What are the crowds like for the 5 days prior to Christmas Eve

[ChairborneRangr]

We're planning on going when we visit my sister for Christmas next year.

Thanks all!

 

[goofyfordisney]

We were in DL from 12/20-12/23 this past Christmas. Believe it or not, Saturday and Sunday (12/20-21) seemed less crowded than Monday and Tuesday (12/22-23).

We had unlimited Fastpasses thru AAA--this really helped. By Monday and Tuesday it was getting so crowded in DL that there were long lines for the Fastpass machines! There was one line for the Haunted Mansion's fastpass machines that was at least 45 minutes long!

If that is the only time you can go, I would do it...Just plan on getting up early everyday and go when they open. DL was open at 8:00 am everyday and closed at midnight. We could get a lot done before 11:00 am--after that, it was real hard. DCA wasn't nearly as bad. I think before Christmas was less crowded than after Christmas (we've done that and swore to never do it again!)

If you can get the unlimited fastpasses from AAA (I think you have to stay on-site now) I would do it. Also, I would suggest giving your tickets to one person to run around and get fast passes for your entire group...that way you can just go from ride to ride at your own pace without having to stand in line. I was lucky that my husband didn't mind doing this for us!

Have a great trip--there's nothing like Christmas time in Disneyland!!

 

[Judy from Boise]

we were there 12/18 to 12/22, it was very doable the first 3 days with multiple fp starting on the 21st it was way to crowded to be fun in DL.

 

[disneychrista]

The two weeks leading up to Christmas week are very light. Once the week of Christmas hits (which would include your visit) the crowds get heavy. But with careful planning and a good outlook you can still have a good time. Be sure to get there at opening to maximize your time. Take an afternoon break, when the crowds are at there highest. And go back in the evening. Use FP to your advantage. And relax.

We were there over New Years Eve and while it was very crowded we had a fun time.

 

[CalGal]

We arrived late on Dec. 19th and stayed until the 23rd and we've visited before in mid December. I second everything goofyfordisney said. Each day approaching Christmas was more crowded. Once the schools let out, we start pouring in. It's a magical place to be during the holidays, but the earlier in the December the better for the crowds. Our approach was to go the MK at opening, ride a few rides, then start collecting fastpasses (we also had the AAA multi-fast pass benefit). We'd take off for DCA around 11ish as Disneyland became very crowded. After a couple of hours at DCA, we'd go back to the hotel for naps, returning in the evening to one or both parks for the parades and shows. We got very little riding in at DL during the evenings, but DCA wasn't too bad.

 

[lulubelle]

Let's be honest...It is pretty CRAZY!!! But if you arrive early, utilize FastPass and stratorgize wisely, it might not be too bad
Good luck and have a great trip!