As the year draws to a close, Disney World transforms into a holiday wonderland, with festive decorations, special events, and slightly cooler temperatures. While it's one of the busiest times of the year, December offers an enchanting experience for those who love the magic of the holiday season.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Walt Disney World?
December is indeed a busy month at Disney World, with the holiday season drawing large crowds. However, the festive atmosphere and special events make it a magical time to visit. Here are some reasons we love December at Walt Disney World:
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: This joyful festival celebrates holiday traditions from around the world, featuring World Showcase Storytellers, the Candlelight Processional, and delightful holiday treats.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Held several nights a week, this special event at Magic Kingdom offers exclusive character meet-and-greets, festive parades, fireworks, and holiday-themed treats like cookies and hot cocoa.
- Holiday Decorations: Disney parks and resorts are adorned with stunning holiday decorations, including elaborate gingerbread houses. Don't miss the festive atmosphere at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
- Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: This specially ticketed event brings vintage Christmas vibes with themed entertainment and unique holiday offerings.
- Enjoyable Weather: December usually brings cooler temperatures and less rain, making it a pleasant time to explore the parks.
What to Expect in December
While December offers plenty of holiday cheer, it also comes with larger crowds, especially around Christmas and New Year's Eve. Planning and flexibility are key to making the most of your visit.
Crowd Calendar for December 2025
- December 1-20: Expect heavy crowds, especially on weekends. Early December used to be less crowded, but it's now popular for visitors checking out the holiday decorations.
- December 21-31: Peak holiday crowds make this period one of the busiest of the year.
Tips for Navigating the Crowds
- Plan Ahead: With heavy crowds expected, having a plan can enhance your experience. Use our Disney World Crowd Calendar to determine the best times to visit each park.
- Flexible Itinerary: Be ready to adapt your plans, as attractions and shows can vary in availability and wait times.
Special Events and Attractions
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: A must-attend event featuring parades, fireworks, and special character experiences.
- Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays: Experience holiday traditions from around the world with storytelling, music, and delicious food.
- Jollywood Nights: This new event at Hollywood Studios brings a nostalgic Christmas atmosphere with unique entertainment and activities.
December Weather and What to Wear
December weather in Orlando typically ranges from lows in the 50s to highs in the low 70s. While some days can be chilly, others may be warmer than expected. Dressing in layers is recommended for comfort throughout the day.
- Rainfall: December averages just over 2.5 inches of rain, making it one of the drier months. Still, it's wise to pack ponchos and extra shoes in case of unexpected showers.
Additional Tips
- Swimming: Disney's pools are heated, so you can enjoy swimming even if the air is chilly. At least one of the water parks remains open during the winter months.
- Special Events: Consider purchasing tickets early for popular holiday events, as they can sell out quickly.
- Stay Informed: Check park hours regularly, as Disney may adjust them closer to your visit.
10 tips for visiting Walt Disney World in December 2025. Walt Disney World in December 2025- Tips and tricks
Visiting Disney World in December is a magical experience with holiday festivities and events. Here are ten tips to help you make the most of your visit in December 2025:
1. Plan ahead for special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights. These events often sell out quickly, so purchasing tickets early is recommended.
2. Use the My Disney Experience app to check ride wait times, make dining reservations, and manage Lightning Lane Multi-Pass selections. This will help you optimize your time in the parks.
3. Arrive at the parks before opening to enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions, especially during the busy holiday season.
4. Consider purchasing the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass for quicker entry to popular rides. Plan your selections strategically to minimize wait times.
5. Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel can provide benefits like early park entry and extended evening hours, giving you more time to enjoy the attractions.
6. December weather in Orlando can vary, with cooler mornings and evenings and warmer afternoons. Dress in layers and bring rain gear to be prepared for any weather changes.
7. Don’t miss the beautiful holiday decorations across all four parks and resorts. Be sure to check out the gingerbread displays and special holiday treats.
8. Dining reservations open 60 days in advance and can fill up quickly during December. Book your must-do dining experiences as soon as possible.
9. Parks can get crowded and busy, so consider returning to your hotel for a midday break or a swim before heading back for evening events and fireworks.
