So... Christmas at WDW?

[MickeyMonstersMom]

My ex-husband moved to FL a few years ago and I usually take DD and DS down to see him in April and June/July, enjoying myself at WDW while the Dkids spend time with dad and stepmom. He told me a few days ago that he wants them to visit for Christmas next year - enough, in fact, to pay airfare for me to accompany them. He mentioned having all of us stay at WDW as a "destination holiday" for the family; while my knee-jerk response was a vehement "no thanks" to WDW over crowd issues, the idea has been growing on me (aided by today's Food Network special on Christmas at WDW!). We are locked into that week between Christmas and New Year's, as I'm a teacher and cannot take school days off. Ex has indicated that he may also buy AP's for the Dkids, so my only expenses would be my own room, pass, and food. It seems too good to pass up!

I thought others had asked this before, but searching the DIS hasn't gotten me anywhere, so... from those who have battled the crowds during the most-attended week of the year, would you do it again? Give me the good, the bad, and the ugly, please!

 

[Bojo]

We're on our way tonight! Check-in @ OKW on Christmas Day & check out on Friday. Looking forward to it. I know it will be wall to wall people and will just go with the flow!

 

[safetymom]

Going at Christmas is a wonderful time. If you just keep in mind there will be more people you will be fine. We did it quite a few times before we moved down here.

 

[mcreamer9]

We are heading out in the morning. We are about 90 minutes away. Yes, there are crowds. However, the magic of being there at christmas is incredible!!!! Have a happy holiday!

 

[ReggieB]

DH and I are trying to decide if we should take DS5 for Christmas next year. I know it will be crowded. I would just like to see a few opinions for and against. It does look magical though (even with the crowds!)

 

[luvsmickeymouse]

We love Disney for the holidays. Yes its crowded, but you just go with it. The decorations are the best. I like to visit all the hotels and see how they are decorated. New Years Eve is FUN! When we go to disney we don't rush all over the place, we enjoy ourselves. We go often so what you don't see in one trip, you see next time! Everytime we go to Disney we try a different time of year. I think Christmas time is my favorite, because that is the first time we took the kids down when they were small . It was so magical, i think I cried all the way home on the airplane. LOL! They were 5 and 2! They are now 18 and 15.

 

[bytheblood]

Does this mean there is a possibilty for reconciliation as he is wanting you guys to go as a family?


Did the Land/Sea package from Dec 19th - Dec 26th in 02. It was wonderful. Hope you guys have a wonderful time. I am sure you will.

 

[jwfla422]

If you can deal with the crowds go for it. Just keep in mind there will be very long lines at the counter service restaurants as well. Pack a lunch. I personally wouldn't go near WDW now. We just got back Wed. and the crowds really started coming in last weekend. I'm not a "crowd" person, but since I live in FL I have the luxury of choosing when to go, so we pick the off-peak times most of the time.

In the past we have gone early Dec. for our holiday visit. This year we choose mid-December. I wouldn't go back in mid-Dec. again

If you can only go at a certain time then go. It's better than not going at all. But, I would have a plan. Make sure to have ADR's and bring lunch to the parks (unless you plan to skip lunch) and get an early start. And make a list of your priorities. There will be many park things you won't have time to do in a day because the waits will be too long. Many FPs will run out. Think about "resort hopping" at lunch time if you choose not to bring lunch. Check out the decorations there and have lunch at one of that resort's restaurants. If you are prepared for all of that you should be ok.

 

[MickeyMonstersMom]

Thanks for the feedback. I've been to WDW at Easter/Spring Break twice - the first time was a nightmare, the second (when I researched and had a realistic plan) went much better - so I'm sure we could survive Christmas there. If we go, I'll definitely make ADR's for every day to minimize dining-related stress. Packing a lunch for the parks is a great idea too, or even just baggies of snacky stuff like carrots and such.

Bytheblood, a reconciliation is extremely unlikely (I appreciate your thoughtfulness). Despite our differences, though, we are able to do things together with the kids, generally balancing time with each of us as well as all together. His generosity in this case is meant to ensure that he can see his kids, so it's nice that all of us could benefit from it: not only can the Dkids see Dad for Christmas, but it can also be at the Happiest Place on Earth!

OK, so who am I fooling? I may as well get in touch with the travel agent now...

 

[tubachick]

SLOW and STEADY makes a nice holiday vacation. If you go with the knowledge and are ready for the crowds (and make ressies for dinner) you'll have a good time. The decorations are great and the kids will be happy to spend the holidays with everyone. My step kids love it when we all "get along".

 

[makinorlando]

Since this is not their first visit to WDW, it is not like you will feel that you need to fit it all in at one time! I think that is where the crowds get people down, when they have high expectations, and minute by minute plans! Be flexible, have fun and enjoy! It is a wonderful time of the year! As you said, it is an awesome opportunity for your kids!

(Being a local now- I go as much to the parks from T-day to the weekend prior to Christmas and then stay away until Jan 2nd!!!)

 

[loribell]

We are going the day the kids get out of school for the holidays next year. Taking youngest for her birthday, the 23rd. I have been planning already and pretty much have it figured out where to make all of our ADR's for. We're DVC members so I will start making my day by day reservations on January 17th at the Wilderness Lodge Villas.

I think you should call that travel agent. Maybe we'll see you there.

Lori

 

[andriade]

We went the week after Christmas in 2003. I was a WDW neophite and knew NOTHING. It was crazy busy. My recomendation would be to avoid the parks on New Year's EVE. Go to the parks EARLY New Year's Day and see everything before noon and get out. The rest of the time isn't bad IF you have ADR's. We still had a blast. Have a wonderful trip. And, coming from divorced parents, I salute you for the way you and your ex make things work for your kids. My parents both came over for dinner last night and it was so nice to not have to have separate Christmas dinners! Happy Holidays!