Hi Sharon!
Thanks for your question and for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
How awesome that you are planning your FIRST visit!! There is no better time to visit
Walt Disney World Resort, in my opinion, than during the holidays!!
There is just something a little extra festive and special about seeing the theme parks and resorts all decked out in their holiday finest. And seeing it snow on Main Street U.S.A. during
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is a whole new level of awesome!
That said, the festive feel usually appears, as if by magic, once the final Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party finishes on November 1st. Seemingly overnight, the theme parks and resorts begin their holiday transformation. It will certainly be at full strength by the time you arrive closer to Thanksgiving.
As for obtaining your "1st Visit" buttons, a MUST DO, you can either collect them at the resort lobby upon check-in or at Guest Services inside any of the theme parks. And then be sure to wear them proudly for the length of your stay.
I hope this helps and I wish you a Magical First Trip!!
Chris