Walt Disney World Resort is known for a magical holiday season, but for many families, the combination of skyrocketing prices and overwhelming crowds made this year anything but enchanting. The week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve is historically one of the busiest times of the year, and 2024 was no exception. Crowds surged, causing hours-long waits, sold-out premium passes, and long lines for attractions that usually require little to no wait, including Spaceship Earth at EPCOT.
Crowds Overtake Spaceship Earth at EPCOT
EPCOT guest Tess (@fl_tess on TikTok) shared her experience visiting the park on December 28, 2024, and highlighted just how crowded it had become. Tess posted a video showing thousands of guests waiting in an unusually long line for Spaceship Earth, the Disney park‘s iconic Omnimover ride.
“It’s so busy we actually had to wait for our Lightning Lane for Spaceship Earth,” Tess said in her post, showing that the ride—which typically has a short wait—had a queue stretching into EPCOT’s World Celebration neighborhood.
@fl_tess We waited about 5 minutes for spaceship earth with a lightning lane. The actual wait was 55 minutes! #disney #epcot #spaceshipearth #epcotball #disneywaittimes #disneycrowds
Spaceship Earth wasn’t the only attraction hit by the holiday rush. Long lines extended across EPCOT and other Walt Disney World Resort parks, with wait times soaring for attractions typically considered quick stops. Commenters shared their own holiday crowd experiences, with @dana.rindler writing, “Parts of today, Muppet Vision had full capacity in the theaters for like an hour.” Another guest, @victoriarose1437, noted, “Star Tours is at FIFTY! I’ve never seen it more than 20. That’s insane.”
The Impact of Soaring Prices
In addition to the holiday crowds, families were faced with record-breaking costs. Disney Park Pass reservations sold out for several days, and the premium Lightning Lane Premier Pass, priced around $400, also reached full capacity. The high prices and limited availability made an already crowded experience even more stressful for many.
The holiday rush extended beyond the parks, with heavy traffic and congestion across Walt Disney World Resort. Guests who hoped for a magical holiday visit often found themselves waiting longer and spending more than expected.
Fans Warn Against Visiting During the Holidays
Many Disney Parks fans warned others to avoid visiting during the final week of December.
“Coming from a current [cast member], the absolute worst time ever to visit the parks is between Christmas and NYE,” said @madison.breanne.
“I do not mind being blocked out right now from my Annual Pass,” @maddy.blupone echoed.
Have you visited Walt Disney World Resort during the holiday season? Share your tips with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
