Hi Erin,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. It sounds like you are planning a magical family vacation at Walt Disney World Resort, how exciting for you and your family! January 2014 will be here before you know it!
Timelines to make Advanced Dining Reservations vary slightly depending if you are staying on Walt Disney World Property or off-property. For those staying on Walt Disney World Property, guests will be able to make Advanced Dining Reservations 180 days prior to the arrival date for the entire trip. Guests staying off property are still able to make Advanced Dining Reservations 180 days prior, however, the 180 days does not include the entire length of stay. In other words, you will have to make reservations each day as the individual day passes the 180 day mark.
If you will be dining with your family who is staying on Walt Disney World Property, I would recommend that you have them book your Advanced Dining Reservations, because they are able to make them a few days earlier. If there are some meals where you will be dining without the family members staying on property, simply take care of those reservations when your 180 day window becomes available.
Advanced Dining Reservations can be made
online, or by calling (407) 939-3463.
If you have any other questions while planning your Walt Disney World Vacation, please let me know. I would be happy to help.
Stephanie