Taking my parents to Disney...advice?

[ericatunc]

Hello everyone!

My wife and I are taking my parents (mid-early 60s) to Disney for their first time. This will be our 2nd, our last was Oct '05 for our honeymoon. We going from Dec.3-Dec.11 and are staying at Fort Wilderness in their camper (this is a lot cheaper and how we can afford to pay for them).

I want to make the most of this trip. Is there anything that doesn't happen in December? Are the parks really packed at this time? I've read mixed reviews of using the bus system from Fort Wilderness, any comments?

Here's my rough draft schedule and events. How does this look, missing anything?


Sunday - Hoop Dee Doo
Monday - Animal Kingdom
Tuesday - MVMCP/Fireworks
Wednesday - MGM/Fantasmic
Thursday - Downtown, Cirque De Soleil, Comedy Club
Friday - Epcot/Illuminations
Saturday - Magic Kingdom/Luau
Sunday - Epcot


Thanks!
Eric

 

[Otimon]

Compared with coming a couple of weeks later than you are, the parks will not be too crowded at that time. However, they should be busy.

Don't know what you heard about the bus system from Ft. Wilderness but like anything else, I'm sure it has its times when service was delayed for one reason or another. Don't let that keep you from using it.

Christmas decorations will be up all over Disney at the time of your arrival. Don't miss the Candlelight Processional at Epcot.

Here's wishing you a most wonderful and magical vacation. We'll be waiting for you!

Best wishes.

 

[Tammi67]

We took my parents for their first time 2 yrs ago, in December as well. It looks like you have everything covered. The time of year you have chosen is wonderful - low crowd levels. The only addition/suggestion that I would make would be to schedule in the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, prior to Illuminations. It is a must-see holiday event.

 

[Ron from Michigan]

I think your schedule looks great. I would recommend seeing the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. It is always the highlight of our December trips. We always book the Candlelight dinner package, that way you get to eat at one of the great world showcase restaurants and great seating for the show. I'm sure you and your parents will love the show. I would also recommend making APR's if there are any reastaurants you really want to eat at. Feel free to PM me if you have anymore questions, Ron.

 

[InstImpres]

On a non-scheduling note, I would highly recommend you rent a golf cart. It will help in getting around the resort. It's perfect for getting to the boat dock for MK

 

[ericatunc]

Thanks for the replies. It sounds like I'm on the right track. I wasn't aware of the Candlight at Epcot, but I will book that too.

Depending on where we are going to be at FW, I'll check into a golf cart.

Are there any attractions that aren't operating that time of year?

Eric

 

[disneyfan581]

nope, everything should be opened.

 

[Chuck S]

I too recommend the Candlelight Processional, however, if there is a particularly popluar narrator during your visit, I'd definately consider making a dinner package reservation. Though kind of pricey, it will guarantee you a seat. You will stil need to arrive at the theater about 45 minutes early to get a "better" seat, but at least you won't be waiting in line for a few hours, like some folks, for the most popular narrators.

There are three "tiers" of restaurant prices, but thay all get the same "seating" advantage...so if you budget olny allows for the lowest tier price, that's OK, as long it is a restaurant you like. Narrators/CP pkg prices have not been released for 2006 yet...usually in the July-August time frame.

 

[dbm20th]

I think you should see the Candlelight Procession as well. Your parents will love it.

To me, you have chosen the best possibel time to go. The parks are incredible for the holidays and the crowds are low. They get more busy on the weekends, but they are still terrific.

 

[Tammi67]

I too recommend the Candlelight Processional, however, if there is a particularly popluar narrator during your visit, I'd definately consider making a dinner package reservation. Though kind of pricey, it will guarantee you a seat. You will stil need to arrive at the theater about 45 minutes early to get a "better" seat, but at least you won't be waiting in line for a few hours, like some folks, for the most popular narrators.

There are three "tiers" of restaurant prices, but thay all get the same "seating" advantage...so if you budget olny allows for the lowest tier price, that's OK, as long it is a restaurant you like. Narrators/CP pkg prices have not been released for 2006 yet...usually in the July-August time frame.

But if you are on the dining plan, you won't need to worry about the price!

Another thing that I thought of is the Osborne Lights in MGM.