Welcome back to the Disney Parks Mom Panel, Carolyn! Thank you for bringing us your question.
It's no secret that
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) is my favorite event at Walt Disney World. There is truly nothing like walking down Main Street U.S.A. with snow falling overhead... IN FLORIDA!
Instead of visiting a park on your party day, I suggest sleeping in and enjoying your resort until early afternoon. Around 2:00 p.m., head over to the Magic Kingdom. However, instead of going in jump on the Resort Monorail and spend the afternoon touring Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. You could even grab an
early dinner at one of these resorts. This will free up some time to spend on the attractions during the party. Taking this approach to your party day accomplishes a few things: (1) saves a day of park passes, (2) gives you a chance to see a resort you might want to stay at in the future and (3) you will be nice and rested for partying with Mickey late into the night.
A random note about attending MVMCP: Historically, party guests have been allowed to enter the Magic Kingdom with their party ticket only as early as 4:00 p.m. More time with Mickey!
On Thanksgiving Day, I would steer clear of the Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Typically, this two parks have much higher then normal attendance on holidays. The Magic Kingdom has even been known to close to new guests on busy holidays. Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney will be your best bet.
I hope this helps with your planning. If you have any other questions please come back and see me.
Wishing you a magical vacation and a pixie-dusted day!
Sue N., IN