Hi Angie, I have a family of 7, so I can definitely understand why you'd be wanting to find some ways to save money on your Disney vacation.
To begin with, I'd recommend that you travel during Value Season. The rates are at their lowest and the Parks are less crowded. You don't have to worry about it ever being like a "ghost town" at Disney World. Nowadays, there are so many different events going on year-round, that its tough to find a slow time in the Parks. Value season would be as close as you get for that. While the Seasonal calendar isn't out yet for 2011, here are the 2010 dates.
Value Season runs from January
3-6, January 10-14, January 18-February 11, July 18-September 30, and
November 28-December 16.
You can plan on 2011 following a similar pattern.
We like to vacation in the Fall at Disney. October is a particularly beautiful month weather wise, and we find the crowd-levels to be very manageable.
If you are looking to go this year, you may want to select a time during Disney's
Free Dining offer.Currently, this offer valid for arrival dates from 8/15-10/7/10, 10/22-10/28/10, 11/12-11/18/10, 11/27-12/2/10, and 12/10-12/21/10. The majority of your meals would be included, which would save you a
considerable amount of money with a large family. Historically Disney has offered Free Dining each year, but it is never guaranteed and the dates vary each year.
If you would like further help, please send me a follow up question and I'd be happy to assist you further. Happy planning,
Kaylene