Some questions about a summer trip to DL

[DC to Disney]

We're planning an August trip to southern California (we live on the east coast), including 3 days at DL. I've been assuming weekdays will be a little less crowded than weekends at DL. Is that true during the summer? Should we try to plan our DL days to fall during the week?

Also, how far in advance will we need to stake out a spot for the Paint the Night parade? We were there last July when the parade had just debuted, and people started sitting on benches and curbs 4 hours in advance. Is it still like that, or have things calmed down a bit?

 

[lk2500]

What part of August? A lot changes from the beginning to the end, park hours, local schools start up, AP blackout dates expire, etc...

 

[DahliaRW]

If the parade is a priority, you might want to do one of the dining packages.

 

[DC to Disney]

What part of August? A lot changes from the beginning to the end, park hours, local schools start up, AP blackout dates expire, etc...

We'd be there some time between August 6-20, probably either the first few days or last few days of that time period. I realize that's a fairly big range, but we're still figuring out the details of our trip.

 

[Disney Lvr of Old]

I'd shoot for earlier in the month (6-15ish) if Haunted Mansion is a must do. It and Space Mountain usually close towards the end of August for the holiday overlay. historically anyways, who knows what's in store for this year!

 

[lk2500]

We'd be there some time between August 6-20, probably either the first few days or last few days of that time period. I realize that's a fairly big range, but we're still figuring out the details of our trip.

Ditto what Disney Lvr of Old said, 8/6-8/15.

The lowest level AP's are blocked out until 8/22 and the last Saturday the 2nd tier is blocked is 8/13. The park will LIKELY still be operating at full hours during that time. Later in August they may open an hour later and close an hour sooner according to some of the historical calendars I see online.

Saturdays that the 2nd tier AP's are blocked out (8/6 and 8/13) are not necessarily more crowded than weekdays, sometimes they can be less crowded. At least that is what I have experienced at the end of June when I usually go.

 

[tammytam]

I can't speak to your question about crowds in August.. but in regards to the parade, we just got back from 5 days in the parks last week. On those weekdays last week, there were people claiming spots for the parade by about 5:00pm, 3+ hours before the start of the parade. It was very busy in the parks.. busier than I had anticipated for the end of April (even knowing crowds have been high this year, and it would be busier than 'normal').