WDW Marahton (January) weekend crowd level

[ohMom]

I haven't been to marathon weekend since 2007, but with our WISH 10 year anniversary next year, I'm strongly considering it. So I'm curious for those who have been going back since 2005, what's your take on the current crowd levels around the long weekend? before and after the actual weekend even. I recall the crowds not being much at all, but I know these events have grown by leaps and bounds. TIA!

 

[derekleigh]

I haven't been to marathon weekend since 2007, but with our WISH 10 year anniversary next year, I'm strongly considering it. So I'm curious for those who have been going back since 2005, what's your take on the current crowd levels around the long weekend? before and after the actual weekend even. I recall the crowds not being much at all, but I know these events have grown by leaps and bounds. TIA!

I've been 4 times to WDW during Marathon Weekend (2008, 2012 - 2014) of those I actually ran in 2012 and 2014 (2013 was a last minute decision and all races were full).

Anyway, I noticed this year's event was a little more crowded (most likely due to new events), but once Monday hits crowds reduced.

Most of the iconic rides (TOT, Aerosmith, etc) usually had long lines during the race weekend, while a lot of other attractions had small wait times.

 

[lkh]

We've gone in 2013 and 2014 and 2014 was noticeably more crowded. We still got to do all the rides we wanted but we were spoiled with <10 minute waits in 2013.

 

[Castle2Castle]

We ran 2013 and only visited the parks on Monday when we had completed Goofy. I can't speak to the weekend, but the week after was fantastic up until the following Sunday - crowds seemed to pick up quite a bit for MLK weekend, and room pricing reflected that Disney anticipated it.

 

[cewait]

I would not classify the weekend as crowded. I do see the volume higher than in many of the years in 2014 but still not to the point that I would say crowded. Definitely, the days after the marathon were very enjoyable.

By far, the worst year for crowding was 2006 when the race was held on the first weekend after New Years. We came into the hanger-onners from the holidays and the parks were packed up to the Saturday of race weekend.

 

[ohMom]

thanks!! good info!! and I like the answers