Walt Disney World in January 2025: Plan Your Winter Escape
Magic Kingdom Castle Decorations for the Holidays in January
January is a great time to visit Disney World, with lower crowds and more affordable prices than other times of the year. Plus, you'll get to experience all the parks without the intense heat and humidity of the summer months.
One of the biggest perks of visiting Disney World in January is the low crowds. With most schools back in session and the holiday rush over, you'll have shorter wait times for rides and attractions, and more space to explore the parks at your own pace. In addition, you'll be able to enjoy all the seasonal decorations and events without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
Another benefit of visiting Disney World in January 2025 is the more affordable prices. Disney Resort hotels tend to have lower rates during this time of year, making it a great opportunity to stay at a resort without breaking the bank. Plus, you'll have more flexibility to choose your travel dates and take advantage of special deals and promotions.
Overall, January is a great time to visit Disney World, offering a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience for you and your family.
Why Visit Disney World in January 2025
If you're planning a trip to Disney World, January 2025 is the perfect time to visit. Here are some reasons why:
Lower Crowds
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Disney World in January 2025 is the lower crowds. After the busy holiday season, the parks tend to be less crowded, which means shorter lines and less stress. For 2025, most school districts return from Holiday break on January 6. As kids return to school, the crowds tend to dip and you'll be able to experience more attractions and shows without having to wait in long lines.
Cooler Weather
Another advantage of visiting Disney World in January 2025 is the cooler weather. While it may not be as warm as the summer months, the temperatures are generally mild and comfortable. This makes it easier to spend more time outside and enjoy the parks without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.
Lower Prices
Finally, January 2025 is a great time to visit Disney World because of the lower prices. Hotel prices tend to be lower, outside of three specific exceptions: New Years’ Day, Marathon weekend (Jan. 9-12) and MLK Weekend (Jan. 17-20) Additionally, ticket prices are generally lower, which means you can save money on your park tickets!
If you're looking for a fun and affordable time to visit Disney World, January 2025 is the perfect time to go. With lower crowds, cooler weather, and lower prices, you'll be able to enjoy all that Disney World has to offer without breaking the bank or feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
Weather and What to Wear to Disney World in January 2025
If you're planning a trip to Disney World in January 2025, you'll want to be prepared for a range of weather conditions and temperatures. The average high temperature in Orlando during January is around 71°F (22°C), while the average low is around 50°F (10°C). This means you can expect some cool mornings and evenings, but pleasant daytime temperatures.
When packing for your trip, you'll want to bring clothes to wear for the variety in temperature. The most important advice for what to wear and pack for Disney World in January is to be prepared for both extremes! Here are some suggestions for what to wear during your visit:
Layers: Bring clothing that can easily be layered, such as a light jacket, sweatshirt or sweater. This will allow you to adjust your outfit as the temperature changes throughout the day.
Pants: Most don’t associate Disney World with the need for jeans or pants, but they can be a savior in January. Some days in January can be far too hot for pants and others can be cold even with pants on. Again, be prepared!
Comfortable shoes: These are a must no matter what time of year you visit. The big note here is you are less likely to pull out a pair of flip flops or sandals in January.
Rain gear: January is one of the wettest months of the year in Orlando, so you may encounter some rain during your visit. Be sure to pack a rain jacket or poncho, as well as an umbrella. Ponchos are always available when rain starts at the theme parks, but are more expensive than options from Amazon or local stores before you leave for vacation.
Sunscreen: Even though the temperatures may be cooler, the sun can still be strong in January. Be sure to pack sunscreen and wear a hat or sunglasses.
The key to dressing for a January visit to Disney World is to be prepared for a range of weather conditions. By packing a mix of clothing and being ready for rain or sun, you'll be able to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Disney World in January 2025
If you are planning to visit Disney World in January 2025, it is important to consider the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here are some points to keep in mind:
Pros
Walt Disney World Marathon Expo in January at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Lower Crowd Levels: After the holiday season, January is generally considered a slow month for Disney World. This means shorter wait times for attractions, easier access to restaurants, and less crowded streets.
Milder Weather: January is a great time to visit Disney World if you prefer cooler temperatures. The average high temperature is around 71°F (22°C) and the average low temperature is around 50°F (10°C).
Special Events: January is a great time to visit if you're interested in special events. The Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend takes place in early January, and Epcot's International Festival of the Arts kicks off in the second half of January.
Good Deals: January is considered a value season for Disney World, which means you can find some good deals on hotels and tickets.
