Slow Season??

[tbthomps]

So when is the best time of year to go to DL for the least amount of people???

 

[Lollipop's Mom]

My rule of thumb is when the kids are in school, the parks are more empty. Sept/Oct/Nov/Early Dec/Jan/Feb - avoid holidays and spring break.

 

[sters]

October and November are not the least crowded months anymore because of so many promotions that Disney runs... the Food and Wine Festival, Mickey's Not so Scary Halloween Party. The first week in November much of New Jersey is there, along with Super Soap Weekend that attracts a bigger-than-you-might-expect crowd. Just from reading these boards over the last couple of years, I think the first couple of weeks in December, January except for MLK week, FEbruray except for Presidents Week and early March are probably your best bets for the least amount of crowds.

 

[iceskatejen]

October and November are not the least crowded months anymore because of so many promotions that Disney runs... the Food and Wine Festival, Mickey's Not so Scary Halloween Party. The first week in November much of New Jersey is there, along with Super Soap Weekend that attracts a bigger-than-you-might-expect crowd. Just from reading these boards over the last couple of years, I think the first couple of weeks in December, January except for MLK week, FEbruray except for Presidents Week and early March are probably your best bets for the least amount of crowds.

This is the DL board--no F&W Fest, Halloween party, or Super Soap at DL, so Oct/Nov are indeed slow season.

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

I think September/October are great times to go. The weather is still warm. January/February are typically our rainy season, so there is always the chance that your vacation may have rainy days.

I also recommend November, though it may be cooler than Sep/Oct because Christmas decorations are up and DLR is so nice at this time.

 

[disney-super-mom]

In response to Mary Jo's reply - ditto - I agree with your reply 100%.

 

[Blackunicorn]

I love to go in late Sept/early October. Not very crowded, and we usually catch the opening of Haunted Mansion Holiday.

 

[WDWPsychoALice]

end of October-Middle of November has always been my favorite!

 

[Amy&Dan]

I agree with the above posters regarding the fall months. Also, we had a wonderful time last February. We had perfect weather and no crowds. I think this February however, there will be a lot of rides down for refurbishment in preparation for the 50th.

 

[WDWPsychoALice]

LOL I was there for valentines day this year! LOL Blisters on my feet and all..teaches me not to wear my Tevas!

 

[poohj80]

How is early to mid May? I was thinking schools don't get out until June in CA...is this still accurate?

Thanks!
PJ

 

[WDWPsychoALice]

This May? umm the 50th anniversary stats on the 5th..it too will be jam packed...sorry!

 

[poohj80]

I was thinking many might wait for the official kickoff in July. Am I being too optimistic?

 

[iceskatejen]

May 5th is the official kick-off. July 17th is just the actual birthday.

 

[Amy&Dan]

We were there from April 30-May 6 2004. It was the most crowded visit we every experienced, (even more so than when we went the middle of June another time). This was when they were merely "announcing" the 50th plans and it was a zoo that day. It was also when TOT officially opened so that probably added to the crowds. That said, I would imagine this May will be REALLY crowded!

 

[marvel]

Is there really no difference between sept to nov in terms of crowds? I am planning a trip for that period and want to really try and book the right time.

 

[amwhitaker]

I was just there Nov. 22 - 24th and it was great, especially at California Adventure. There was no one there! One of the CM's said it hasn't been that slow since 9-11. We walked on everything! DL had no more than 20 minute waits for the bigger rides. The only drawback was it was freezing! It had gone down to 24 at night. During the day we were able to not wear coats for a few hours, but when the sun went down it was cold!