Hiya Doug!
Thanks for stopping by again. The most important things to remember about the opening of each Theme Park are that every park is different and every day is different. So, yes,
sometimes Cast Members may decide to start letting all Guests into the park, or a specific area within the park, before the
posted opening time or even before the
Early Theme Park Entry time (though Disney Resort Guests would usually still have priority).
I know that it might seem random, and it might be frustrating, especially to those of us who like to plan our days with military precision, but it's
always for the benefit of the Guests. Cast Members use their expert judgment to make decisions each morning and their goal is for
all Guests to have a magical experience. I don't know about you, Doug, but for me, short
er waits, few
er crowds, and staying safe are magical for me!
Since you're visiting on the day after Christmas, which can be a busier day in the parks, I recommend giving yourself some extra time in the morning regardless. You might be waiting a bit, or you might be able to enter the park a bit earlier than you expected! Another option is to
make an early breakfast reservation. There are some available before the parks open, and while tough to get, Guests with these reservations are permitted to enter the park early. This doesn't help if you were trying to enter early to experience attractions with shorter waits, but I thought I'd mention it!
I hope this information is helpful, Doug -
stop by any time!Ryan J.