Thinking of taking a trip to Disney World but wondering if it’s open during winter? Well, you’re in luck! As someone who has visited Disney World multiple times during the winter season, I’m here to tell you that it’s absolutely open! Not only is it open, but it’s also an amazing time to visit. The parks are decorated with beautiful holiday decorations, special events take place, and the crowds tend to be more manageable.
One of the things I love about visiting Disney World during the winter season is the cooler weather. Florida can be quite hot and humid during the summer months, which can make the parks a bit uncomfortable. However, during the winter, temperatures are milder and more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the parks for longer periods. Plus, you won’t have to worry as much about getting sunburnt or overheated.
If you’re worried about crowds during the winter season, don’t be. While it’s true that there will be more people visiting Disney World during the holidays, the crowds tend to be more spread out throughout the parks. This means that even though there may be more people in the parks, it won’t necessarily feel like it’s overcrowded. Plus, Disney does an excellent job of managing crowds, so you can rest assured that you’ll still be able to enjoy all of the attractions and experiences the parks have to offer.
Disney’s Winter Season Schedule
Winter is a wonderful time to visit Disney Parks, but many people wonder if they are open during the winter season. The answer is yes, Disney Parks are open during the winter season, and they have a lot of fun activities and events planned to make visiting during the winter season a magical experience.
Winter Events and Activities
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: This event is held in Magic Kingdom park on select nights in November and December. Guests can enjoy a magical holiday parade, a spectacular fireworks display, and complimentary treats.
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: This festival celebrates holiday traditions from around the world with festive decorations, music, and food. Guests can also take part in the Candlelight Processional, a retelling of the Christmas story featuring a celebrity narrator and a live choir.
- Holidays at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: This park is transformed with festive decorations, including a towering Christmas tree. Guests can also enjoy holiday-themed shows and fireworks.
Winter Park Hours
Disney Parks typically have adjusted hours during the winter season, so guests should check the park hours before planning their visit. Generally, the parks open later in the morning and close earlier in the evening during the winter months. However, during holiday weeks, the parks may have extended hours to accommodate the increased crowds.
Weather during the Winter Season
While the winter season in Florida is generally mild with temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the mid-70s, there can be occasional chilly days. Guests should bring warm clothing just in case, especially if they plan on being in the parks during the evening hours.
| Month | Average High | Average Low |
|---|---|---|
| December | 72°F | 54°F |
| January | 70°F | 52°F |
| February | 72°F | 54°F |
Overall, visiting Disney Parks during the winter season can be a magical experience filled with holiday cheer and festive events. With the right clothing and planning, guests can have a wonderful time exploring the parks during the cooler months.
Theme Park Attractions During Winter
Many people wonder if Disney is open during the winter season. The answer is yes! Disney World parks are open year-round, and there are plenty of attractions to enjoy during the winter months.
- Holiday-Themed Attractions: Some of the most popular winter attractions at Disney are those that feature holiday themes. At Magic Kingdom, guests can witness the transformation of Cinderella’s Castle into a glittering ice palace during the night-time holiday show. Epcot features the Candlelight Processional during the holiday season, a retelling of the Christmas story with celebrity narrators and a choir. Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom also have special holiday shows and decorations.
- Indoor Attractions: While Florida’s winter weather is mild, there are still rainy days and cooler temperatures. Luckily, many of Disney’s top attractions are indoors. At Magic Kingdom, attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and It’s a Small World provide a break from the elements. Epcot’s indoor attractions like Spaceship Earth and The Seas with Nemo and Friends are great for cooler days. Hollywood Studios has indoor shows like Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular and Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage. Animal Kingdom’s Dinosaur and It’s Tough to be a Bug! are both indoor experiences.
- Seasonal Entertainment: Disney World offers a variety of live performances and shows throughout the winter season. At Magic Kingdom, guests can watch the Main Street Philharmonic perform classic holiday tunes or enjoy Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration dance party. Epcot showcases the World Showcase Entertainment, highlighting holiday traditions from different countries. Hollywood Studios offers the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! projection and firework show, and Animal Kingdom’s tree of life awakens each night with a stunning winter-themed projection show.
