Which November weekend would be better?

[ImarriedGrumpy]

I'm planning on taking DS14 to DLR for one weekend in November. We've been during Halloween season before, so we're more interested in seeing Christmas decorations at the parks. Would Nov 11-13 or Nov 18-20 be better? I know we're more likely to see decorations later in November - would they be up on the 12th already, or should we wait another week? We'd save about $300 on airfare and hotel if we came the earlier weekend.
TIA!

 

[starlite_]

Last year we went around the 11 (it was the first or second weekend for the holidays) and everything was set up already, there wasn't as much ppl as I would expect there to be later in the month. The only rides with long lines were Splash and Space.

 

[ImarriedGrumpy]

Last year we went around the 11 (it was the first or second weekend for the holidays) and everything was set up already, there wasn't as much ppl as I would expect there to be later in the month. The only rides with long lines were Splash and Space.

Thank you! That's helpful to know. We're hoping to avoid the super crazy holiday season, but we'd like to see the decorations. We've never been to DLR in November or December before.

 

[sophy1996]

Last year they officially kicked off the holidays on November 12. Decorations were up, and November 11 was the first Merriest Nites party, then from the 12th on, the Christmas Fantasy parade was running.

 

[DLgal]

Either weekend will work as they always have the decor and entertainment by the second Friday of November.

 

[V.I.N.CENT.]

I would go earlier if possible. Gets more packed around Thanksgiving. Always prepare for the worst and hope for the best!

 

[ImarriedGrumpy]

Thanks everyone! We'll book Nov 11-13 and hope for decorations and treats and maybe lighter crowds. DS and I have a similar Disney touring style - laid back and go with the flow, with moments to pause and have a snack and enjoy the atmosphere. We just did a big WDW trip with our friends who are more of the "cram as much in as possible" travelers, and it was very fun, but we're ready for a more relaxed trip.

 

[pharmama]

I'm sure decorations will be up for the 11th-13th and that Friday will likely be the first day of official holiday season (so you'll have holiday parade, fireworks, World of Color etc.). That will also be a 3 day holiday weekend for many people with Veterans Day that Friday so I don't know that I would count on lower crowds. That said, I've gone the equivalent of that weekend several times and it's never been horrible. It sounds like you have a good attitude to enjoy the parks regardless of what the crowds turn out to be which is great!

 

[ImarriedGrumpy]

I'm sure decorations will be up for the 11th-13th and that Friday will likely be the first day of official holiday season (so you'll have holiday parade, fireworks, World of Color etc.). That will also be a 3 day holiday weekend for many people with Veterans Day that Friday so I don't know that I would count on lower crowds. That said, I've gone the equivalent of that weekend several times and it's never been horrible. It sounds like you have a good attitude to enjoy the parks regardless of what the crowds turn out to be which is great!

I totally forgot about it being Veterans Day weekend! That means DS will be off school on Friday, so that makes life easier for us. We’ll be fine with whatever crowds come our way, but it’s good to be warned ahead of time!