Hi Marcia!
Thanks for your question.
Disney World should be anointed the "Eighth Wonder of the World," that is just how many guests from all over the world are attracted to the resort area. It is a testament to Disney's commitment to preeminent service, quality, and pure excellence.
Disney World is to the point where there really isn't a non-peak period, at least in the traditional sense of the word. However, if I were to look at a calendar year, here are the times I would say they are typically less congested:
A. From the second week of January-second week of April.
B. From the end of August-the second week of November.
C. The first two weeks of December.The reasons for those time windows:
The first week of January is still pretty busy; most guests stay around a little longer at Disney after New Year's Day.
After the second week of April, Spring Break begins for most schools in the U.S. Expect much larger crowds during that time. Also, afterwards, warmer weather attracts larger crowds, and the state of Florida is pretty balmy already by that time.
Summertime until mid-August (when school begins for most U.S. kids) is mega-busy.
Then the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas): If you go a little earlier than the average guest family (2 weeks or so before the respective holidays), our family has found it to be a little less crowded.
Great
theme parks, great
resort hotels, great
dining plans. That is "The Disney Way!" :-)
Have a Magical Day!
Terry