Hi Jay,
Thank you so much for stopping by planDisney with your planning question! January is such a great time to visit Disney World. The Florida weather is cooler (sometimes even coat-worthy!), the holiday hustle starts to quiet down, and there’s a calm, cozy charm that settles over the parks. It’s also a perfect time to celebrate. My husband and I often plan our anniversary trips during this time, and each visit feels like a magical escape.
Now, let’s sprinkle some pixie dust on your question. While crowd levels can be a bit unpredictable (even Madame Leota couldn’t forecast them exactly!), holidays like New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day tend to bring in heavier crowds. So, if you’re looking for a more relaxed visit, I definitely recommend planning your trip after the first week of January.
Another key event to keep on your radar is the
runDisney Marathon Weekend, scheduled for January 7–11, 2026. I’ve had the joy of participating in these events. While the energy is high and inspiring, I’ve personally found that the crowds afterward are still quite manageable, especially if you plan your park days thoughtfully and prioritize early mornings or weekdays.
Pro tip: If you're hoping to avoid the crowds and spend less time waiting in lines, I highly recommend purchasing
Lightning Lanes through the
My Disney Experience App. It’s a great way to breeze through popular attractions and give yourself more time to enjoy the magic—whether that’s snacking on a warm Mickey pretzel, grabbing a spot for the parade on Main Street, or sharing hugs with your favorite characters!
Before your trip, be sure to check the
Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates—it’s a great source for new offerings, limited-time experiences, and magical announcements. You never know when a new show, treat, or character meet-and-greet might pop up.
Jay, I hope this helps as you begin planning your practically perfect January getaway. If you have any more questions, feel free to stop by again.
See ya real soon,
Christina