Cons
Limited Park Hours: Disney World typically has shorter park hours in January compared to other months. This means you may have less time to explore the parks and attractions.
Attraction Closures: January is also a time when water parks, some attractions and pools may be closed for refurbishment or maintenance. Make sure to check the Disney World website for the latest information.
Cooler Temperatures: While some may see cooler temperatures as a pro, others may find it a downside. If you prefer warmer or more consistent weather, January may not be the best time to visit Disney World.
Overall, visiting Disney World in January 2024 can be a great experience if you know what to expect. With lower crowds, milder weather, and special events, it can be a great time to visit. However, keep in mind the limited park hours, attraction closures, cooler temperatures, and fewer entertainment options.
Special Events and Festivals at Walt Disney World in January 2025
If you're planning a visit to Disney World in January 2025, you're in luck! There are plenty of special events and festivals to keep you entertained throughout your trip.
Paint by Numbers is an annual feature for kids and adults alike at Epcot’s Festival of the Arts
First off, there's New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. You can expect to see some special fireworks displays and entertainment to ring in the new year. It's a great time to be in the parks, but keep in mind that it can be quite crowded. Hotel and Resort prices for December 31 and January 1 are typically high.
Next up is the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, which typically runs from January 12-February 19, 2025 (official dates will be announced much closer).
This festival celebrates all things art, from visual arts to culinary arts. You can expect to see live performances, workshops, and of course, plenty of amazing food and drinks. Be sure to check out the Disney on Broadway concert series, where you can see some of your favorite Broadway stars perform.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is a must-do event for distance runners to experience!
If you're a runner, you might want to consider participating in the flagship runDisney race, Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which takes place from January 9 to January 12. This event includes a variety of races, from a 5K to a full marathon. Even if you're not a runner, it's still fun to cheer on the participants and take in the energy of the event. Notably, while the races can interfere with transportation, all races except the marathon are typically finished before the parks open
Finally, there's Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on January 20 in 2025. You can expect to see some special entertainment and activities throughout the parks to celebrate the holiday.
Planning Your Disney Vacation
Planning a Disney World vacation can be overwhelming, but with some tips and tricks, you can make the most of your trip. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your January 2025 Disney vacation:
Reservations
Make sure to book your resort or hotel and any dining reservations as early as possible. Disney World is a popular vacation destination year-round, and January is no exception. By booking early, you can secure your preferred hotel and dining options. Hotel reservations are available now for all of 2025 while dining reservations can be made 60 days prior to check-in.
Date-Based Tickets
Disney World offers date-based tickets, which means the price of your ticket will vary depending on the day you visit. Keep in mind that events, weekends and holidays tend to be more expensive than weekdays. If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, consider visiting the parks on weekdays to save money.
Disney Dining Plan is back
The Disney Dining Plan is back for reservations checking in after January 8, 2024. The dining plan is a great way to save money on food during your trip. There are two options: the Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan. The Quick Service Dining Plan includes two quick-service meals and two snacks per day, while the Disney Dining Plan includes one quick-service meal, one table-service meal, and two snacks per day. Both options also include a refillable mug to use at your resort.
Planning Your Days
To make the most of your time at Disney World, it's important to plan your days in advance. Use the My Disney Experience app, consider Multi-Pass reservations for your favorite attractions, and make a rough itinerary for each day. Keep in mind that January is typically a less crowded time to visit, so you may not need to plan as much as you would during busier times of the year.
Crowds and Peak Days
If you're planning a trip to Disney World in January 2025, it's important to know what to expect in terms of crowds. The month starts off with some of the year's heaviest crowds, but finishes with low crowds and cool temps - two of our favorite things to have when visiting!
The first few days of January are usually the busiest, with many people still on holiday break. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, it's best to avoid visiting on January 1st and 2nd. However, if you can't avoid those days, make sure to arrive at the park early to beat the crowds.
The Marathon Weekend (9-12) is unique. The races start very early in the morning, with most runners getting on buses between 2:30 and 3:30 am. As a result, while traffic and the parks may be a little more crowded in the morning, the parks are fairly empty in the evening because the runners are not staying out late.
Another peak time to be aware of is the long weekend around Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 17-20). Many families take advantage of the long weekend to visit Disney World, so expect heavier crowds during this time.
While there are no major holidays in January, it's important to note that some schools may have their winter break during this month. If you're planning a trip during this time, make sure to check the school calendars in your area to avoid any unexpected crowds.
If you're looking to avoid crowds, it's best to plan your trip for later in January. The crowds tend to thin out towards the end of the month, making it a great time to visit.
