If you’ve ever been to Walt Disney World and noticed an overwhelming number of matching team jackets, massive hair bows, and the unmistakable sound of synchronized chants, you’ve likely stumbled into one of Disney’s major cheerleading competitions. Events like the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship and the D2 Summit bring thousands of cheerleaders, coaches, and their families to Disney — and their presence is impossible to miss.
While Disney World is famous for drawing big crowds, cheer competition weekends bring a different kind of energy — and sometimes, a little bit of chaos. These events fill the parks with large, spirited groups, spontaneous cheers erupting in ride queues, and a lively atmosphere that’s not for everyone. But it’s not just the parks that feel the impact — the resorts can get pretty wild, too.
One guest’s recent experience at a Disney World hotel during a cheer competition week turned into a perfect example of just how intense things can get. What started as a simple disagreement at the hotel’s hot tub escalated to the point where security had to step in and shut the whole thing down — and the story has quickly gone viral.
A Hot Tub Takeover Gone Wrong
A now-popular Reddit post titled “Manage expectations during cheer comps” has sparked a huge conversation among Disney fans about what it’s really like to visit the parks when cheer competitions take over. The post describes an incident at a Disney World hotel where a seemingly minor dispute over the hot tub jets spiraled into a full-on standoff between cheerleaders, their parents, and other hotel guests.
Despite clear signage stating the hot tub was for guests 16 and older, a chaperone for one of the cheer teams decided her group could take over — and things escalated fast.
Here’s the guest’s full account of what went down:
“For those wondering about visiting WDW during cheer weeks — a cautionary tale. Be weary of the power of numbers.
What started as a simple dispute over whether the jets in the hot tub should be kept on quickly boiled over (literally) into an army of teeny boppers and their enthusiastic parents lording over the hot tub and getting the whole thing closed.
The sign for the hot tub clearly stated 16 and older, but the chaperone for one of the groups felt that as a 17-year-old, she could unilaterally allow her group to dictate the controls on the hot tub.
The adults tried to reason, “Just put your drinks somewhere where the water won’t get in them.” This was insufficient. “There’s a much larger pool over there where there are no invasive jets and bubbles.” Again, unacceptable. To be clear, no angry words were spoken, but one of the older girls felt strongly enough in her convictions to swear at the adults. This was apparently the hill they would die on.
It wasn’t until 30 or more cheerleaders had managed to squeeze into the hot tub — goaded on by their angry parents — that security followed by the facility manager showed up. Accusations of drunkenness and mean-spirited behavior were lobbed. In reality, it was mostly civil, at least as civil as a mob of 9-12-year-olds can be. Unfortunately, though, no compromise was reached, and security decided to close the hot tub.
If you choose to visit the parks and stay at nearby hotels while cheer competitions are going on, be prepared to have your vacation influenced by the needs of the many. And if you happen to like an active hot tub, muster the fortitude to have the jets managed by youngsters. Hopefully, your experience is more diplomatic.”
The Internet Reacts
It didn’t take long for the story to spark debate. Many commenters shared their own experiences of visiting Disney World during cheer competition weeks — and for some, it’s a time they actively avoid.
One Orlando local weighed in with their own take:
“I really feel bad for people who have to go during cheer comps. We are local and don’t always pay attention to when they are going on, but once we get out there and realize, it’s usually a shorter day for us. I also used to work the shuttle buses for these comps, and I can attest — some of the most awful behavior from parents and kids alike.”
Manage expectations during cheer comps
byu/flashadvocate inWaltDisneyWorld
It’s not just the cheerleaders bringing the energy — some guests noted that the behavior of parents can be just as intense, with large groups moving through the parks and resorts in a way that can sometimes feel overwhelming for those looking for a more laid-back Disney experience.
How to Avoid the Cheer Crowds
If you’re planning a Disney World trip and want to steer clear of the boisterous crowds that come with cheer competitions, a little planning goes a long way. Events like the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship and the D2 Summit happen at specific times of the year, so it’s worth checking Disney’s event calendar before booking your vacation.
Here’s what you can expect during these weeks:
- Crowded parks and resorts: Cheer teams travel in large groups, which means longer lines and packed hotel common areas.
- High-energy atmosphere: Be ready for spontaneous cheers and team spirit on full display.
- Busy pools and hot tubs: As this story shows, shared amenities can quickly become overcrowded and contentious.
Want to avoid the chaos? Try these strategies:
- Stay at a non-host resort: Disney’s All-Star Resorts often house big groups — choosing a more upscale hotel can offer a quieter experience.
- Hit the parks early or late: Cheer teams often stick to competition schedules, so early mornings and late nights might offer more breathing room.
- Plan your visit outside competition dates: A quick search for Disney’s cheer event calendar can help you avoid the busiest weeks.
Disney World is always going to be a popular destination, but when major cheer competitions come to town, the energy level shifts into overdrive. Whether you love the lively atmosphere or prefer a more relaxed vacation, knowing what to expect can help you plan accordingly.
And if you do find yourself sharing a hot tub with a cheer squad takeover? Well, let’s just hope you don’t end up needing security to step in.
It’s no different than when the Brazilians visit in the summer in large groups. Always avoid the flags following groups!! Cheer parents are nuts!