Your experiences early December

[DisneyFirstTimer10]

Since joining DVC we have taken a different approach with the parks. Last week was our first trip as owners and we realized since we would be back to WDW in six months we didnt need to be so commando in our planning- I was a bit hesitant at first to plan so much down time- but it worked out very well given the heat, and the crowds that picked up closer to Memorial Day weekend. We went to the parks from rope drop till noon- then went back to the resort to swim- two nights of the eight we ended up back in a park around 7pm to see fireworks. The other nights were spent at dinners in different resorts and more relaxing by the pool.

This is our first time going in December and we will be there the 5-12th. I know crowds wont be too heavy, and the temperature will be more condusive to spending more time at the parks (and less at the pools)

Do you find the need to still take an afternoon break from the parks to get out of the crowds/heat?

Is it easier to spend time viewing the holiday decorations and parades/fireworks since its cooler?

The parade filming at MK will take place while we are there- would you avoid MK this day when planning?

Is it a good idea to hit MK early on a MVMCP then hop to another park since we arent going to the party?

We want to experience the candlelight processional in EP and will get a dining package for that- which show do you recommend? The first one around 5pm? the middle one? Later?

Any tips you can give for a family experiencing early December for the first time?

 

[Lucius Best]

Do you find the need to still take an afternoon break from the parks to get out of the crowds/heat?
Is it easier to spend time viewing the holiday decorations and parades/fireworks since its cooler?

Definitely, when it's cooler, you don't need that afternoon break to cool down in the pool. But even during a low crowd time, lines are going to get longer in the afternoon, you could still do breaks.

The parade filming at MK will take place while we are there- would you avoid MK this day when planning?

Is it a good idea to hit MK early on a MVMCP then hop to another park since we arent going to the party?

Yes, and yes. MK on MVMCP dates are always recommended. We've definitely noticed it when party people start coming into MK at 4pm.

 

[Baptist]

I'm excited for you. Early December is a great time to be at WDW! Here is my 2 cents:

You don't need a dining package for the CP (unless it's the most popular narrators). Even then, I suggest lining up right before the 1st show begins. You might have to wait in line a while, but you will get into the second show. I thought the dining packages were too expensive for our family considering we are light eaters.

Reconsider MVMCP. It's a great event and the parade is spectacular (plus the crowds are low).

I would also still plan breaks. Unfortunately, it might not be "pool weather". Too hard to say. But, planned down time is really important for us. Plus, my kids don't care how cold it is. They will get in the pool.

Be sure to see the Osbourne Christmas Lights at Hollywood Studios (assuming they have it this year). It really is spectacular.

Have a wonderful time. You will really enjoy early December!

 

[wdwrich]

Hi DisneyFirstTimer! DW and I will be there Dec 1-12 (renting points at OKW and AKV). While we've been to WDW many times, this will be our first visit in December and our first with the Christmas decorations and activities. We're really looking forward to visiting that time of year. Hope we all have a great time!

 

[wdwjeffc37]

I would avoid the MK when they are filming the parade. From what I have heard it really slows things down. The crowds will be lighter but it will still be crowded. Plan to hop to another park when it gets too bad. We still took breaks during our hops not so much for the pool but to just get away from the crowds for a while. My DD and I swam a couple of time but it was really too cold. Ok when in the water but frigid when we got out. Also remember that the parks close earlier during that season. If they have the Osbourne Lights be prepared for major crowds. We went when the first turned the lights on and it was crazy crowded. Wait until later, closer to park close, to go. The crowds really thinned out at the end of the night. Cheers and have fun!!

 

[BlueStarryHat]

I've been to the MK on parade filming day. Main Street is pretty much impassable, and during the taping of the performances the area around the Hub is very crowded. I don't know how the crowds will be with the extra room at the Hub now. But we love December...a note about the weather. It can get absolutely freezing one week, and then be hot weather the next or even from day to day. Pack for all eventualities.

I'm going to be there December 4th-9th this year. It's a great time to go-all the Christmas magic without the Christmas crowds (although it's still crowded).

 

[Candleshoe]

I loved our early December trip! My only issue was not knowing what to pack. In summer you pack for all hot-all the time.

In December it's more of a layered situation. We had warm and cool days.

I've been trying to work in a December trip again since that time, but as DD gets older I don't schedule during school. She was elementary that one trip we did.

You'll love it.

 

[SadieDawn90]

Last year we went from the 14-19 of December. Crowds were much heavier than I expected (probably due to free dining. We had originally planned to go earlier in the month but changed our dates when they released free dining. I imagine others did the same.) but the weather was wonderful. This year we'll be giving from the 5th-12th, and hope to compare crowd levels. I LOVE that time of year, and with the added magic of Disney, it's heaven :]