Winter Park Hours and Tips
Disney World typically has shorter operating hours during the winter season, but the hours vary by park and day of the week. It’s recommended to check the park schedule for the most up-to-date information. As a general rule, the parks are less crowded during the winter months, making it a great time to visit. Lines for popular attractions and shows will be shorter, and it’s easier to secure reservations for character experiences and restaurants. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, and bring layers as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of special winter photo opportunities, like the giant gingerbread display at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa!
| Park | Winter Hours |
|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (varies) |
| Epcot | 10:00 am – 9:00 pm (varies) |
| Hollywood Studios | 9:00 am – 8:00 pm (varies) |
| Animal Kingdom | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (varies) |
Overall, Disney World parks are a great destination for winter travelers who want to escape the cold and enjoy some of the best holiday-themed attractions and shows. With shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and plenty of indoor entertainment options, the winter season can be the perfect time to visit the Happiest Place on Earth!
Festive Events at Disney during Winter
Disneyland is a magical place to visit during the winter months, with festive events and activities that will make your holiday season unforgettable. Here are some of the events you can enjoy at Disneyland during the winter:
- Disneyland Christmas Parade – One of the most popular events during the holiday season is the Disneyland Christmas Parade. The parade features floats of popular Disney characters, marching bands, and even a visit from Santa himself.
- Holiday Decorations – Disney is known for its elaborate decorations throughout the year, but during the winter months the parks are transformed into a winter wonderland. From Main Street to Cars Land, you’ll find holiday decorations around every corner.
- World of Color – Season of Light – This nighttime spectacular takes place at Disney California Adventure and features a dazzling display of lights, water, and holiday music.
In addition to these events, there are also special holiday-themed food and drinks available throughout the parks. Try a peppermint churro or hot cocoa in a holiday souvenir mug.
If you’re looking for a more immersive holiday experience, consider attending one of the following events:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party – This special event at Disneyland Park is a separate ticketed event that takes place on select nights during the holiday season. The party includes special holiday shows, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets.
Holiday Time at Disneyland Tour – This guided tour takes you through the parks and showcases the holiday decorations and festivities. You’ll also learn about the history of holiday celebrations at Disneyland.
| Event | Date(s) | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Disneyland Christmas Parade | November 10–January 6 | Disneyland Park |
| World of Color – Season of Light | November 9–January 6 | Disney California Adventure |
| Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party | Select nights in November and December | Disneyland Park |
As you can see, there are plenty of festive events and activities to enjoy at Disneyland during the winter months. Whether you’re visiting for the day or attending a special event, you’re sure to have a magical holiday season at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Winter Activities at Disney Resorts
Winter is a magical season at Disney Resorts. From November through January, guests can experience a wonderland of holiday happenings, special events and themed decorations. Here are some exciting activities to enjoy during your winter vacation at Disney:
- Meet Santa Claus: Santa Claus is a classic symbol of the holiday season and no winter vacation at the Disney Resorts would be complete without a visit to Santa Claus. You can meet with Santa throughout the day and have your photo taken with him while telling him your Christmas wishes.
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Flurry of Fun: This is a holiday event that runs from November through early January. Experience majestic snow flurries, a 6-story tall Christmas tree adorned with over 300,000 vibrant lights, as well as access to some rides.
- The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights: This is a magical display of millions of lights synchronized to holiday music and animation. This event takes place in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and runs nightly in the backlot area from late November through early January.
Ice Skating and Snow Sledding at Disney Resorts
If you are looking for some ice and snow fun, Disney Resorts have got you covered:
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in California hosts the ‘Festival of Holidays’, which includes an iceskating rink. Meanwhile, Vail in Colorado is another Disney-adjacent property that boasts superb ski resorts that guest can take a shuttle to.
| Disney Resort | Ice Skating/Snow Sledding Activities |
|---|---|
| Disney’s California Adventure Park | ‘Festival of Holidays’ at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa – ice skating rink |
| Vail, Colorado | Take a Disney shuttle to enjoy the world-famous skiing or snowboarding during your winter vacation. |
Winter Golfing at Disney Resorts
If you are a fan of golf, don’t worry about the cold weather preventing you from enjoying a round. Three of the Disney Resorts offer winter golf packages that come with plenty of benefits. All three packages include at least one round of golf and use of golf carts. Additional benefits vary only with varying package prices:
- The Walt Disney World Winter Golf Package: allows guests to enjoy spectacular play on up to three courses and includes lodging at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and a six-seater golf cart for up to three rounds.
