[gemdisney]

I know it's a bit early but I plan way ahead and LOVE all things Disney! I just can't help myself!
We are headed to Disney in December. We have never been later than October 10th. What do we expect? What should we pack for clothes? The CM say that the water parks are open and that they never really "close". But honestly is it something that is really done? How cold does it get, will we really go swimming?
We are totally doing the MVMCP but what other things are a must for this time of year?
We are starting the vacation in Daytona for a few days then coming over to Disney Nov 30th and staying for 8 days. Any suggestions are welcome.
Thanks!
Grace<><

[MissDisney]

We are going in December, too, and I have the ADRs all lined up, ready to call in at the 180-day mark! Go ahead and wallow in that planning... it's part of vacation! The best part, really!

OK, for your questions --

What do we expect? You can expect to see Christmas decor that will astound and amaze! Plus, Christmas music and holiday theming all around!

What should we pack for clothes? Check right before you go. You might only need a fleece for evening, but maybe even a full coat and mittens. During the daytime, you could be sweating in shorts, or shivering in a coat. Hard to say!

The CM say that the water parks are open and that they never really "close". But honestly is it something that is really done? It seems like one or the other water park is closed for rehab during the winter. But the other one will be open, and the water will be heated.

How cold does it get, will we really go swimming? It can get cold, but all WDW pools are heated for swimming. While it may be too cold outside for the adults to be really comfy, the kids might not even notice (mine never do!)

We are totally doing the MVMCP but what other things are a must for this time of year? You just have to devote some time to resort-hopping to see the holiday decorations, and be sure to hit the Gingerbread House at GF. Also, see the Candlelight Processional at Epcot, a free event that can be seen by itself or as part of a dinner package. Also, the Osborne Lights, if they are having them, at Studios.

[gemdisney]

What's the dinner package for the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. I think that is something we would be interested in. I totally didn't even think about resort hopping to check out the decor. I knew that from watching the travel channel. I think what I'll do is plan it around what resort we aren't eating at this visit.
Any other help?

[jo-jo]

We were there early dec and it was warm to very warm during the day but rather chilly at night. One evening after ohana we went to the beach to see the fireworks at 9 and it was cold and windy. I had my 2 yr DGD (who was already wearing a light jacket) wrapped in a light blanket (back in the day we called them receiving blankets, if that helps) and then wrapped in a plastic bag type poncho. She looked liked a hot dog.

[MickeyMcFizzle]

December is a bit unpredictable in weather, so make sure you pack some layers - it makes it easier to customize to the weather.
Enjoy it! Its never to early to start planning!

[lovemysons]

You must see the Osborne Lights at the Studios too!

The Candlelight Processional runs 3 times a night, at Epcot, and it is a re-telling of the Christmas story. Its wonderful! Go here for more information: Candlelight Processional at Epcot

[Cavey]

Early December is great! Whether is hit or miss. We've been there and gone swimming. We've been there in winter coats. So just prepare for everything, and I would not pay extra for water park options, because it's just too if-y.

[KingOMiami]

Also, pack some ponchos.

DW & I have gone the past 2 Decembers and both times it rained. This past December it also dropped down into the 30's one night and the Mrs. said never again would we go in December lol

She doesn't like the cold or rain as I think y'all could tell. How I was able to get her to agree to a January trip when the chances for the weather to be even colder and more often I have no idea but I sure ain't complaining cuz I happen to love cooler temps myself lol

[gemdisney]

Yeah my DH and DS like the coller weather. Me, wish I lived in FL so those were the coolest temps I felt. I was freezing when we came home in October this year. I'll check out that sight and the Osborne Lights too!
So if we didn't get the water parks added to the tickets is it better to pay for the Disney Quest seperately? For a 5 day pass we'd probably only get 1 visit anyway, right?

[DisneyTeacher]

We were there this past December and the days were beautiful, I wore jeans and a T shirt under a pull over jacket or sweatshirt and my DH wore shorts and a sweatshirt. Nights were cool and we I usually pulled a jacket on over a sweatshirt and was happy.

[gemdisney]

I shared this info with Mom because the parents are coming as well. She's turning into everyone else and telling me we have plenty of time to talk about this. Kind of like it just wasn't important right now! Is she losing her touch? She's the one who brought this love for Disney to me as I have passed it onto my DD. What's going on?
On a beter note she did agree that the Candlelight Procession was something she wanted to do.
Has anyone done the dinner and show thing at Le Cellier's? I hear it's practicly impossible to get into. I'm nervous about that and it looks like we'd need a 5:00 or earlier dinner time to get there in enough time for preffered seating. Anyone have any feedback here.
I have to check out the Osborne Lights b/c I'm not sure how it all goes. On everynight or certain nights, tickets needed or whatever. That's where I'm headed now!

[lovemysons]

Originally Posted by gemdisney

I shared this info with Mom because the parents are coming as well. She's turning into everyone else and telling me we have plenty of time to talk about this. Kind of like it just wasn't important right now! Is she losing her touch? She's the one who brought this love for Disney to me as I have passed it onto my DD. What's going on?
On a beter note she did agree that the Candlelight Procession was something she wanted to do.
Has anyone done the dinner and show thing at Le Cellier's? I hear it's practicly impossible to get into. I'm nervous about that and it looks like we'd need a 5:00 or earlier dinner time to get there in enough time for preffered seating. Anyone have any feedback here.
I have to check out the Osborne Lights b/c I'm not sure how it all goes. On everynight or certain nights, tickets needed or whatever. That's where I'm headed now!

No, its not impossible to get into, as long as you call to make the reservation as soon as they open up. Its in the third tier for pricing, so it doesn't sell out as fast as the first and second tiers, since they are cheaper.
Osborne Lights goes on every night as well, it is not a ticketed event, but you do have to have park admission to see them. They are spectacular!