. I do not like it too hot.

 

[Wood Nymph]

Trying to figure out if there is a big different between these weeks. Our potential dates are Sept. 24-28 or Oct 1-5 (both Thu-Mon). We're hoping for MNSSHP on the 27th or 4th.

If you are hoping to get free dining then you are better off choosing the Sept dates.

 

[LadyRayado]

They seem fairly similar to me but I personally would go for the second week trying to achieve a better chance at more moderate temperatures. I do not like it too hot.

If you are hoping to get free dining then you are better off choosing the Sept dates.

Both excellent points. Hmmmm. Who would have thought it'd be this hard to pick a week lol. Thanks!

 

[minniemous]

Oh well, I guess I forgot that sometimes there is a break in that free dining offer. I would go with the free dining offer if that becomes an option. You will save a great deal with that. We go in late October and Early November and definitely go for the free dining. There might be free dining for both periods though...especially given you only need to arrive on a day that free dining is offered and it will extend into a non-free dining period.

 

[utlegaleagle]

Our family regularly travels to WDW during the time period you are asking about. Not a big difference in weather, but there is a difference in crowd levels. That last week in September is much better, as you start seeing a great influx of families with school-age kids in the first week of October as fall breaks start kicking in. You also have the effect of the Columbus Day holiday weekend, which is usually the busiest weekend in the Labor Day to Thanksgiving Day window.

 

[ash-n-brensmom]

We will be down there from Oct 2-9. We will be leaving as Columbus Day (here in Canada, Thanksgiving) crowds start to roll in. I think either week will be good. Good luck with your choice!

 

[alvernon90]

The October week (the week right before Columbus Day) is a big week for schools that have a fall break, all around the country. That alone indicates that your earlier week is likely to have lower overall crowds (though Epcot will be an issue no matter what).

If I had your choice, I'd pick your earlier week. However, I can only go when school is out, so we are going during your later week. We expect crowds, but we will be prepared.