Walt Disney World Basics: The Best Times to Visit
With over 50 million visitors annually, Walt Disney World is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. While there’s no “bad” time to visit, choosing the right season can help you tailor your experience. We’ll explore each season to understand what to expect in terms of crowd levels, weather, and special events.
Winter (December – February)
Crowds: Winter brings a mix of peak and quiet times. The holiday season (mid-December through early January) is one of the busiest times of the year. Expect high crowd levels, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, as families gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere. However, crowd levels dip significantly after the holiday season, particularly from mid-January to early February.
Weather: Winter in Florida is generally mild, with temperatures averaging 50–70°F. This is one of the most comfortable times to visit if you prefer cooler weather, with low humidity and minimal rainfall. However, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it’s wise to bring a light jacket or layers.
Special Events:
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: This seasonal event runs on select nights in December, featuring a holiday parade, themed fireworks, and exclusive character meet-and-greets.
Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT: Enjoy holiday-themed food booths, cultural holiday celebrations, and the Candlelight Processional.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Starting in mid-January, this event showcases visual and performing arts, along with culinary experiences inspired by artists.
Best Times to Visit in Winter: If you’re looking for lower crowds and comfortable weather, mid-January through early February is ideal. Avoid the peak holiday season if you prefer lighter crowds and shorter wait times.
Show off your Disney style with a classic Loungefly Mickey Mouse backpack, perfect for keeping your essentials close as you explore the parks.
Spring (March – May)
Crowds: Spring break season (March and early April) sees a surge in crowds as families flock to Disney for school vacations. However, crowd levels start to dip in late April and remain relatively low through May, making this an excellent time for those looking to avoid long lines.
Weather: Spring brings warmer temperatures, ranging from 60–85°F, with low humidity and comfortable conditions. Rain is generally less frequent, but you may encounter afternoon showers as the season progresses into May.
Special Events:
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: Running from March to early June, this event features stunning floral displays, topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and garden-themed entertainment.
Easter Celebrations: During Easter weekend, Magic Kingdom and other parks feature themed events and activities, including character meet-and-greets in festive attire.
Best Times to Visit in Spring: Late April through May is a sweet spot for comfortable weather and moderate crowds. You’ll also get to experience the Flower & Garden Festival’s beauty without the peak spring break rush.
Summer (June – August)
Crowds: Summer is one of the busiest times at Disney World, as families take advantage of school vacation. Expect high crowds from mid-June to mid-August, especially around the 4th of July holiday. However, late August tends to see a dip in crowd levels as schools resume.
Weather: Florida summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 90°F or higher. Afternoon thunderstorms are common but usually brief, providing a short break from the heat. Make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of indoor attractions to stay cool.
Special Events:
Independence Day Celebrations: On the 4th of July, Magic Kingdom and EPCOT offer spectacular fireworks displays.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival: This festival kicks off in mid-July and continues into the fall, offering food and drink options from around the world, along with cooking demonstrations and live entertainment.
Best Times to Visit in Summer: While summer is generally a peak season, visiting in late August can mean slightly lower crowds and less intense heat than earlier in the summer. Just be prepared for rain and take midday breaks if needed.
Beat the Florida heat and keep your skin safe with Sun Bum Original Sunscreen—your ultimate Disney park-day essential
Fall (September – November)
Crowds: Fall is an excellent time to visit if you’re hoping for lower crowds. September and early October typically have lower attendance levels, with a moderate increase in crowds toward Halloween. November is a unique month, with crowds picking up during Thanksgiving week but staying manageable before and after.
Weather: Fall weather in Orlando can vary, with September still feeling hot and humid, while October and November bring cooler temperatures in the 70s to 80s. Rain chances decrease as the season progresses, but early fall is still hurricane season, so it’s a good idea to stay updated on weather forecasts if traveling in September.
Special Events:
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Held on select nights from August through October, this popular event includes Halloween-themed parades, fireworks, and character meet-and-greets.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival: This festival continues through mid-November, allowing fall visitors to enjoy global food offerings and culinary demonstrations.
Holiday Celebrations Begin: By mid-November, Disney World starts its holiday celebrations, with seasonal decor and events popping up throughout the parks and resorts.
Best Times to Visit in Fall: September and early November are great times to enjoy lower crowds, pleasant weather, and seasonal events. Avoid Halloween week and Thanksgiving if you prefer shorter lines and a quieter experience.
Add a touch of magic to your Disney trip with these charming BaubleBar earrings, inspired by your favorite characters.
Tips for Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Plan Around School Holidays: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try to visit outside major school holidays like spring break, summer vacation, and the Christmas holiday season. Mid-week visits also tend to be less crowded compared to weekends.
Consider the Weather: Florida’s climate can be intense, so think about your tolerance for heat and humidity. Winter and spring offer the most comfortable weather, while summer can be challenging due to the high temperatures and humidity.
Decide If You Want to Experience a Festival: EPCOT hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the International Flower & Garden Festival in spring, the International Food & Wine Festival in late summer and fall, and the Festival of the Arts and Festival of the Holidays in winter. These events add unique experiences and dining options but can attract higher crowds.
Balance Special Events with Crowds: Special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offer exclusive entertainment and a unique atmosphere, but they can also draw large crowds. Attending these events on weekdays rather than weekends can help you avoid the heaviest attendance.
Take Advantage of Low-Crowd Seasons for Popular Attractions: If your main goal is to enjoy popular rides with shorter wait times, consider visiting during the quieter seasons, such as mid-January, early May, or September. These times offer a chance to experience more with fewer lines and less waiting.
Be Flexible with Your Schedule: Even within each season, crowd levels can vary. Use tools like crowd calendars to check predicted attendance levels for specific dates and adjust your plans to avoid the busiest times whenever possible.
Keep your devices powered all day at Disney World with an Anker portable charger—no more searching for outlets when there's magic to explore!
Choosing the best time to visit Walt Disney World depends on your personal preferences, whether you prioritize comfortable weather, low crowds, or seasonal events. With this seasonal breakdown, you can find the ideal time for your visit, ensuring that your Disney trip is filled with unforgettable moments rather than long waits and weather woes. Whenever you choose to go, Disney offers magical experiences year-round, so you’re sure to have a memorable vacation regardless of the season!