WDW over New Year’s into first week of January - advice

[Silvermist999]

So originally we were planning to be there the first week of January after New Year’s and my only concern then was the weather that week.

Then we saw that a room at the Contemporary - main tower became available from Dec 29th onwards. We have never been to WDW over the holidays and would love the experience, especially New Year‘s! I’m still not sure we should keep our reservation, over concerns with the crowds both at the parks and at the resorts. We haven’t been since 2019 so would we be even able to enjoy the parks and all the new rides, etc. during this time? If we don’t go over the holidays, then we would have to wait until July, after the school year ends. I’m not sure I can wait that long....So convince me to keep our reservation with all your tips and advice please! Or tell me why we should delay our trip, LOL. Thanks!

 

[Mle8308]

I say go. The decorations for the holidays are beautiful and if you buy Genie+ and take advantage of early entry and extra Magic extended hours, it won't be too bad. Yes, crowds will be crazy, but it's not hot. It's also very busy in July and the heat and humidity are pretty bad. Do your research on Genie+ and have a plan. Have a great trip whatever you decide!

 

[CarolynFH]

I too think that with early entry, extra evening hours and G+, plus better weather (it's easier to move quickly from one place to another when it's cooler, and you won't have the routine afternoon thunderstorms either), you'll be able to do what you want - especially if you focus on the main things and don't try to do everything. And the parks do stay open later at that time of year.

 

[Gehrig1B]

This will be the first year in about 6 or 7 we are not there for NYE and the rest of the week. It is not very difficult to manage if you know what to expect. Those who hate crowds will offer a different perspective but there are ways to avoid some of the mayhem, and a little mayhem can be fun.

Rule #1... Do not even think about driving to the parks on the 30th or the 31st.

We usually go to AK on the 31st then hop to MK or EPCOT for NYE fireworks. You can get the best of both worlds by seeing the NYE fireworks at MK on the 30th and EPCOT on the 31st... And no, we have never been denied entry due to capacity closures, especially with a resort reservation and ADRs. It really doesn't happen (again, if you know) and with reservations now I don't expect that to be a problem, even for non-resort guests with reservations and hoppers.

Embrace the insanity!

 

[sponica]

Not going to lie, I measure all crowds by my Christmas break trip in late 04/early 05. Seriously we waited something like an hour for a bugs life. A BUGS LIFE.

All I remember is that there were people everywhere. But when I look back I don't think of the lines, I expected lines. I just remember the fun.