MVMCP -16th Dec - crowds and strategies?

[Cinderella]

Have heard good and bad reviews on crowds at MVMCP. We are there 7th thru 10th Dec, then off to cruise and back again 15th to 21st Dec.

We were going to do the extra magical hours at night but they are on a Wednesday and we won't be there on a Wednesday - except our first night and we couldn't cope with the time difference! Also I have no idea how the crowds are on EMH nights, as last time i visited it was just EE mornings.

I am trying to fit the party in with what I have planned and Friday 16th is best for us. Would it be terribly busy this close to Christmas and would 8th or 9th be better crowdwise, or is it pot luck. I really want to do MK at night as park hours are short, but I have an AP - so don't want to fork out the extra cash if the parks are going to be totally crowded.

On MVMCP nights is it best to watch the first parade and do rides at time of second parade, or vice versa? Thanks

 

[domestic goddess]

Typically the closer to Christmas the more crowded the MVMCP gets, especially on weekend nights as more locals come then. You may be better off before the cruise. It is also better to watch the second parade, in our experience, as more people with children tend to leave after the first parade. It is a fun party and we have felt it was worth the extra money. The atmosphere is nice and the extras(cookies and hot cocoa, pictures, parade, shows) are a great way to get in the holiday spirit.

Have a wonderful time!