Have you been to WL, or VWL? The tree in the lobby of the WL is large, stunning and decorated just to fit the theme, the Pacific NW. The VWL has another gorgeous tree in it's lobby.
I've never been between Christmas and NY, but before Christmas there is a schedule of local performers, like bell choirs that perform in the WL lobby. This schedule wasn't just given with our check-in things, I had to ask. So, ask at check-in.
I like to take boats, take a boat to the Contemporary, look at it's decorations then take the monorail to the Poly if you like, but really go to the GF! The gingerbread house and tree there is amazing. Disney Photo pass people were there to take pictures. I didn't notice any at WL, but that could just be something I overlooked.
The villa's main floor has lots of comfy sofas, a gathering room called The Iron Spike Room that has memoribilia of Walt's model trains, and there are tables that have built in games, like checkers. VWL is laid back, but it doesn't feel like Jimmy Buffet, like OKW does. The WL's lobby is bustling with activity, there's even a spring with a bridge to cross over, and wonderful carvings of creatures, there are some critters in VWL's lobby as well.
Bobbi
