Lesser of Two Evils -- July 2-9 or July 6-13?

[SanDiegoDayTripper]

Based on a number of factors, my 16-year-old daughter and I have a window next summer to visit WDW, and our only choice is to go somewhere in the span of July 1-14.

I know all the cons of visiting at that time, but it really can't be helped. I currently have a reservation booked for POR from July 2-9.

That all being said, is there any way to make this a little less painful? I know we should intelligently avoid 4th of July in WDW; I know its historically been the MOST CROWDED day of the year, but in that case, do the parks remain open until like 2 a.m.? Is there a really killer fireworks show? Anything else especially cool about Independence Day at the World? I've thought about making the 4th our resort/pool/sleep all hours day.

Or should I move the reservation to something like July 6-13? Would that be even marginally better as far as crowds?

Thanks!

 

[Minniesgal]

Having been on all those dates and been through the 4th July twice I don't ink there is much difference. It used to be a bit quieter end of June until just before the 4th but arriving in the 2nd is close enough to the 4th to be catching the crowds arriving for the 4th. I honestly don't think you will notice much difference between the two weeks

 

[SanDiegoDayTripper]

Thanks, Minniesgal!

Having been there, can you comment on whether the parks have extra late hours? Special fireworks or activities for the 4th?

Thank you!

 

[MAGICFOR2]

We went right after the 4th last year and the crowds were surprisingly low. We did use Touring Plans to choose which parks to go to - it was dead on. We even had walk ons for some rides.

 

[SanDiegoDayTripper]

Oh, I'm all about touring plans and crowd strategies! With this trip just being the 16 y.o. and me, we are finally getting a chance to do WDW "my" way! Plans, FP+, ADRs, rope drop, mid-day siesta, dining plan, all making my little organizing heart glow!! Previous trips with my husband, who is an anti-planner, were great trips, but not efficient. But still amazing!

I will definitely be checking out all the touring plans and employing all the in-the-know strategies!

Thanks, MagicFor2!

 

[marshamims]

Yes, there are early hours and late hours, however, not every night at every park. Each park has different days of the week where they offer early or late hours. You can check the calendar for each park individually to see when that is.