On
Jan 15, 2011
Sabrina from TN
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.
“
I'm planning our 3rd visit to WDW, we came dec 09/10, but this time we want to do mid oct/12 and do MNSSHP. We really loved christmas at disney but didnt care to much for the crowds and cold weather, so whats it like in oct vs dec with weather and people ?”
Hi Sabrina!
Ironically, your question includes my two favorite times of the year to visit Walt Disney World...October and December, and my two favorite holidays, Christmas and Halloween!
I will spare you the benefits of a December visit as you have already done this, and it's a beautiful (and yes, crowded) time of year to go. October, however, offers its own unique set of benefits. First off, depending on the time of month, the crowds can be very manageable, particularly later in the month. Nothing compared to the Christmas crowd levels. Columbus Day weekend can get pretty busy, but that's near the beginning of the month. Additionally, weather is a bit more predictable. I have been in both early and late October, and there are differences even within that same month. Early October can still get quite hot (and worse, muggy), and there tends to be more days than not with pop-up thunderstorms. A few short weeks later, however, it like someone hits a switch, and the days become so much more comfortable (evenings, too). Finally, I think MNSSHP, in and of itself, makes October a month worth visiting. If you have never done it, I HIGHLY recommend it. Even though it is a "hard ticket" event (meaning you need to buy separate admission), it is so awesome how the park comes alive with the dark purple, orange and black lights. The littel touches all over the park are awesome...quite an atmosphere! The kids can trick-or-treat at many locations, and there are character meet-and-greets that are pretty rare. Lastly, the Mickey's Boo to You parade is one of my favorites ever at a park, and the fireworks are magnificent. So, yup, I think you would enjoy October moreso due to better weather and potentially lighter crowds. Remember, the later into the month, the better.
I wish you a Magical vacation!! :)
Chris