Disney World in December is festive, mild and very busy, so what to book early matters as much as when you go. Expect holiday decorations, special seasonal events and big crowds over Christmas week and New Year's, with calmer stretches in the first part of the month. Book your home base, dining and any must-do experiences well ahead and your trip will feel relaxed instead of rushed.
Crowds in December
December is not one season but three. The first week or two are usually the quietest, because school is still in session. The middle of the month builds as breaks begin, and the days around Christmas and New Year's are among the busiest of the whole year. Check Disney's website for park hours and event dates, since they change from year to year.
Weather in December
Central Florida is a great place to be in winter. Days are usually mild and sunny, while mornings and evenings can feel cool, and a cold snap now and then is possible. Pack layers: shorts and tees for the afternoon, a light jacket for early starts and late fireworks, plus a poncho for the occasional shower. After the parks, a heated pool is a real treat, and the lagoon pool at Windsor Hills is heated.
What to book first
- Your place to stay: holiday weeks sell out first. See our guide to booking a vacation home for Christmas week.
- Park tickets and any reservations: check Disney's website for what your dates require.
- Special dining and experiences: popular tables fill up early in the holiday season.
- Flights and a rental car: prices rise close to the holidays, and there is no resort shuttle to Disney.
How to handle busy December days
Arrive early, pick one or two priorities per day and plan a midday break. Our Christmas at Disney World with kids guide covers the seasonal extras in more detail. For a timeline of everything else, see what to book 6, 3 and 1 months out.
A simple packing list for a December trip
- Light layers and a jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- Swimsuits for the heated lagoon pool and other pool time
- Comfortable walking shoes, since park days add up fast
- Ponchos, sunscreen and refillable water bottles
- A small daypack with snacks to avoid long waits for food
Packing for both warm afternoons and cooler evenings means nobody is stuck uncomfortable halfway through a long day. Having a washer and dryer or laundry plan in your rental helps you pack lighter.
Why a vacation home works in December
With big crowds, a comfortable base pays off. A rental gives you a full kitchen for easy breakfasts, room for a big family and a quiet place to rest between long park days. Windsor Hills is a gated resort with condos, townhouses and private-pool homes, and Disney property is about 5 to 10 minutes away, with Magic Kingdom around 10 to 12 minutes depending on traffic.
On a break day you can enjoy the lagoon pool, the Sir Windsor AquaVenture water park and the splash areas, or head to the clubhouse, games room, gym and courts. Booking direct with an owner is simple, and holiday dates go quickly, so browse Windsor Hills rentals early and lock in your dates.
