If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, there’s one thing you’ll definitely want to check before you book: the cheer competition schedule. Throughout the year, Disney hosts massive cheerleading events like the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship and the D2 Summit — and when these squads arrive, they bring a wave of energy that transforms the parks and resorts.
For some visitors, this vibrant atmosphere adds an extra layer of excitement. But for others, it can lead to longer wait times, packed hotels, and unexpected chaos. And sometimes, things get a little too intense — like one recent situation at a Disney hotel hot tub that ended with security shutting it down entirely.
Let’s dive into what happened — and why it’s got so many Disney fans talking.
The Hot Tub Incident That Went Viral
A now-viral Reddit post titled “Manage expectations during cheer comps” tells the story of one Disney guest’s unfortunate run-in with a large group of cheerleaders and their parents. What started as a simple disagreement over the hot tub’s jets quickly escalated into a full-blown standoff — with over 30 cheerleaders taking over the space, ignoring posted rules, and refusing to compromise.
The original post describes the incident in vivid detail:
“For those wondering about visiting WDW during cheer weeks — a cautionary tale. Be weary of the power of numbers.
What started as a simple dispute over whether the jets in the hot tub should be kept on quickly boiled over (literally) into an army of teeny boppers and their enthusiastic parents lording over the hot tub and getting the whole thing closed.
The sign for the hot tub clearly stated 16 and older, but the chaperone for one of the groups felt that as a 17-year-old, she could unilaterally allow her group to dictate the controls on the hot tub.
The adults tried to reason, “Just put your drinks somewhere where the water won’t get in them.” This was insufficient. “There’s a much larger pool over there where there are no invasive jets and bubbles.” Again, unacceptable. To be clear, no angry words were spoken, but one of the older girls felt strongly enough in her convictions to swear at the adults. This was apparently the hill they would die on.
It wasn’t until 30 or more cheerleaders had managed to squeeze into the hot tub — goaded on by their angry parents — that security followed by the facility manager showed up. Accusations of drunkenness and mean-spirited behavior were lobbed. In reality, it was mostly civil, at least as civil as a mob of 9-12-year-olds can be. Unfortunately, though, no compromise was reached, and security decided to close the hot tub.
If you choose to visit the parks and stay at nearby hotels while cheer competitions are going on, be prepared to have your vacation influenced by the needs of the many. And if you happen to like an active hot tub, muster the fortitude to have the jets managed by youngsters. Hopefully, your experience is more diplomatic.”
Manage expectations during cheer comps
byu/flashadvocate inWaltDisneyWorld
Why This Happens During Cheer Weeks
Disney’s cheerleading competitions attract thousands of participants and their families. Teams often stay at Disney’s value resorts, like the All-Star Resorts, but the impact of their presence can be felt across the entire property.
These events bring:
- Bigger crowds: Expect longer wait times for rides and restaurants.
- High energy: Spontaneous cheers and chants aren’t uncommon — even in ride queues.
- Busy pools and common areas: As the hot tub incident shows, shared amenities can quickly become overcrowded.
While many teams are respectful and focused on their competitions, the sheer number of participants makes it hard to avoid disruptions.
What Other Guests Are Saying
The hot tub story sparked a flood of comments from Disney fans who’ve had similar experiences.
One Orlando local shared:
“I really feel bad for people who have to go during cheer comps. We are local and don’t always pay attention to when they are going on, but once we get out there and realize, it’s usually a shorter day for us. I also used to work the shuttle buses for these comps, and I can attest — some of the most awful behavior from parents and kids alike.”
Others chimed in to say they actively avoid booking Disney trips during cheer competition weeks, citing the overwhelming crowds and occasional rowdiness.
How to Avoid the Cheer Crowds
If you’re hoping for a more relaxed Disney vacation, there are a few ways to steer clear of the cheer competition chaos:
- Check the event calendar: Competitions like UCA and D2 Summit have set dates — avoid booking during those times if you want a quieter experience.
- Choose your resort wisely: Value resorts often host large groups. Opting for moderate or deluxe resorts can give you a bit more peace and quiet.
- Plan early mornings and late nights: Teams tend to follow competition schedules, so the parks may be less crowded at off-peak hours.
Disney World is a magical place, but timing your visit can make or break your experience. Cheer competition weeks bring an undeniable energy — and sometimes, a bit of chaos.
If you thrive on excitement and love being part of a high-energy crowd, you might enjoy the cheer-filled atmosphere. But if you’re dreaming of a more laid-back trip, it’s worth planning around these events.
And if you do find yourself sharing space with a cheer squad takeover? Just hope you don’t end up in a hot tub showdown.
