We always warn our readers about the intense crowds that flock to Disney World throughout the holiday season.
Magic Kingdom during the holidays
With all the beautiful decor, tasty treats, and celebrations — it’s hard not to join in! The holiday season is the most magical time of the year for many, and so a lot of folks find it worth it to brave those crowds for some magical holiday cheer with the Mouse. Yes, including us. Well, it’s Christmas Day, which is like, THE busiest of busy days at Disney World. And where are we headed? Magic Kingdom. Come with us to check out the CROWDS.
We knew it was going to be a busy day before our heads hit the pillow the night before, alright? However, we STILL weren’t fully prepared for these crowds. The lines security at the TTC were already pretty backed up by 9AM.
Security line
The line moved fairly quickly, and then the lines for the Monorail and Ferryboats weren’t too bad!
Line for Monorail
We were very surprised too that lines to get into the park didn’t take us long at all! Before we knew it, we were in the park and checking out the crowds on Main Street, U.S.A.
Main Street U.S.A. Crowds
While crowds were definitely intense, it wasn’t too terrible.
Not TOO bad!
However, the Starbucks line was pretty intense! It is cloudy and rainy today, so it looks like lots of folks were seeking a warm drink to start the day.
Starbucks Line
The good news is that they somewhat dispersed after folks headed into the different lands.
Tomorrowland Crowds
When noon rolled around, we were very excited to see Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.
Crowds ready to see the parade!
Unfortunately, the persistent rain canceled the show, but we got to see the Rainy Day Cavalcade instead! At this time, no other parade times have been announced as canceled.
Rainy Day Cavalcade
After the cavalcade, the rain started to taper off, so we decided it was time to check some wait times. While they were certainly high, they weren’t too terrible for it being Christmas day!
©Disney
Keep in mind that crowds will get more intense between Christmas and New Year’s Day, so if you’re visiting between now and then, you may higher crowd levels than we’re seeing today. We’ll continue to keep you all updated with more Disney news, and we hope that you’ll stick around for more. Have a very happy holidays!
Looking for holiday activities in Disney World? Click here!
DON'T MISS A MOMENT
OF HOLIDAY MAGIC
Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World.
It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including:
- The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season
- How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!)
- ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM.
- And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat!
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MORE Disney World Holiday INFO!
Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays
Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights
Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events
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Are you at Disney World for Christmas? Let us know in the comments!
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It is absolutely the most miserable time of the year to go. We made the mistake one year and left early after the second day. Incredibly long wait time for everything, elbow to elbow crowds, strollers and scooters ramming into you constantly, and just an overall not magical experience at all. I can’t imagine people actually enjoying it.