Question about blackout dates in October

[Paradise18]

DH and I are travelling to WDW for the F&W Festival in October. We have visited previously, usually in August. The dates we will be there are blacked out for the free dining discount and I read on another thread that the time we will be there (Oct 11-16) historically is blacked out for discounts. Can anyone tell me why this timeframe is blacked out? My concern is not that we won't get a discount, rather what takes place at WDW at that particular time that Disney doesn't need to offer a discount to fill rooms? Are we going to see large crowds, an abundance of tour groups or is there an event taking place during that time? TIA.

 

[maryj11]

This is what I'm wondering and have been told a lot of children are out for fall break ?? Last year I can understand why it was blacked out because the Garnter Symposium group was there during that week but this year they arrive on the 21st I think. So far as I can see by checking reservations for resorts and restaurants the week of the 14th has plenty open. I know the 8th is Columbus day and I'm not sure if that brings a lot of people in or not. I wouldnt think so

 

[kifuller4]

Most of our local schools are out for 2 weeks in October. I'm pretty sure they are out from Oct 9 until the 22nd. Plus lots of schools are out for Columbus day.

 

[VeeHam]

I too find it strange they have so much of October blacked out yet there are lots of room availability and ressies left. Still have my fingers crossed for a room discount.

 

[kaguilbeau]

Our dates are blacked out (10/16-10/19). Our schools have fall break the week of 10/15.

I noticed mousesavers.com announced Hilton Downtown Disney has reduced rates. I went to the link to check and received the message "I'm sorry. Your dates do not qualify for this rate". Sure 'nuff, they are blacked out.

My question is this: Do you still think crowds will be relatively low? I'm worried I'll regret going during this timeframe.

 

[Missyrose]

Our dates are blacked out (10/16-10/19). Our schools have fall break the week of 10/15.

I noticed mousesavers.com announced Hilton Downtown Disney has reduced rates. I went to the link to check and received the message "I'm sorry. Your dates do not qualify for this rate". Sure 'nuff, they are blacked out.

My question is this: Do you still think crowds will be relatively low? I'm worried I'll regret going during this timeframe.

It won't be as crowded as typical holiday weeks or the summer, but October is no longer the ghost town (crowd-wise) that it once was. Between fall breaks, Food and Wine Festival and MNSSHP, plenty of people target October for Disney trips now. Have a plan, get to the parks at rope drop and do the headliners early. It's a great time of year to be at Disney!