10. Review crowd calendars to choose the best days for visiting each park. Early December tends to be less crowded than the days closer to Christmas and New Year.
By planning ahead and using these tips, you can navigate the crowds and make the most of your Disney World trip during the magical holiday season. Enjoy your visit!
Free Holiday Magic at Disney World Resorts: Must-See Experiences in 2025
Visiting Walt Disney World during the holiday season is a magical experience, but did you know you don’t need a park ticket to soak up the festive spirit? Disney’s resorts go all out for the holidays, offering incredible decorations, entertainment, and activities—many of which are completely free! Keep in mind these amenities are for resort guests only- with the exception of coming and view Holiday decor, enjoying a meal, or popping into Disney Springs- use your best judgement when visiting resorts that your not staying at. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the magic or just want to explore beyond the parks, here’s a guide to the best complimentary holiday experiences at Disney World’s resorts.
🎄 Resort Holiday Decorations & Christmas Trees
One of the easiest ways to enjoy Disney's holiday magic for free is to resort hop and check out the stunning decorations. Each Disney resort has its own unique holiday theme, with gorgeous Christmas trees, twinkling lights, and festive details that make for perfect photo ops.
Must-See Disney Resort Christmas Trees:
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Features an enormous Victorian-style Christmas tree and life-sized gingerbread house.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Cozy lodge vibes with rustic holiday décor and a breathtaking tree in the lobby.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – A tree filled with African-inspired ornaments and stunning holiday details.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort – Home to a completely edible gingerbread carousel!
Tip: If you’re staying on property or dining at a resort, use Disney’s complimentary transportation (boats, monorails, and Skyliner) to make resort hopping even easier!
Gingerbread Displays & Holiday Treats
Disney’s resorts are famous for their incredible gingerbread displays, some of which are so large they double as pop-up shops! While treats are available for purchase, it’s completely free to visit and take in the sights (and the delicious smell of gingerbread!).
Gingerbread Displays in 2025:
Grand Floridian’s Gingerbread House – A life-sized house with hidden Mickeys!
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – A stunning gingerbread display inspired by Mary Blair’s artwork.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort – The iconic gingerbread carousel, complete with moving horses.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – A gingerbread replica of the resort itself!
💡 Bonus: Hidden Mickey scavenger hunts are sometimes available at select displays. Ask a Cast Member if they have a checklist to follow!
Holiday Movie Nights Under the Stars
Every Disney resort offers complimentary Movies Under the Stars, where you can watch Disney films on a big screen outdoors. During the holidays, many resorts feature seasonal favorites like Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, The Santa Clause, or Frozen.
Where to Watch:
All Disney Resort Hotels (check the resort’s daily schedule for movie listings).
Most all Disney World resorts.
Tip: Bring a cozy blanket and some snacks to make it extra special!
Resort Views of Holiday Fireworks & Electrical Water Pageant
Want to see Disney’s holiday fireworks without a park ticket? Many resorts have fantastic viewing spots for Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks (from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party) or EPCOT’s Luminous: The Symphony of Us.
Best Free Fireworks Viewing Spots:
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – A stunning beach view of Magic Kingdom’s fireworks.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Head to the 4th-floor viewing deck.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort – Enjoy a waterfront view of the show.
BONUS: Electrical Water Pageant – This floating light parade sails across Seven Seas Lagoon every night, with twinkling lights and classic holiday tunes. You can catch it from the beaches of the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Wilderness Lodge, and Fort Wilderness!
Take in the Disney Springs Holiday Magic
While not a resort, Disney Springs is a must-visit during the holidays and offers plenty of free experiences:
Christmas Tree Stroll – A collection of themed Disney Christmas trees.
Holiday DJs & Live Music – Festive entertainment throughout the shopping district.
Snowfall in Town Center – Experience "Florida snow" in the evenings!
Final Thoughts: Free Holiday Fun Beyond the Parks
Disney’s resorts offer so many amazing holiday experiences that don’t require a park ticket! Whether you’re enjoying the stunning decorations, catching a Christmas movie, or watching fireworks from a resort beach, there’s plenty of free holiday magic to explore.
Have you ever visited Disney’s resorts during the holidays? Which festive experience is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
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