Need December info....

[dsanner106]

I was hoping someone who had been In DL in December could share some info with me. We will be making our first visit D 16-23, hoping to spend the early days in the park before the crowds get too bad. When will the crowds really hit? Anything we must do during this christmas time visit? Are there any ticket deals usually offered during this time?? Wondering if I should buy my tickets now, or wait until it gets closer. I don't know when we will ever make the 2000 + mile trip again, so what restaurants are "must do's"? Any suggestions at all are welcome.

Thanks
Drew

 

[kittysmommy]

This is my absolute, favorite time to go to DL! It is absolutely beautiful and always gets us in the Christmas spirit.

Since we usually go around weekends (no time off for DH), we have found around the second week to be a good time. The first weekend is usually when the candlelight processional is, and we don't like the crowds then. However, it is usually pretty crowded on the weekends, but the week days are fantastic. It seems to start getting crowded when kids start get out of school, so a few days before Christmas.

One thing you should prepare for is the weather. We are used to the cold, but it is generally chllier than I expect it to be in CA. Also, it seems we always get rained on and have foggy mornings. Even with all of this, I think it is a fantastic time to go.

 

[Sleeping Jedi Beauty]

My family has gone down to DL for Christmas 4 times. Twice the week before and twice the week after. The crowds are worse the week after. While busy the week before, they haven't been too bad. As for what's a must see, Haunted Mansion Holiday is creative, especially if you like Nightmare Before Christmas. Also, be sure to watch the fireworks near the castle or by Storybook Land on the way to Small World. The view is more spectacular in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, especially with Remember using the castle for some of the effects. Small World is rethemed for Christmas and the entire park is decked out in tinsel and wreaths. The characters wear Chrismas themed attire, and you can visit Santa Goofy in ToonTown if you want. A Christmas Fantasy is the holiday parade featuring Disney characters in assorted winter and Christmas scenes. It's quite fun. Take note though. Cinderella's stepsisters have been known to flirt with men watching the parade.

 

[CalGal]

I have often gone the week before Christmans and just love it. DL is so lovely and especially magical at this time of year. It gets crowded as soon as the schools let out for Christmas break (probably 12/15 this year), and generally get more and more crowded as you get closer to Christmas. I've always heard it is even more crowded after Christmas, so I've avoided that week.

If you are thinking of staying onsight, I would wait --- but not too long. Last year, Disney offered a 4th night free at any of the Disney hotels. The promo package and the off-season rates were available for arrivals up to the 18th or so. I believe the promo packages became available mid summer; I think we booked around late August, and the promotional rates were going fast. If you can book through AAA, that is another good option if you are staying on-sight. They offer the same promotions that Disney offers (since they book through Disney travel), plus they provide the enhanced FP if you stay onsight -- a great perk during busy periods.

I absolutely love Haunted Mansion Holiday, but there were rumors last year that it might be the last year. I think Disney has to purchase rights from Tim Burton every year. Small World is spectacular at the holidays, and Storybook canals is very cute.

There are now many good restaurants at the DLR worth trying. Blue Bayou is unique, and the best restaurant inside of DL. DTD, DCA, and the hotels all have nice places. Keep reading the boards for recommendations.