Christmas on Main Street
  • On Aug 18, 2024
    Ambreen from NY Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    During Christmas week, ideally how early should we enter the park to beat some of the crowds that come later

    Hello Ambreen!

    Welcome to planDisney! I can see that you are very excited about visiting Walt Disney World Resort around Christmas week but worried about your day. It is no secret that Christmas week is traditionally one of the busiest weeks of the year.

    It is strongly advised that if you are visiting on Christmas Day or Christmas week you should be at the Park entrance at least 30 to 40 minutes before the Park opens for you. If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort then you will have the ability to enter 30 minutes before regular Park opening times due to Early Theme Park Entry.  Park opening times can change at any time and I find that sometimes the Parks open earlier and close later during busy times in anticipation of the crowds. This is not always guaranteed but it is a good idea to always keep an eye on the Hours & Events Calendar for the days you are visiting. Figure out the time you are allowed to enter and be at that gate 30 to 40 minutes before that. I would even suggest on Christmas day to be there at least 40 minutes before you can enter. This way you are close to the front of the morning crowds and able to move towards the first rides and attractions you wish to enjoy. The crowds will seem like a lot during that wait till Park opening time but once people start dispersing inside the Parks it will lighten up. The real crowds will start pouring in around 10:30 am and you will start to feel how busy it is. Magic Kingdom Park does a pretty good job at dispersing crowds as there are so many attractions and lands to explore but you really feel it during parades, castle shows, and nighttime spectaculars. Make sure before these events you find your spot at least an hour before and settle in with a snack. If you are not interested in those events then be where you want to be and stay there as you could be trapped on one side of the Park due to crowd flow and closed-off areas. I love riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad during evening fireworks shows and then staying near that area to enjoy the rest. The music is heard beautifully and the Frontierland area is far less crowded. I do miss the projections on Cinderella Castle when viewing from here but I love just having some breathing space. As for the Parades, my favorite spots vary. Sometimes I love to just relax in front of Tony's Town Square Restaurant and be right in the middle of all of the excitement as the parade maneuvers around the circular area by the flagpole and ends. Other times I hang out at the beginning of the parades near Frontierland and head to an attraction before the rest of the crowd. 

    I also strongly suggest purchasing a Lightning Lane Multi Pass for that day so that you are guaranteed at least three attractions to enjoy before you arrive at the Parks. Start your attractions as early as you can and keep booking new ones so that you don't have to wait too long. Don't forget to make your dining reservations at the 60-day mark as they will be booked up quickly for such a busy season. Having a nice meal and being served cool drinks is a great way to take a break and celebrate the holiday season.

    I hope this helps and that you have a jolly time!

    Happy Planning!
    -Nimmy 
thumbnail image for Nimmy

Meet the Panelist: Nimmy, New York

Hey, it's Nimmy from New York! Just like my guy Jiminy Cricket I am your wisecracking and helpful guide to making the best decisions for your Disney vacation! My husband and I work very hard to journey to our favorite place on Earth, Walt Disney World Resort, as much as we can. We have traveled as just adults, with babies, kids, teenagers, and senior citizens. We have seen so many characters, eaten at amazing places, and consumed a ton of Dole Whips. So "give a little whistle" and let me be your guide! Learn More About Nimmy

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