Week after Christmas advice

[meesha]

My family will be going to Disney World December 28th through January 4th this year. We've been to Disney plenty of times (including many holiday's) but not at this time of year. We are looking for advice on what days to go to what parks and especially how to spend New Year's Eve. I will have an 11 year old, 9 year old, twin 5 year olds and a 4 month old.

We are not looking to do everything everywhere since we have been there almost every other year and I know the crowds will be overwhelming. I would like for my family to see the decorations and maybe get a chance to experience some of the new things we have not yet had a chance to see (i.e. the Mine Train in MK)

I do not necessarily want to see the fireworks from MK if I can see them just as good somewhere else without all the crowds.

Also we have not used the new ticket and fast pass system so any advice there would be appreciated.

Lastly, we are not staying on Disney property if that makes any difference.

Thanks for any help!!

 

[kmb584]

I recommend EasyWDW's crowd calendar. Josh will not only list which parks are the best, and worst, for each day, but he also explains why. I've planned our trips around his suggestions for years and he hasn't failed me yet.

Since you're staying offsite, you can book FP+ 30 days in advance provided you have valid tickets linked to your account. If you don't have tickets linked, you won't be able to make FP+ selections. Also, when staying offsite it's 30 days out from each day, ie: you can book 12-28 on 11-28, 12-29 can be booked on 11-29, etc. You get 3 per day in advance and can book more once those 3 are used or expired. All selections must be within the same park, but if you hop to another after those first 3 are used/expired, you can book your 4th selection in your second park. 4th+ FP+ can only be booked at an in-park kiosk.