Hi Elaine,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. A trip to Walt Disney World sounds like the perfect way to kick off the new year, and your vacation will be here before you know it!
In my experience, the holiday decorations in the theme parks stay up until
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which will take place January 9-13, 2019. Some resort decorations, such as the gingerbread creations, may begin coming down earlier than that. We don’t have official news of a last day for the decorations, I do suspect they will be gone when you arrive on January 19.
I have great news for you, Elaine: there are lots of amazing new experiences beginning all around the theme parks on January 18, so you will arrive just in time for all the fun.
This Disney Parks Blog post outlines some of the pixie dust coming in January, including 90th birthday celebrations for Mickey and Minnie Mouse, some brand-new Pixar fun, and a cool dance party in honor of The Lion King’s 25th anniversary. I personally can't wait for the new Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party, which is a surprise birthday celebration featuring Disney pals.
Make sure you plan a day at Epcot during your visit, because the
Epcot International Festival of the Arts will be in full swing! Whether you want to see musical performances from Broadway stars, participate in interactive art installations, or taste art-inspired treats, there is so much to take in and enjoy.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn