Tell Me What Christmas Day and that Weekend Would Be Like, Including Weather

[simba2]

Due to the loss of a family member this past year, this Christmas won't be the same. I can't bear the thought of staying home and trying to have a traditional Christmas. I know it will just be too hard for me -- too many memories; too many tears. I'm seriously considering getting away for the holiday. I just have to convince DH as we just returned from the World earlier this month. I tried to interest him with Christmas Dinner at O'Hana, but no luck. Anyway, he thinks it would be too cold (says we always see the parade on TV and people have on mittens and hats and that we can stay home where it is cold) [he's sounding a tad grinchy] and thinks it will be wall to wall people. Who's been on Christmas Day and the next few days. What is it like? How cold is it during the day? I'm thinking of flying down on Christmas eve and flying home on Sun.

 

[Niagara2]

Will be our first Christmas too.....anyone???

 

[gduvall]

We've never been to Disney on Christmas Day, we usually get there the day or two after. It can be very crowded, but as long as you know that ahead of time, you just deal with it. As far as temp., that time of year is very unpredictable, we're had 50 degree for the high and we've also had mid 70 degrees. You just need to plan for both. Even with the crowd and temp. it is still worth going at Christmas time, Disney is just such a magical place at Christmas time.

 

[PamOKW]

Going to WDW for the Christmas to make new memories is a great idea (and one that many people do). It is very crowded but it is wonderful as well. It's especially nice if you can concentrate on the special holiday happenings, decorations, etc. and not worry about hitting all the rides.

Weather is a real wild card. I can guarantee that it will be warmer than here in New England. However, I can't guarantee what it will be. Temps can range anywhere from daytime high's in the 80's (with nighttime lows in the 50-60 range) to daytime highs in the 40-50 range and nighttime lows in the 20's. It's even possible to hit all of the above in the same trip! Layers are the way to go.

I also found the resorts themselves to be surprisingly relaxing even though they are all full. They have a real holiday spirit at the resorts as well.

 

[Grumpy92]

It sounds like you need an extra magical holiday and wdw is the perfect place to find it. You will find a totally different mood at wdw during this time of year. If you really are going to do this you need to get moving. Resort resv & PS tend to go very fast, but keep trying there will be cancellations. Yes it tends to be busy but going the week of xmas is all in the attitude, be flexible and bring your xmas spirit. So many wonderful things to do at xmas here. Here are a few just to get you going.

1. CP the best show at wdw. We usually get the dinner pkg and it is worth the extra $$. It is a show with a full choir & orchestra, a guest narrator tells the story of the first xmas. They sing every carol you can imagine, I get goosebumps every year. If this doesnt get you in the holiday mood nothing will.

2. Holidays around the World at EC. Each country has a storyteller that shares their countries holiday tales & traditions. Santa ofcourse is in America. Such a wonderful learning experience for the kids. They also have a canopy of lights over the bridge that connects FW & WS timed to xmas music. We stand there forever just watching.

3. MK, Main St has the traditional decorations as well as a wonderful preshow for the lighting of the xmas tree. A moving flag ceromony is held beforehand gets you everytime.

4. Resorts. Each resort decorates using the theme of the resort. Doing a resort tour is a must. GF one evening begins with roasted chestnuts, cm carols and the band/pianist who play wonderful carols into the evening. They have a huge gingerbread house that sells the tasty morsels. We go early for tea or have cocktails in the lobby. FW is another great resort you can go to the campfire and then walk a few loops as the guest go all out decorating their campsites. Wow!!

Here is a great site that explains all the activities and will answer many of your questions.
http://wdwig.com/h_christmas.htm

 

[goofy4tink]

Simba2, sorry to hear of your family loss. We are in the same situation this year. But, I couldn't talk anyone into the trip so close to our last trip in Aug. But we are going down next year, from the 18-23. I figure the weather has to be better than here. I understand that the crowds are huge from 24th on, right through NYE. But, I would go anyway. Just have the frame of mind that says...'yep, there will be a ton of people, just like me, having a good time.' We went in late Oct. one year and it was down to the 40's at night! But, daytime was wonderful. Just pack some sweatshirts/hats/mittens and you'll be fine.
I hope you end up going and having a terrific time. Make some new memories for yourself and your family.