Now, you know how we go to Disney World every day, right? Well, even though we go so often, there are still things that surprise us.
Magic Kingdom
We’re not talking about new treats, or unexpected experiences we might encounter while at the parks. What we are talking about is the crowds, or rather, the specific lack there of on this one random week. We’re not complaining about it. On the contrary, we love it, so let’s talk about why this week might be the sweet spot for your next trip, plus what you need to know before you pack your ears and head out.
If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through Cinderella Castle without bumping into half the world’s population, I think we found the week that might just be your golden ticket — the week before Thanksgiving! It’s proving to be one of the best times to visit Disney World, and we are obsessed with how downright EMPTY the parks feel right now.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
Seriously, the longest wait we’ve seen so far is 40 minutes. Only forty minutes! And no, this wasn’t during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or any other special ticketed evening event that clears the parks earlier in the day. This was just a regular old, crowd-free midweek Disney day.
Why This Week Is Pure Magic
Disney pros might already know this, but back in the paper FastPass days (yes, we’re going WAY back), the week before Thanksgiving was traditionally one of the slowest weeks of the year. It was like a well-kept secret among seasoned park-goers. Before there were runDisney race weekends, EPCOT festivals for every season, or the buzz of Lightning Lane strategizing, this week was blissfully quiet.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
But honestly, it still makes sense. Most families are saving their vacation days for Thanksgiving week when they can combine travel with the holiday. Also, with kids still in school and no major holidays mid-November, this week flies under the radar. It’s the perfect little pocket of low crowds and even lower stress.
How Empty Are We Talking?
Okay, picture this: you’re in Magic Kingdom. You’ve just walked off Pirates of the Caribbean after a less-than 10-minute wait. Next, you’re heading toward Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, where the posted wait time is 20 minutes.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
Even the big hitters like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Space Mountain are clocking in at 40 minutes tops. This is practically unheard of in today’s Disney World, where we’ve grown accustomed to triple-digit wait times for the most popular attractions.
Why We’re Loving This Timing
As you can understand, this kind of crowd level means less stressing and more enjoying. You can take your time soaking in all the festive holiday decor and snapping photos with no random strangers in the background. You might even find yourself with enough time to just wander around with a churro in hand, marveling at how peaceful it feels.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
Also because the parks are less crowded, you don’t have to sprint from ride to ride to cram everything in. You can take a leisurely stroll through the parks, or enjoy a midday break without FOMO. It’s a reminder that there are still times where Disney World can feel magical and relaxing even without the hustle and bustle we’re used to.
A Quick Weather PSA
Before you book that flight and start dreaming of no-wait rides, there’s one thing you need to know: the weather this week is as unpredictable as Virtual Queue availability at 7 a.m. Some folks are rocking tank tops and flip-flops, while others are bundled up in jackets and pants.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
Florida in November is the ultimate wildcard. One minute it’s sunny and 80 degrees, and the next it’s breezy and chilly enough to make you rethink your life choices. So, pack smart! You’ll want to Bring layers, a light jacket, comfy shoes, and maybe even a poncho because, well, it’s Florida.
Mark Your Calendar for Next Year
Empty Disney parks are the stuff of dreams, and this week is turning those dreams into reality. So if you’re already mapping out your 2025 Disney World adventures, you might want to go ahead and pencil in the week before Thanksgiving.
Week Before Thanksgiving Crowds
Until then, make sure to follow along with Disney Food Blog, as we are always on the lookout for the latest Disney news!
NEWS: Disney World Extends Hours in Preparation for Thanksgiving Crowds
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Growing up, we always did our Disney vacations in April, when we had school vacation. It was always hot and sometimes busy (although “busy” back then was nothing like it is now)
In 2005 we switched it up and went in November, the week before Thanksgiving and it was amazing! Very low crowds, perfect weather! We had the best trip!
In 2019 we planned a November trip for 2020, which ended up not happening (thank you Covid 🫤) but we ended up going November 2021. Same week, just before Thanksgiving. I picked that week specifically for the low crowds we experienced in the past. What I didn’t anticipate was all the pandemic revenge travelers! The crowds were insane! I was not mentally prepared for that at all! Lol!
We went in February for 2023 & 2024 and again, pretty heavy crowds.
I’m glad to hear this year my “sweet spot” week was back to it’s low crowds! Of course I can’t go that week for the next few years (high school kids football season) but if the trend continues I’ll definitely be visiting that week in the future 😀
This week, the week of Thanksgiving has been busy. Last week had great times, but this has had longer time with several hours times on many of the bug rides.