Welcome to planDisney, Megan!
I'm thrilled to see that you're already planning your trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth! It's great that you're comparing ages of your children and good times to visit the theme parks. Your family will benefit from this foresight!
If I were making this decision for my family (I have an almost 4-year-old and an almost 1-year-old so we are in a similar boat!) I would choose to take my family in May. Here is a list of pros for a 2026 trip for your family in May:
-May is further away from the holiday season, typically does not have runDisney events happening, lands after spring break, and (if you're going earlier in May) is away from any summer vacation crowds. This typically means that May has very manageable crowd levels.
-May has great weather! You're away from the sweltering heat and humidity of summer but a little warmer in the evenings than in January -- meaning you'll be able to really utilize your Disney Hotel pool without your teeth chattering at night!
-
EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival is typically happening in May (check the
Disney Parks Blog for official dates as you get closer to the 2026 Festival season).
-Your children will be older. Age brings lovely things like extra height for rides for your 4.5-year-old, better sleeping habits with your 18-month-old, a wider range of foods your younger one can enjoy, and a deeper interest in things like characters, shows, and attractions for both of your kids.
While January or May would be a lovely time to visit, I would personally choose May!
When you do come to the Sunshine State, Megan, I highly recommend using the
Rider Switch Service on participating attractions!
If you have additional questions before your trip, we'd love to hear from you again at planDisney!
Have a magical day,
Allyn