- The Unlimited Golf Package at Walt Disney World Resort: this package gives guests unlimited golf play after 3 PM at the nine-hole Oak Trail Golf Course, Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course, Disney’s Palm Golf Course, and Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. This discounted golf package also includes access to the practice facility, and early access to Disney FastPass+ planning up to 90 days prior to your arrival date.
- Disney Golf Winter Getaway package: this package includes lodging at Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Resort Village, three rounds of golf (with cart) on any of the championship courses, and access to the practice facility at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course and Disney’s Palm Golf Course.
Winter-themed Entertainment at Disney
When it comes to entertainment, Disney is known for going all out, no matter the season. And winter is no exception. Here are five winter-themed entertainment options you can enjoy at Disney:
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Sunset Seasons Greetings: Prepare to be dazzled by the stunning holiday projections on the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Featuring appearances from beloved Disney characters, this show is a must-see for anyone visiting the park during the winter season.
- Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays: From November through December, Epcot’s World Showcase is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with stunning holiday decorations, live musical performances, and delicious seasonal treats from around the world.
- The Magic Kingdom’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Held select nights from November through December, this festive event features a special holiday parade, firework show, and character meet-and-greets. Plus, there are plenty of holiday-themed snacks and drinks to enjoy throughout the park.
- Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail: Wandering through Disney Springs’ Christmas Tree Trail is a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit. Featuring 27 elaborately decorated trees, each one uniquely themed to a beloved Disney character or movie, this charming walk is perfect for the whole family.
- Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life Awakenings: During the winter season, the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom is transformed into a stunning display of light and music. Watch as the tree comes to life with projections of various animals, each telling its own fantastical story.
So, whether you’re a Disney veteran or visiting for the first time, there’s something for everyone during the winter season at the Happiest Place on Earth. Don’t miss out on these breathtaking winter-themed entertainment options!
Winter Dining Options at Disney Parks
In the winter, dining at Disney parks can be a magical experience. From festive holiday treats to cozy indoor restaurants, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings while enjoying the season. One of the great things about Disney dining is that they cater to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more.
1. Festive Treats
- At Disneyland, the Jolly Holiday Bakery Café offers holiday-themed treats like gingerbread men and peppermint mochas.
- In Disney World, you can find holiday popcorn buckets in the shape of Mickey and Minnie’s heads, as well as seasonal cupcakes at Hollywood Studios.
- The Epcot International Festival of the Holidays features food booths with global holiday offerings, like lebkuchen (German gingerbread) and tamales from the Mexico pavilion.
2. Fireworks Dessert Parties
One way to enjoy a special winter evening at Disney is with a fireworks dessert party. These parties offer exclusive desserts and drinks, as well as a private viewing area for the nightly fireworks show.
3. Cozy Restaurants
When you need a break from the winter chill, Disney’s indoor restaurants offer a cozy respite. In Disneyland, the Blue Bayou restaurant is a unique choice, as it’s located in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. In Disney World, Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom is a popular spot, with its elegant castle theming and French-inspired cuisine.
4. Character Dining
Character dining is a way to meet and greet your favorite Disney characters while enjoying a meal. During the winter season, many character dining locations offer special holiday menus and decorations. At Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom, for example, you can dine in a castle setting and meet princesses like Ariel and Belle.
5. Outdoor Dining
If you’re looking to enjoy the winter scenery while you dine, Disney’s outdoor dining options offer beautiful views. In Disneyland, the River Belle Terrace overlooks the Rivers of America and has an outdoor seating area with heaters for chilly nights. In Disney World, the Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge in Hollywood Studios offers a shaded patio area with views of the park’s replica of the Chinese Theater.
6. Dining Packages with Reserved Seating
If you want to ensure a good seat for a nighttime show, Disney’s dining packages offer reserved seating with your meal. In Disneyland, the World of Color Dining Package at Carthay Circle Restaurant includes a three-course meal and special viewing areas for the World of Color show. In Disney World, the Fantasmic! Dining Package at Hollywood Studios offers a three-course meal and reserved seating for the park’s nighttime spectacular.
| Disney Park | Winter Dining Highlight |
|---|---|
| Disneyland | Jolly Holiday Bakery Café for festive treats |
| Disney World | Holiday popcorn buckets at Hollywood Studios |
No matter your dining preferences, Disney offers winter options to fit every taste and budget. From festive treats to reserved seating, plan your winter dining experiences now to make the most of the season at Disney parks.
