Top Tips for Spending Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World

Visiting Walt Disney World during Thanksgiving offers a magical blend of holiday festivities and Disney charm. With the parks dressed in their holiday best, Thanksgiving week is a prime time to create unforgettable memories. Whether it’s savoring a festive meal, enjoying special events, or soaking in the dazzling decorations, there’s plenty to experience. Here are some top tips to ensure your Thanksgiving Disney trip is nothing short of spectacular.

1. Plan Ahead for Success

Planning ahead is always crucial for a Disney vacation, but it’s especially important during Thanksgiving, when the parks see a noticeable uptick in crowds. To make the most of your trip:

• Resort Reservations: Book your accommodations as early as possible to secure your preferred resort and room category. Resort packages can typically be reserved up to a year in advance with a refundable deposit, so lock in your stay early.
• Dining Reservations: Mark your calendar for 60 days before your arrival to snag those coveted dining reservations. Thanksgiving dinner spots like Liberty Tree Tavern or Art Smith’s Homecomin’ fill up fast, so being proactive is key.
• Lightning Lane Selections: Make your ride plans early to maximize your time in the parks. Popular attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure are in high demand, so book your return times promptly.

Planning ahead ensures your Thanksgiving visit is smooth and stress-free, leaving you with more time to enjoy the magic.

2. Consider a Villa for Family Gatherings

For families traveling together, Deluxe Villa accommodations are a fantastic option. Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and the Cabins at Fort Wilderness offer full kitchens. These spaces make it easy to host a cozy, private Thanksgiving dinner. You can:

• Prepare your own meal using groceries from local delivery services.
• Heat up a pre-made Thanksgiving feast from a nearby store.
• Enjoy the comfort of gathering together in a home-away-from-home setting.

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Even if only one group in your party opts for a villa, it can serve as a central meeting place for everyone to relax and enjoy a family meal.

3. Thanksgiving Dining Options in Disney

If cooking isn’t part of your vacation plan (and who could blame you?), Disney offers plenty of fantastic Thanksgiving meal options. Many restaurants serve special holiday menus featuring traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Here are a few spots that embody the Thanksgiving spirit:

Credit: Disney

• Liberty Tree Tavern (Magic Kingdom): Famous for its family-style Thanksgiving feast served year-round.
• 50’s Prime Time Café (Disney’s Hollywood Studios): Enjoy comfort food in a nostalgic setting where “Mom” keeps you in line.
• Trail’s End Restaurant (Fort Wilderness): A cozy spot offering hearty, down-home meals.
• Garden Grill (EPCOT): This rotating restaurant serves farm-fresh dishes with Disney characters stopping by for a visit.
• Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (Disney Springs): Indulge in Southern-style cooking with a festive twist.

For a touch of elegance, consider Yachtsman Steakhouse or California Grill. Wherever you choose, reserve early to guarantee a table.

4. Plan Smart Travel Days

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, so choosing your travel days wisely can save you time and stress:

• Arrival Days: Avoid the Tuesday or Wednesday before Thanksgiving if possible, as these tend to be the most hectic. Arriving on Sunday or Monday can give you a head start.
• Departure Days: The Sunday after Thanksgiving is notoriously busy. If you can extend your trip and leave on Monday, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds and lower airfare.

Planning your travel days thoughtfully can make your holiday Disney trip feel more like a vacation and less like a marathon.

5. Pack Holiday Cheer

Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World overlaps with the holiday season, so embrace the festive spirit by packing holiday-themed items:

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• Park Attire: Bring holiday shirts, Mickey ears, or even matching family outfits to add a touch of seasonal fun.
• Room Décor: Consider packing a mini Christmas tree, garlands, or Thanksgiving decorations to bring a little extra magic to your resort room.
• Accessories: Festive accessories like holiday pins or themed lanyards can enhance the experience for both adults and kids.

Adding these small touches helps create lasting memories and makes your Disney visit feel even more special.

6. Soak in the Holiday Magic

One of the highlights of visiting during Thanksgiving is experiencing the holiday magic across the parks and resorts. Here’s what not to miss:

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• Magic Kingdom: Admire the stunning holiday decorations, watch the castle lighting ceremony, and enjoy the Jingle Cruise, a festive overlay of the Jungle Cruise.
• EPCOT: Visit the International Festival of the Holidays, where you can explore food booths and listen to holiday storytellers from around the world. Don’t miss the breathtaking Candlelight Processional and the nighttime show, Luminous The Symphony of Us.
• Hollywood Studios: Stroll down Sunset Boulevard to see vintage holiday decorations and enjoy the Tower of Terror’s dazzling holiday projections. Wrap up your evening with the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! fireworks show.
• Animal Kingdom: Take in the beautifully themed decorations inspired by African and Asian cultures, and enjoy holiday overlays in select attractions.

Don’t forget to explore the resorts, where you’ll find incredible gingerbread displays, towering Christmas trees, and festive surprises at every turn.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving at Walt Disney World is a magical way to celebrate the holiday while kicking off the festive season. With careful planning, thoughtful dining choices, and a touch of holiday cheer, your Disney trip can be filled with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re savoring a turkey dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern, marveling at holiday decorations, or simply enjoying family time in the parks, Thanksgiving at Disney is a feast for the heart and soul.

What are your favorite Thanksgiving traditions at Walt Disney World? Share your tips and memories in the comments below!