WDW trip moved to December

[GatorChris]

We were slated to go last week, with a business conference this week. But then....the Delta variant blew right through our vaccines. So here we are in Cali. But we rescheduled for mid-December. That means my wife will have to take time off from her teaching job. But we have to make this up to the kids, plus we need to use the Southwest tickets by mid-January.

What can you tell me about December? Our last trip to WDW was Dec 2012 and it was brilliant. But I don't know what's offered anymore. Epcot used to have great live shows. Will those show up again? Is there a special Christmas fireworks? Candlelight processional still going, and how is that booked?

Thanks!

 

[Tonberry]

December has gotten quite busy since 2012. This year will be no different given that it's the 50th anniversary. People will still try and tell you that early-mid December isn't busy and has low crowds, but they're either going by old outdated information or just remembering how it was years ago.
Either way December has arguably the best weather that you can ask for. Usually in the 70's, oppressive humidity is gone, hurricane season is over, and those pop up afternoon storms are way way less likely.
For entertainment, Disney Very Merriest After Hours is new this year replacing the MVMCP. Tickets aren't on sale yet. Check it out here.
Epcot has their International Festival of the Holidays. Candlelight Processional has not been announced and no information of any kind has been released on it. Most people are assuming it's not going to happen this year.
Entertainment and events have really been toned down this year, whether it's due to Covid, budget cuts, lack of staffing, or all 3.
If you plan on going, you should book a room soon as there's not a lot to choose from.

 

[GatorChris]

For entertainment, Disney Very Merriest After Hours is new this year replacing the MVMCP. Tickets aren't on sale yet. Check it out here.

Well, that has me worried. I reserved some days already. I'll probably have to reschedule my MK days to non-party days so we can catch some fireworks and actually have extra time in the parks. And of course, that will make those non-party days a zoo.

 

[Tonberry]

Keep in mind that it's not actually a party. It's an after hours event, so it doesn't start until after MK closes at it's normal time to regular guests.

 

[Marionnette]

Well, that has me worried. I reserved some days already. I'll probably have to reschedule my MK days to non-party days so we can catch some fireworks and actually have extra time in the parks. And of course, that will make those non-party days a zoo.

The "parties" are actually after-hours events. Fireworks take place during normal park hours. You will probably see an uptick in crowd density as guests with tickets for the event will most likely be allowed entry around 7 PM with the actual event beginning about 30 minutes after official park closing. At least, that's how it will be handled for the Boo Bash.

 

[katyjeka]

We are also going in December. Plan to arrive around the 8th for a couple weeks. Although it is busier than before it is still a great time to go. Weather is usually very nice and the Christmas decorations are amazing. I have not researched the after hours events yet but I do have our days reserved. Have a great time.

 

[Disneyfan754321]

December is awesome especially before the schools let out for break. Weather is perfect, pools are open.