Disney Christmas Decor 2012: When to Visit?
The holiday season at Walt Disney World and Disneyland is a magical time, where the parks transform into winter wonderlands with dazzling lights, festive decorations, and a host of special events. If you're planning a visit to see the Disney Christmas decor in 2012, timing is crucial to experience the enchantment in its full splendor. Here’s a guide to help you decide when to visit for the ultimate festive experience.
When Does the Holiday Season Begin?
Disneyland and Walt Disney World begin their holiday transformation typically:
- Disneyland Resort: Begins around early November. This includes decorations, the Candlelight Processional, and holiday themed parades like "A Christmas Fantasy Parade".
- Walt Disney World: Starts in mid-November, with decorations going up in Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays and Candlelight Processional are also highlights.
Both parks aim to have their decorations fully in place by mid to late November, ready for Thanksgiving week.
Key Dates to Consider
Here are some key dates and events to keep in mind for planning your visit:
| Event | Park | Approximate Dates 2012 |
|---|---|---|
| Candlelight Processional | Disneyland | Early December |
| Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party | Magic Kingdom | Early November to Early January |
| Holiday Fantasy Parade | Disneyland | Mid-November to Early January |
| Candlelight Processional | EPCOT | Late November to December 30 |
🎄 Note: Exact dates for these events can vary slightly each year, so keep an eye on the official Disney calendars for the most accurate information.
Best Times for Crowds and Decor
To avoid peak crowds while still enjoying the holiday decor:
- Before Thanksgiving: The parks are less crowded, but the holiday decor might not be entirely in place.
- Weekdays in Late November: After Thanksgiving but before schools go on winter break, which tends to be less busy.
- December 1st to December 15th: The decorations are fully up, but crowd levels can fluctuate. Early December weekdays are often quieter.
However, if you wish to experience:
- Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party or the Candlelight Processional, these events require separate tickets and typically sell out early.
Things to Keep in Mind
When planning your visit:
- Weather: Florida and Southern California can experience mild to cool temperatures in December, with occasional rain.
- Holiday Events: Many of the special holiday events require additional tickets, so book these early.
- Decor and Entertainment: The decor is mostly permanent, but certain performances and attractions might have different operating hours.
- Crowd Management: Disney often uses crowd control measures like FastPass+ and Extra Magic Hours to manage the flow of guests during peak times.
💡 Note: While the parks may be more crowded during the holidays, the experience can be incredibly rewarding for those who embrace the magic.
Maximizing Your Visit
Here are some strategies to make the most of your visit:
- Early Entry: Utilize Disney’s early entry options if available for your stay.
- Late Night:
The holiday season at Disney is a unique time, where the blend of Disney magic with festive cheer creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you choose to visit during a time of lesser crowds or dive headfirst into the busiest and most festive periods, Disney’s Christmas decor in 2012 will provide a picturesque backdrop for your holiday memories.
When is the best time to see the Christmas decorations at Disney in 2012?
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The best time to see the Christmas decorations in 2012 at Disney would be from mid-November through early January, when the parks are fully decorated. For a balance of crowd levels and decorations, visiting in late November or the first two weeks of December could be ideal.
Do I need separate tickets for holiday events at Disney?
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Yes, some special holiday events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or the Candlelight Processional require separate tickets, which can sell out quickly.
Is there a good time to visit when the parks are less crowded during the holidays?
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Weekdays in late November or the first half of December are often less crowded than the peak periods around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
How do I plan my visit around Disney’s holiday entertainment?
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Plan your day around the times for holiday parades, fireworks, and special events. Utilize Disney’s official calendars, make dining reservations early, and consider the FastPass+ system if available to manage your time effectively.
