Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World in the Winter
I am guessing you probably decided to visit Walt Disney World in January or February because it is known to have fewer crowds and lower temperatures. (Use code BLOG10 for 10% off this Planning Calendar to help you see the best times to visit Disney World!)
My family and I love to visit Walt Disney World during this time of year. There’s something wonderful about escaping the snowy fields in New Jersey and basking in the Florida sunshine!
Did you know this is also the time of the year when the Festival of the Arts takes place in EPCOT?
I have put together everything you need to know about the seasonal events, weather, and more so you know everything going on during your trip and can maybe even paint with all the colors of the wind 😉
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (mid-January – end of February)
The festival itself is included in the cost of admission, but you’ll find food, merchandise, and add-on activities available for purchase!
Celebrating Culinary, Visual, and Performing Arts, this fest is quickly becoming one of my favorite events!
Let’s start with a subject near and dear to my heart — FOOD!
The Festival of the Arts features Food Studios located throughout the World Showcase. There’s a huge focus on the presentation of the food served at the festival.
As far as special events, this festival has plenty of awesome offerings!
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series features performances of Disney songs by accomplished Broadway actors and actresses.
Plus, there are Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages available which guarantee priority seating for the performance!
Other entertainment in past years has included chalk artists, living statues, choirs, marching bands, and more, located throughout the park!
Visual art is also represented throughout the park with displays and galleries! And there are both Complimentary Seminars and extra-ticketed Workshops available for guests interested in learning more about the arts. Plus, another fun way to get in on the action — there’s an interactive wall mural where guests can paint a piece of the final product.
For more on what to expect at the Festival check out this blog post.
WEATHER
Winter is a great time to visit if you’re looking for milder temperatures!
The average high temperature in January is 72 degrees and the average low is 51 degrees.
Most people visiting Disney World can pack summer clothes (including your swimsuit), since it’s usually warm to hot-ish, but you may encounter a cold snap.
Pay close attention to the forecast before your trip and plan to wear layers. Start the day with a jacket and/or long sleeves and then remove layers as the temperatures warm up.
Swimming in January? Yes! The outdoor pools are heated, plus many resorts offer spas or hot tubs.
BEFORE YOU GO
Make sure to check if any scheduled ride refurbishments are planned!
Attractions that are scheduled to be closed for refurbishment are listed on the calendar on the Disney World website.
There are some rides that go down for refurbishment every year — both Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom and Kali River Rapids in Animal Kingdom are closed starting in early or mid-January for annual maintenance.
Also, keep in mind that at least one of the Disney water parks will be closed for the season.
Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach usually receive maintenance in alternating months to allow one to remain open (weather permitting!).
Related Posts:
Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World during the Holidays
Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World in the Summer
Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World in the Fall
Everything you need to know about visiting Walt Disney World in the Spring