Hey Howdy Hey Kerry and welcome to planDisney!
How exciting it is to know that your Magical vacation is getting closer. The big day to make your advanced dining reservations is behind you, now you have to look forward to making your Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass purchases. Of course, it would help to know a little more about the park hours and events for your upcoming vacation, so let's start there so you know what to expect in the parks.
From the Disney site, it looks like they have updated their park hours for all 4 theme parks during your visit, which is available on the
Hours & Events Calendar. Some things to keep in mind are that Disney's Animal Kingdom typically closes early in the fall and winter which you may see a closing time around 6:00 PM. The other parks may be open later depending on the day.
Another thing to be aware of with Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios is the Holiday parties.
Mickey's Verry Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom and
Disney Jollywood Nights in Hollywood Studios take place on select nights. On these nights, the parks will close early to Guests for these special ticketed events you may experience during your stay.
As you mentioned Kerry, one of the many
benefits of staying onsite with Disney Resorts hotels is extra time in the parks!
Early Theme Park Entry allows resort Guests to enter the parks 30 minutes before they officially open to the general public. Evening times are a bit different.
Extended Evening Theme Park Hours allow Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts or other qualifying hotels an extra 2 hours in the parks after they close. These hours are available only on select nights and in select parks. Around the Holiday season, Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios tend to not be included due to the Holiday parties they offer. If you are looking for availability, you may have the best luck with EPCOT and Animal Kingdom.
I hope this information answers your questions without getting too technical! There are a lot of things to consider during this Magical time of year in the parks! Please let us know if you have any further questions, we are always happy to help.
To Infinity and Beyond,
Nick