Tips for Visiting Disney in Winter
While visiting Disney in the winter offers its own unique experience, it also comes with some challenges. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your winter Disney trip:
- Plan for Cold Weather: Florida may be known for its warm weather, but winters can still bring cool temperatures. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Bring warm clothes, especially for early mornings and late evenings when temperatures can drop.
- Visit During Off-Peak Season: The winter season at Disney is considered the off-peak season, which means fewer crowds and shorter wait times. Take advantage of the smaller crowds and visit popular rides and attractions without having to wait in long lines.
- Take Advantage of Special Winter Events: Disney offers special events during the winter season, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. These events are a great way to get into the holiday spirit and experience Disney’s winter magic.
- Arrive Early: The parks tend to be less busy in the morning, so arriving early can help you beat the crowds and maximize your time at the park. Plus, you can enjoy the cooler temperatures before it gets too hot in the afternoon.
- Bring Snacks and Water: Staying hydrated and fueled up is important, especially when navigating crowded parks. Be sure to bring enough snacks and water to keep you energized throughout the day.
- Stay at a Disney Resort: Staying at a Disney resort can offer some extra perks during the winter season. Many resorts offer special winter activities such as holiday character appearances, festive decorations, and special shows.
- Check Park Hours and Ride Closures: During the winter season, some parks and rides may have different hours or be closed for maintenance. Be sure to check the park hours and ride closures before your trip to avoid disappointment.
Winter Attractions and Activities at Disney
There are several attractions and activities unique to the winter season at Disney, adding to the magic of your visit. Here are some winter favorites:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
| Attraction/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Sunset Seasons Greetings | A holiday light and sound show featuring iconic Disney Characters. |
| Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! | A nighttime fireworks spectacular with projections and special effects. |
| Toy Story Land Holiday Decorations | The land is turned into a winter wonderland with themed decorations. |
Epcot:
| Attraction/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Epcot International Festival of the Holidays | A celebration of holiday traditions from around the world, featuring cultural entertainment, food, and drink. |
| Candlelight Processional | A retelling of the Christmas story with celebrity narrators and live orchestra and choir. |
| World Showcase Holiday Kitchens | A variety of food booths featuring holiday treats from around the world. |
Magic Kingdom:
| Attraction/Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party | An after-hours party featuring Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Time Parade, special character meet and greets, an exclusive fireworks spectacular, and holiday treats. |
| Holiday Wishes Fireworks | A festive fireworks show set to holiday music. |
| A Frozen Holiday Wish | A special castle lighting ceremony with Anna, Elsa, and Olaf from Frozen. |
With these tips and attractions, you’ll be able to make the most of your winter visit to Walt Disney World. Don’t forget to bundle up and enjoy the magic of the holiday season at the happiest place on Earth!
Is Disney open during winter?
1. Does Disney close during the winter season?
Disney is open all year round, including the winter season.
2. What are the park hours during the winter months?
The park hours vary depending on the day and the season but typically, the park hours during winter are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
3. Are all the attractions open during the winter season?
Most of the attractions are open during the winter season, but some may be closed for refurbishment or maintenance.
4. Will it be cold during my visit to Disney in winter?
Yes, the temperatures during winter can be chilly, especially in the evenings and early mornings. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing and dress in layers.
5. Are there any special events during the winter season at Disney?
Yes, Disney offers special holiday-themed events during the winter season, including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays.
6. Do I need to make reservations in advance for restaurants during the winter season?
It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance for popular restaurants during the winter season, especially during the holidays.
7. Are there any discounts for visiting Disney during the winter season?
Yes, Disney may offer discounts on park tickets and resort accommodations during the winter season.
Closing Thoughts
We hope this FAQ has answered all your questions about visiting Disney during the winter season. Remember to dress warmly and take advantage of the special holiday events and discounts. Thank you for reading and we hope to see you at Disney soon!