Hi Rhonda! Welcome to planDisney!
I'm excited to hear that you're planning a visit to the
Most Magical Place on Earth! With everything that goes into the planning process, now is the perfect time to start figuring out where you want to stay, what parks you plan to visit, and places you want to eat.
At this time, you can book your trip if you plan to arrive by the end of this year. Based on the information you provided, it seems like your anticipated arrival date is just after Christmas. In this case, there is no need to wait to begin planning your stay. If you decide to change your mind and book a stay for 2026, you will need to wait until the booking window opens for next year. Typically, this will occur in the late spring or early summer, although this estimate is based on prior years. I suggest following along with the
Disney Parks Blog for any updates and announcements.
Walt Disney World does release
special offers throughout the year. This may be discounted pricing on resort stays, special ticket offers, and even offers on the Disney Dining Plan. If you happen to book your trip for later this year before these offers are announced, you can possibly modify your vacation package to include these discounts. The best way to do so is to book a stay that includes a Disney Resorts hotel and ticket package. You'll be required to pay a deposit at the time of booking, but the remaining balance will not be due until 30 days before you arrive. These packages are usually customizable and can be modified if needed.
Rhonda, I hope this information helps you begin planning for your stay! A trip during the
holiday season is everything you imagine it would be, with festive decor and holiday displays set up across many of the parks and resorts. It's one of my favorite times of the year to visit!
Happy planning!
Greg