[tmcquaid]

After reading all of the posts, we decided to buy tickets for MVMCP while we're there in December. The tickets aren't exactly inexpensive and we wanted to make sure it was something that our girls (3 and 5) would enjoy. Now that I've picked up the 2003 unofficial guide I'm starting to worry. The book has testimonials from people that said it was way too crowded, they couldn't really see the parade and that they weren't able to get on any of the rides because of the lines. Will I be sorry I bought the tickets????

[jwdj4lfe]

Hey tmcquaid! When I went to disney last dec. I went to MVMCP. I do agree with the book, it does get verrrry crowded. I only went on space mountain and buzz lightyears space ranger spin when we were there, but it was by my choice! Disney world is soooooo beautiful during the christmas season, especially the magic kingdom! I know you've heard that a billion times already but it really truthfully is. The reason why i didnt go on that much rides is becuase i just walked around with my family looking at all the christmas decorations, and listening to the carols they play thru out the park. Its so pretty i would pay for MVMCP just to look at the decorations alittle while longer! If your going for the rides, dont go b/c the lines are very long, we never even got to take our free picture. But its a great family bonding time and where else do you get to see it snow on main street??
Joe:)

[tmcquaid]

Thanks for your input! Did you have any trouble seeing the parade? Or is it just like any other time you're fighting or camping out for space to see one of the Disney parades???

[trishb]

I loved MVMCP! But....I didn't have kids or a curfew. Plus, parades and shows are not my thing. DH and I stayed away from the hot spots and got to ride the rides all night with no lines. The biggest benefit was late at night, when all of the people with families were leaving. I just stood there, staring at the lights and beautiful decorations.
Now that I have a little boy, who likes his bed time...I'm not sure it is such a good idea (unless I talk DH into getting a baysitter).:weird:

[dab]

I think it depends on when you go. The first 2 weeks of December are fine - a little more crowded than daytime hours but definately not horrible. The parade is probably viewed by more than Spectromagic or Share a Dream. Just pick out a spot about an hour or so before the parade and you and spouse trade off with the kids keeping them entertained (rides, shopping, snacks etc...) while the other "saves" the spot for the parade. We always parked the stroller horizontally along the curb and then sat next to it to save a few spaces. You have to watch the ones who try to squeeze you out close to parade time. Some people just act like your kids aren't even there. I consider it a must do if we are there the 1st 2 wks of December. If I were going later, I'm sure there would be a larger crowd. Don't sweat it! It is a wonderful experience for all. Just a tip- You may want to skip going to a park that day. Just play, shop, rest, MAKE the kids take a LATE & LONG NAP. My then 3yr old napped from 3-5:30. Then head to MK at least 30 min. before party time. Everyone gets there at the same time and the entrance gets jammed! Once in, head straight to popular attractions to get your favs. out of the way and then just enjoy the night! Don't forget to get your family photo taken... it's free!

[Goofy1]

We fly into Orlando on the the 20th of December to start our Mickey vacation. This happens to be the last night for the MVMCP.
We will only be buying the 5 day Hopper Pass and we weren't planning on using our travel day to go into the park.
If we buy the MVMCP pass, does this include the park entry as well or is it just entry to the party? If park entry as well, then we wouldn't have to use up a day of our pass.

Wondering ???

Goofy1

[mickey]

Goofy1, it is my understanding that for MVMCP, there is a seperate admission ticket required. If you use your park hopper that day, it is still good for the party, assuming that you purchase the seperate ticket for that as well. (i.e. you need two tickets)

[Goofy1]

Ok. Just so that I am clear. .....

If I don't use the hopper pass, I would have to buy a pass to get into Magic Kindom then the pass to get into the MVMCP ?

I would have though the MVMCP pass would give acces to the park and the party as the park is closed at 5:00 to the general public anyhow.

Could be an expensive evening otherwise.
Not even sure if there are any more tickets to the MVMCP anyhow.

Goofy1
:dazed

[mickey]

Yes, what you said is correct. For more information, you can call (407) WDW-MAGIC.

[disneycouple30]

Th4e Xmas party tickeks is for the party only. I know it seem a little expensive but depending on the day you go it allow you to have alot of fun. With the tickets you can get a family portrait with a xmas background and alot of free hot choclate and cookies plus a nice soviner pin. Since you are arriving on the 20th, you didn't say what time, if it after noon by the time you get to the hotel the tickets are worth it. This will allow you time to get the kids to take a nap and be ready for the party. If you get PS for that night for 6:00 PM you will be allow in before the rest of the crowd. This will allow you to eat and be ready to hit the rides before the majority of the crown hit the ride. I suggest you go directly to Winne the Pooh ride first. This get crowded within the first 20 mins each night. Then Peter Pan. The best place to watch the parade is getting a rocking chair in front of Liberty Dining hall and then watch it from there. Don't even try to get a place on Main street. It will be lined up at least an hour before the parade. Most night they have two parades. Just remember that the park is open until 1 AM. That along time for 3 and 5 years old to stay awake. The parade alone is not worth the price of tickets. If you had 10 yrs old they would be putting you to bed. The next morning plan on sleeping in or be ready for ill temper kids

[Goofy1]

Thank you for the opinions.

We will have to give that some thought. We will be in around noon on the 20th and I know the kids will be wired to go. I have 5 days of Disney to fill on our 7 day trip. Also want to fit in a day at Kennedy Space Center. We lose the 7th day due to an early flight back home.

Are the water Parks open that time of year or is it too cold?

I may either spring for the 7 day Ultimate pass or buy a day pass for MK to take in the party.

Thanks again

Goofy1

[mickey]

Are the water Parks open that time of year or is it too cold?

Yep, at least one of the water parks will be open. If the weather conforms to past years, you will most likely have temperatures in the mid 80s during the day, plenty warm to swim.

[tmcquaid]

I called before making our reservation to confirm which park would be open during December. My husband has never been to Blizzard Beach and really wanted to go there, weather permitting. They said Blizzard Beach would be open in December but would be closed in January/February. Hope that helps!

[Goofy1]

Yes, that does help. Blizzard Beach is closer to the room. Hopefully Typhoon Lagoon will also be operating. Kids are water monkeys ! As long as there isn't a layer of ice in it I am sure my kids will splash around.

Goofy1

[Linda]

I have read somewhere recently (can't recall where, there has been so much) that the crowds at the MVMCP will be more "controled" this year. They are supposed to set a number and stick to it. This should help with the extra crowds.

This is my first year to try the MVMCP and I am really looking forward to it. Of course, I will be by myself, and no children to have to consider. There has been some less than positive comments that I have read but I want to experience this on my own and form my own thoughts. But, I will be glad to voice my opinion later after the trip!

Try it, you may like it! :laugh