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As Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season, Walt Disney World braces for one of its busiest weeks.
Credit: Inside the Magic
Millions of travelers are flocking to Central Florida, and Orlando International Airport (MCO) is gearing up for a record surge. Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, shared via Click Orlando that “airport staff, security partners, and vendors are energized by the challenge of this year’s expected holiday surge.” The peak travel day? Sunday, December 1, with an anticipated 188,000 passengers flying in and out.
But it’s not just the airport feeling the crunch. Disney’s new Lightning Lane Premier Pass—a pricey upgrade that offers expedited access to attractions—officially sold out across all parks for the first time earlier this week. While the high cost drew criticism, Thanksgiving crowds have snapped it up, signaling the chaotic energy enveloping Disney’s flagship resort.
Premier Pass pricing varies, peaking at Magic Kingdom and tapering at Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom. If history repeats itself, these parks will see wall-to-wall guests from now through the weekend.
Credit: Disney
Thanksgiving Crowds Descend on Walt Disney World Amid Cold Front Warnings
Adding a chilly twist to the holiday magic, a “parade of cold fronts” is sweeping into Florida. Click Orlando reports steady temperatures on Thanksgiving morning before a mild warm-up in the afternoon. But don’t pack light! “The first cold front is expected to make its entrance from Thursday into Friday,” warns the outlet. Guests may notice thickening clouds on Thanksgiving Day before the cooler air sets in. A second, more intense cold front arrives Sunday, causing temperatures to plunge further as lows hit the mid-40s by Tuesday morning.
It’s not uncommon for Florida’s tropical vibes to take a backseat during the holidays. Past cold snaps have forced closures of water parks like Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Could the sudden chill affect your plans? Only time will tell.
Credit: Inside the Magic
To keep the magic alive and perhaps spread out the crowds, Disney has extended theme park hours this Thanksgiving week. Guests now have extra time to enjoy iconic attractions, savor festive treats, and soak in the seasonal atmosphere. Of course, this also gives Disney more opportunities to capitalize on holiday spending.
Love it or hate it, Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World is a unique experience. But would you still brave the holiday crowds with chilly weather in the forecast? Let us know in the comments below!
