Disappointing photos show what it's really like to visit Disney World around the holidays

Timothy MooreNov 15, 2024, 21:54 IST

Crowds, high ticket prices, and costly add-ons all come with visiting Disney World at the end of the year.Timothy Moore

Christmas is my favorite holiday, and spending it at Disney World can be a magical experience.
However, long lines, major crowds, and expensive tickets can easily dismantle the holiday spirit.

The first time I saw the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios) in 2000, I was hooked on the magic of Disney World at Christmastime.

As an adult, however, I've quickly learned that expectations don't always match reality.

The parks are decked out in decorations for all of November and December, and it can be really magical to walk down Main Street as fake snow showers down. On the other hand, because it's such a popular time to visit, things can be a little hectic.

I went to Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot at the end of the year and captured some of the less glamorous parts of celebrating Christmas at Disney World.

Expect long lines at all four parks.

Jungle Cruise gets a special holiday overlay at the end of the year.Timothy Moore

Ticket prices can get really expensive around the holidays.

Crowds gathered outside Magic Kingdom and at the ticket booths.Timothy Moore

Prepare for longer food waits at quick-service spots.

Crowds crossing a bridge at Magic Kingdom near Cosmic Rays.Timothy Moore

Queue up early for Disney-provided transportation.

The bus lines at the resort were long during our recent stay.Timothy Moore

It's hard to get a good spot for the daytime parades.

"Festival of Fantasy" runs year-round at Magic Kingdom.Timothy Moore

The seasonal parades and shows are totally packed.

You can't always see everything through the crowds.Timothy Moore

Crowds for non-seasonal shows can also get hectic.

"Festival of the Lion King" runs year-round at Animal Kingdom.Timothy Moore

The fireworks crowds are even worse.

It's hard to see all the castle projections from the back of Main Street.Timothy Moore

The ticketed Christmas party comes with some freebies, but they might not be worth the high cost for you.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party offers guests some free treats.Timothy Moore

Festive snacks look cute on Instagram, but they're pricey.

The $17.99 Lock, Shock, and Barrel sundae at Magic Kingdom.Timothy Moore

The Christmas-themed cocktails also cost a pretty penny.

The seasonal drinks at Jock Lindsey's Holiday Bar cost between $13 and $27.Timothy Moore

Still, Disney World is pretty magical this time of year, and I have tips to make the most of it.

There are ways to plan ahead and beat some of the bigger crowds.Timothy Moore

Rope-drop the parks and use Genie+ if you can.

It's worth it to get to the parks early.Timothy Moore

If rides are your priority, stay in the parks as late as you can.

Wait times are the shortest at night while people are watching the shows.Timothy Moore

Plan to chill out at your resort on weekend days.

If you're staying on the Disney property, plan a rest day for Saturday or Sunday.Timothy Moore

We spent $400 a night at a luxury lodge in South Africa. Our all-inclusive stay included epic safari tours and much more.

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