Welcome to planDisney, Heidi! Wow, you've picked a really magical time to visit Walt Disney World. The week between Christmas and New Year's is one of the most exciting times to be at The Most Magical Place On Earth, and while it can get busy, the energy is unmatched by any other time of year. Your dates at the end of December and beginning of January are right in the heart of the
holiday season, so you're definitely in for some extra pixie dust and celebrations.
As for your question about
Extended Evening Hours for Deluxe Resort guests, yes, they are typically offered even during that busy holiday week. They typically take place on Monday and Wednesday evenings, and they're exclusively available to guests staying at
Deluxe Resorts and
Deluxe Villas. While they've most often been hosted at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, there have been surprises, too. Last year, during the holiday season, Animal Kingdom even got in on the late-night fun! So keep an eye on the hours and events calendar as your trip gets closer, since schedules can definitely shift, especially with New Year's Eve falling on a Wednesday this year, it might shake up the usual routine.
Speaking of New Year's Eve, it's a huge celebration across the parks! While it's not a separately ticketed party like
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, which will likely have finished for the season by the time you get there, your regular park admission will get you into all the festivities. Expect special entertainment, dance parties, late-night hours, and of course, spectacular fireworks displays. Magic Kingdom and EPCOT usually pull out all the stops with unique countdown shows that only happen once a year!
I hope this answers your question, Heidi, and please let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you plan your magical vacation.
Jessica