Walt Disney World is one of the most visited amusement parks in the country, and as such, there are only a few short periods when the parks are not quite as crowded as the rest of the year. Of course, Disney World is an exciting and wondrous place to visit any time of the year. However, for those visitors who would rather not stand in a lengthy line for an attraction, ride, or dining, I have a few suggestions for those times when you will find it a bit easier to navigate all four parks.
1. Lowest Crowd Times: January
Typically, January is one of the least crowded months of the year at Walt Disney World. The temperature is the coolest of the year with a few rain showers, so bring a lightweight jacket. Since the crowds are down, Disney takes advantage of this and schedules some ride and attraction refurbishments. Note: Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is Jan. 9-13, 2019, tens of thousands come to Disney for this event. Martin Luther King Jr Weekend coincides with the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship, Jan. 18-20,2019.
2.Lowest Crowd Times: February
The temperature in February begins to warm up, with a few rain showers, so bring that lightweight jacket, sweater, or hoodie for those cooler evenings. Crowds in February are generally lower just before President’s Day weekend. During the week is an excellent time to visit the parks. The first and last weeks of the month are the best. As crowds begin to pick up a little, especially on weekends, the refurbishments are fewer. Note: Disney Princess Half-Marathon Weekend is Feb. 21-24, 2019. This weekend is very busy in Disney World.
3.Lowest Crowd Times: March
The first week in March is the least crowded of the month. Since March is “Spring Break” month, you can expect larger than average crowds after the first week. Crowds are lower during the earlier part of the month. The crowds in March are still below the average, the temperatures are warmer with fewer rain showers, and ride refurbishments are very few, if any. Note: Cheerleading competitions are held in March. The UCA All-Star Championship is March 9-10, 2019, Ameri-Cheer and Ameri-Dance competitions are March 16-17, 2019. These weekends the park may have altered hours and the resorts and parks will be busy.
4.Lowest Crowd Times: April
The first two weeks in April are the busiest, mainly because it is normally the “Easter Season”, and draws more crowds. Usually after Easter Week, the crowds taper off. The weather during April is fantastic. With temperatures in the low 80’s during the day and lows in the mid to upper 60’s in the evenings and minimal precipitation. Most of the parks have Extended Magic Hours for Resort guests which is an added bonus! Note: April 4-7, 2019 is StarWars Rival Run Weekend.
5.Lowest Crowd Times: May
Crowds in May are generally average to above average during the first two weeks. This is the time to really enjoy Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival. Temperatures are warmer, with highs in the upper 80’s and lows in the 70’s with fewer than normal rain showers. During the month of May, all four parks begin opening earlier and staying open later. They also boast more Magic Hours.
6. Lowest Crowd Times: June
The first and second weeks of June are the best times to visit if you are trying to avoid the largest crowds. Even though there will be above average attendance, the first week of June is the least crowded of the summer months. June can be a hot month with highs in the 90’s, but the evenings are pleasant, with lows in the 70’s. There is a slightly higher chance of afternoon rain showers, but during the heat of the day, these showers can actually be quite refreshing.
7. Lowest Crowd Times: July
If you have ever visited the parks during the Summer months you know that July doesn’t really boast a “low crowd” for any of the Disney Parks. Schools across the United States are usually on break and families take advantage of this opportunity to not miss school. July 4th weekend is a huge blow out celebration at the parks. If you don’t mind crowds, this is a great time to visit and see an extra spectacular fireworks display!
8. Lowest Crowd Times: August
As schools begin to start their year, the number of families in the park slowly begins to lessen. But that Florida heat and humidity doesn’t! If you are prepared to sweat it out with the rest of the Disney-goers, the end of this month could be for you! Not only that, but Disney starts their Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) in August. If you love Halloween, this is a great jump on the Fall season! Note: GayDays Pride event is being held August 13-19, 2019. This incredibly large LGBQT event brings thousands to the Parks and Resorts.
9. Lowest Crowd Times: September
There are just a few really busy days in September. At the beginning of the month, North Eastern families try to take advantage of the Labor Day weekend before their schools go back after the holiday. This is also the weekend that the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival begins. The temperatures normally remain relatively hot, but begin cooling down by mid-September. Rain showers are not as common in September, so you might not need those ponchos after all. Watch the radar for those pesky hurricanes which require more than a poncho!
10.Lowest Crowd Times: October
October is a great month to visit Disney World, as far as crowds are concerned. That being said, Columbus Day weekend is generally busier than the other weekends. Consider attending the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party mid-week, when attendance is lower. Expect cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings and moderate rainfall mostly in the afternoons, lasting for short periods.
11.Lowest Crowd Times: November
Outside of Thanksgiving week, this is also one of the better months to visit Disney World. The crowds are lower, the weather is pleasant, and all the parks begin their transformation into a Christmas wonderland! Holiday decorations, Holiday parades, and the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party celebration begin. It’s a great time to ring in the holidays with family! Note: Disney’s Wine & Dine Half Marathon is usually held the first weekend in November.
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12.Lowest Crowd Times: December
The first two and a half weeks of December are the best time to visit Walt Disney World. The Holiday spirit can be found everywhere on Disney property, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a must-do, with crowds being lower during mid-week. The weather during December is pleasant during the day, and often quite cool in the evenings. A Disney hoodie or sweater would be a great souvenir! In recent years, the holidays have become very busy at Disney World. Consider this when booking your plans! Note: Pop Warner Cheerleading is usually the first weekend in December. The park crowd levels aren’t always affected, but the resorts may be. Check which resorts will be hosting the groups before booking your stay!
Of course, there are many circumstances that can affect a crowd. Special events, weather, or tour groups can often effect your planning. Ultimately, even if you have planned a vacation during times that are not “ideal” according to this list – never fear! A trip to Disney can be as magical as YOU choose to have it be. Take your time, enjoy the surroundings, and focus on making memories your family and friends!
BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best price for your vacation, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!