The Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World Florida (2024 Guide)

Thinking about a trip to Walt Disney World? Picking the right time to visit can make a big difference. Throughout the year, Disney changes – there’s different weather, events, and how busy it is.

This guide will help you see what each month looks like, so you can choose the best time for your trip.

January

Weather at Disney World in January:

January is one of Orlando’s cooler months. You can expect daytime highs of around 21°C and night-time lows dropping to a chilly 10°C. Pack a mix of light layers and a cosy jumper or jacket for the cooler evenings.

Crowd Levels:

After the rush of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the crowds significantly diminish. This makes the latter half of the month a good time to visit, especially after the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

Disney World Events in January:

Apart from the Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations, January is relatively quiet in terms of special events. However, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks off in January, celebrating visual, culinary, and performing arts.

February

Weather:

February sees a gradual warm-up, with average highs hovering around 23°C. Evenings can still be cool, so it’s best to bring some warm clothing just in case.

Crowd Levels:

The first half of the month tends to be quieter, but crowd levels rise around Presidents Day weekend.

Disney World Events in February:

Presidents Day celebrations are a highlight. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Arts continues throughout the month.

March

Weather:

March heralds the beginning of spring. Daytime temperatures average around 26°C, though there can still be variability, so pack both shorts and trousers.

Crowd Levels:

March sees an influx of visitors due to spring break. The exact weeks can vary, but expect larger crowds and longer wait times at attractions.

Disney World Events in March:

The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival begins in March, offering beautiful garden displays, outdoor kitchens, and live entertainment.

April

Weather:

Consistently warm, with highs often in the 27°C range. It’s a pleasant time to explore the parks.

Crowd Levels:

The spring break crowds can linger into early April. It’s a popular month, so plan accordingly.

Disney World Events in April:

EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival continues, with special Easter events added into the mix.

May

Weather at Disney World in May:

The warmth continues to intensify as summer approaches, with daytime temperatures averaging around 31°C. It’s wise to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Crowd Levels:

May starts off reasonably calm, but as you edge closer to Memorial Day, you’ll notice an uptick in visitors.

Disney World Events in May:

Star Wars fans rejoice! May 4th is considered Star Wars Day (“May the Fourth be with you”). Expect special events and character appearances at Hollywood Studios. Towards the end of the month, Memorial Day weekend heralds summer’s arrival with extended park hours and festivities.

June

Weather:

June is hot and humid, with averages around 33°C. Thunderstorms become more frequent, so pack a poncho or umbrella.

Crowd Levels:

Schools in the US are out, meaning families flock to the parks. Expect consistent crowds throughout the month.

Disney World Events in June:

With summer in full swing, the parks regularly host summer-themed events and extended evening entertainment, including fireworks.

July

Weather:

Peak summer hits in July. Temperatures hover around 34°C. Rain and thunderstorms are a common occurrence in the afternoon.

Crowd Levels:

July is peak tourist season, with the week of the 4th being especially crowded due to Independence Day celebrations.

Disney World Events in July:

The 4th of July sees spectacular firework displays across all parks, especially the Magic Kingdom, with patriotic parades and themed merchandise.

August

Weather:

August remains hot and humid, mirroring July’s climate. However, towards the end of the month, there’s a slight cool-down.

Crowd Levels:

The start of August remains busy, but as American schools start up again towards the month’s end, crowd levels drop slightly.

Disney World Events in August:

EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival often begins in late August, offering visitors a culinary journey around the world.

September

Weather:

September sees daytime highs of around 32°C. It’s also the peak of hurricane season, so be prepared for rain.

Crowd Levels:

September is one of the cheapest times to visit due to the reduced crowds, especially after Labour Day weekend.

Disney World Events in September:

The Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicks off in Magic Kingdom, even if Halloween is still a couple of months away.

October

Weather:

The heat begins to mellow out, with average highs of 29°C. The evenings can be cooler, so light layers are a good idea.

Crowd Levels:

The parks get busier as the month progresses, especially during the Columbus Day weekend.

Disney World Events in October:

Halloween celebrations are in full swing. Magic Kingdom hosts multiple Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties throughout the month, and other parks also join in with themed decorations and events.

November

Weather:

November Weather in Orlando is cooler and more comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 25°C.

Crowd Levels:

Early November is relatively quiet, but there’s a significant crowd surge during Thanksgiving week.

Disney World Events in November:

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival continues. By mid-month, the parks begin their transformation for the holiday season, with special events, parades, and shows celebrating Christmas.

December

Weather at Disney World in December:

December welcomes the winter chill, with daytime highs around 23°C. While this is mild for many visitors, Floridians find it cold, so don’t be surprised to see locals bundled up! Evenings can get cool, so pack a jacket or jumper.

Crowd Levels:

Early December is one of the cheapest times to go as the crowd levels are manageable. However, the closer you get to Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the busier it becomes. These festive days see some of the highest crowd levels of the year.

Disney World Events in December:

The magic of the holiday season is in full effect. Each park, especially Magic Kingdom, is adorned with festive decorations.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a ticketed event that offers special parades, shows, and snow on Main Street, U.S.A. The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays showcases traditions from around the world, complete with special food and entertainment.

As you approach New Year’s Eve, expect grand celebrations and firework displays to welcome the new year.

Conclusion:

To wrap up, Walt Disney World has something special all year round.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet time to visit, keen on a certain event, or just hunting for a good deal, it’s all about finding the right fit for you. Use this guide to help plan your perfect Disney trip.

Remember, it’s all about having fun and making memories!

Read More:

• Best Places to Buy Orlando Attraction Tickets for your Holiday
• The Best Water Park Hotels in Florida for an Unforgettable Holiday

Frequently Asked Questions

Dreaming of Disney World from across the pond? We’ve got your top questions covered.

When is the best time to visit Disney World for fewer crowds?

The best times for fewer crowds are early January and early September.

Does Disney World have a Halloween event?

Yes, Disney World hosts the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in October.

When is the cheapest time to go to Disney World?

You’ll find cheaper rates after New Year’s Eve until just before spring break and between Labor Day Weekend and Thanksgiving Week.

When is the busiest time to visit Walt Disney World?

The peak times during the holiday season are around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

How can I save money on Disney World Tickets?

To save money on Disney World Tickets opt for UK-specific ‘Magic Tickets’ which are available from sites such as AttractionTix and FloridaTix.

What’s the weather like at Disney World in early December?

Early December offers mild and pleasant weather.

Do UK visitors need a visa to visit Disney World in Orlando?

No visa is needed, but UK visitors do require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for short visits.

What’s the flight duration from the UK to Orlando?

Typically, a direct flight from the UK to Orlando takes around 9 hours.

What’s the average cost for a UK family to visit Disney World?

While costs vary, a UK family can expect to budget between £3,000 to £5,000 for a week’s stay, including flights, tickets, and accommodation.

Where can I find affordable hotels near Disney World?

For budget-friendly options, consider checking out Hotels Near Orlando International Airport and in Kissimmee.

Are there UK travel agents that specialise in Disney World trips?

Absolutely! Many travel agents in the UK, such as TUI and Virgin Holidays, offer specialised Disney World packages.