Family at EPCOT Festival of the Holidays; father holding son; mother eating a cookie wearing Santa hat
  • On Jun 22, 2025
    Katie from TN Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My family and I are looking to come the week before thanksgiving, it will be our kids first time to Disney. We want to see the Christmas decorations but looking for the lowest crowd times during that time. How crowded is the week before thanksgiving?

    Hey, Katie! 
    Welcome to planDisney! A Christmas holiday at Walt Disney World is truly something special. Your family is in for a magical experience filled with joy, twinkling lights, and unforgettable memories.

    My family and I especially love visiting the week before Thanksgiving. The crowds are generally lighter since many guests wait to travel during Thanksgiving week, but most of the holiday decorations are already in place at the parks and resorts. You still get all the festive charm, just with a bit more breathing room! 

    The weather at that time of year is ideal, too. Mornings and evenings tend to be cool enough for a cozy sweater or jacket, while midday is often warm and sunny, which is perfect for a dip in the resort pool or a midday Dole Whip break at Disney's Polynesian Resort. 

    And don’t forget to add Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party to your itinerary! This event at Magic Kingdom includes special character meet-and-greets, snowfall on Main Street, complimentary treats, a festive parade, and a stunning holiday fireworks show. 

    Be sure to stop by Guest Relations or the front desk of your Disney Resort and grab a “First Visit” button for your kids. It’s such a fun (and free!) keepsake to mark their first magical trip to Walt Disney World. Cast Members love to spot these buttons and often go out of their way to sprinkle a little extra pixie dust. Whether it’s a warm welcome, a cheerful “happy first visit!” in line, or a little surprise, these small touches can make your child's experience feel even more special.

    You can also grab buttons for other celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or "I'm Celebrating" for anything from good grades to family reunions. They’re a fun conversation starter, and kids love collecting them!

    Katie, you've chosen the perfect time to spend the holiday season at Disney! If you have more questions about which resort would be perfect for your family or which restaurants you should experience, just stop back by and visit with us again soon.

    Toodles,
    Korliss
thumbnail image for Korliss

Meet the Panelist: Korliss, Alabama

My love for all things Disney began at the age of three, thanks to my parents. Today, that passion is shared with my own Prince, Princess, husband, and extended family, all of whom adore the magic of Walt Disney World just as much as I do. I’m thrilled to share that passion with you and help make your next Disney vacation truly unforgettable! Learn More About Korliss

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