Park Attractions and Closures
When planning your visit to Disney World in January 2025, it's important to know which attractions and areas of the parks may be closed for refurbishment. This can help you plan your itinerary and avoid disappointment when you arrive. As refurbishments are announced, we will share them here.
Dining and Restaurants
When it comes to dining at Disney World in January 2025, the biggest change is the return of the Disney Dining Plans. The plans allow you to prepay for your meals and snacks, so you don't have to worry about carrying cash or credit cards around the park. There are two plans available: the Disney Dining Plan and the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan. The former includes table-service restaurants, while the latter is for quick-service restaurants.
Tickets and Discounts
If you're planning to visit Disney World in January 2025, you'll want to start thinking about your tickets and discounts. Here's what you need to know:
Theme Park Tickets
January 2025 Walt Disney World Ticket Prices
Ticket prices for 2026 will likely be released in June of 2025.
For January 2025, Walt Disney World ticket prices started at $139 per person and max out at $164 for a one-park, one-day ticket. Ticket prices are date based and change daily as indicated in the Disney ticket calendar. This price doesn't include the 6.5% sales tax, or any add-on options like Park Hopper, Memory Maker, or the Water Park and Sports option. If you're planning to visit multiple parks, consider purchasing a Park Hopper ticket, which allows you to visit more than one park per day.
Additional Tips for Your Visit
When planning your trip to Disney World in January 2025, there are a few additional tips that can help make your visit even better:
Arrive Early
One of the best tips for any Disney World visit is to arrive early. This is especially true in January when the crowds are lower.
Consider Disney After Hours
If you want to experience the parks with even fewer crowds, consider attending Disney After Hours events if they are available. These special events allows you to enjoy select attractions with little to no wait times. Plus, you'll get to enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks. Keep in mind that this event requires a separate ticket, but it can be well worth the cost for a more exclusive experience.
Dress for the Weather
Understand the Park Sizes
Disney World is massive, and each park has its own unique layout. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the park maps before your visit to avoid getting lost or missing out on attractions. You can also use the My Disney Experience app to navigate the parks and check wait times for attractions. This is particularly true for those that have been to Disneyland or other theme parks that are smaller or have attractions that are close together. Walt Disney World can be daunting!
Take Advantage of Multi-Pass
Multi Pass is a paid service that allows you to reserve access to select attractions in advance, which can save you a lot of time waiting in line. Pricing is variable, so with lower crowds you can typically expect Genie+ to be more affordable and you can really maximize your time in the parks.
Stay Hydrated
With all the walking and excitement, it's easy to forget to stay hydrated, especially in cool weather. Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the water fountains located throughout the parks. You can also get free cups of water or purchase bottled water and other beverages at various locations throughout the parks.
Comparisons with Other Months
February: a good month to visit if you want to avoid crowds, but it can be chilly and rainy. Some rides may also be closed for refurbishment.
March: a popular month to visit Disney World because of spring break, but it can be crowded and expensive. The weather is usually mild, but it can be rainy.
April: another popular month to visit because of spring break, but it can be crowded. The weather is usually mild.
May: a good month to visit if you want to avoid crowds, but it can be hot and humid.
June, July, August: Summer is the busiest time to visit Disney World, with crowds and high temperatures. However, this is also when the parks typically have extended hours and great deals.
September: a good month to visit if you want to avoid crowds, but it can be hot and humid. Some rides may also be closed for refurbishment.
October: Warm days, cooler evenings, and festive events like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
November: the parks start to shimmer with holiday lights, cooler temperatures, and special festive decorations, parades and parties, making it a magical time to visit.
December: a traditionally crowded month with great Christmas and Holiday festivities, including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I book Disney World for January 2025?
You can book your Disney World trip for January 2025 NOW!
Is January a good month to visit Disney World?
Yes, January is a great month to visit Disney World. The crowds are typically lower, which means shorter wait times for attractions and a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, the weather is mild, with average temperatures in the mid-70s°F (around 23°C).
Best time to visit Disney World 2025?
January is our favorite time to visit Walt Disney World. Low crowds and cooler weather are a great combination, particularly for families!
Disney World crowd calendar 2025?
January is one of the least crowded months at Disney World, with lower wait times and fewer crowds.
When do Christmas decorations come down at Walt Disney World?
Christmas decorations begin to go up on November 1 and are slowly removed in mid-January. While Disney does not provide a specific date for the removal, the castle is typically always still decorated for Christmas during the Disney Marathon Weekend, which takes place January 8-12, 2025.
