Candlelight processional, and some other Christmas questions

[SecondStarTilMorning]

Hello there! My wife and I are returning to the most magical place on earth Saturday, November 30th until Friday, December 6th. It will be our first ever trip during the Christmas season, but it will be our fifth trip to WDW since 2010. We'll be staying at a Savannah View room in Kidani Village for our first two nights, then switching to Wyndham Star Island in Kissimmee for the next four.

My questions are as follows:

How is the Animal Kingdom Lodge during Christmas?

Is it better to do Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on a Sunday or on a Tuesday? What tips do you have about the Christmas party in general?

Any tips for getting the most out of the Osbourne lights? Do you need to get there hours early?

Neil Patrick Harris will be Narrating the Candlelight Processional when we are in EPCOT. Does this mean it will be a three hour long line to see it without the dining package?

Speaking of the dining package.. it's $35 for lunch at biergarten, which is reasonable... but the prices are basically double that for lunch or dinner anywhere else. Based on price, is Biergarten really that inferior of a dining experience compared to somewhere like Tutto Italia?

Aside from the Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and the Boardwalk Area resorts.... what other resort hotels have "can't miss" Christmas decorations?

What are some special things that happen during the Christmas season that surprised you?

Are there any really awesome souvenirs that are for sale only during Christmas season that wouldn't be found year-round?

What are the chances we will get weather that creeps into the 80's the first week of december? What are the chances it will basically be cold most of the day?

Thanks!

 

[wdwmagic]

Thats a lot of questions in one post. You might get better answers if you break those down into separate posts.

 

[SecondStarTilMorning]

Thats a lot of questions in one post. You might get better answers if you break those down into separate posts.

I am having faith that lots of forum members will be delighted to answer each of these questions!

 

[Graham9]

For what it's worth, I may help with these...

Is it better to do Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on a Sunday or on a Tuesday? What tips do you have about the Christmas party in general?

Stay away from Magic Kingdom during the day of the party. You would have had enough of the place before it begins.

Any tips for getting the most out of the Osbourne lights? Do you need to get there hours early?

Not really apart from the obvious, which is to get there early when it starts and stay as long as you can. It does get busy, but the best tip is get a good camera if you want good pictures in low light. There is no one real good place to get a good picture, but several.

Aside from the Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and the Boardwalk Area resorts.... what other resort hotels have "can't miss" Christmas decorations?

I think it depends what you like. The three you mention are the obvious favourites, but all the resorts are decorated to their own style. I liked French Quarter when we were there for Christmas.

What are the chances we will get weather that creeps into the 80's the first week of december? What are the chances it will basically be cold most of the day?

On previous trips in December, the weather has been fairly warm during the day, but get quite fresh when the sun goes down - or before it rises. It was not unknown for me to scrape ice off my car one morning. Best tip is to be prepared for the cold mornings/evenings, but also for the fairly warm day. There again, weather can be unpredictable at the best of times.

 

[dreamfinder]

How is the Animal Kingdom Lodge during Christmas?

Great big Christmas tree. Very similar setup to WL.

Any tips for getting the most out of the Osbourne lights? Do you need to get there hours early?

No need to get there hours early. Stay open for several hours, and people just keep walking through. Some like seeing the lighting, which is around dusk, but thats the only reason to get there early. SOme days its actually pretty empty later on, especially if F! is going on.

Neil Patrick Harris will be Narrating the Candlelight Processional when we are in EPCOT. Does this mean it will be a three hour long line to see it without the dining package?

Possibly.

Speaking of the dining package.. it's $35 for lunch at biergarten, which is reasonable... but the prices are basically double that for lunch or dinner anywhere else. Based on price, is Biergarten really that inferior of a dining experience compared to somewhere like Tutto Italia?

It's a buffet. With a lunch time between like 12:30 and 2:30. And a 5:00 showtime. So it's an odd lunch time (later than most people eat) and an earlier showtime (which may still be light out). Remember the a la cart includes app, entree, dessert, and non-alcoholic drink. So thats $50ish worth of food, while the buffett at Biergarten normally costs $25ish. You need to compare them for what they are.

Aside from the Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and the Boardwalk Area resorts.... what other resort hotels have "can't miss" Christmas decorations?

AKL, where you talking of staying.

What are the chances we will get weather that creeps into the 80's the first week of december? What are the chances it will basically be cold most of the day?

In our trips in both Dec and Jan we have seen temps hit about 33, and go all the way up to 80. Both are a bit on the extreme sides, I'd expect to see it in the middle, but anything is possible.

 

[JillC LI]

I'll take two of those questions:

Osborne Lights - if it is early December, I recommend you get to the area of DHS where the lights will be about 15-20 minutes before show time. It is really cool to see all the lights come on for the first time at 6ish. You can still see them throughout the night, and they will dance intermittently, but that first lighting is really cool.

Weather - Last December we had one day in the 40s (by day, yes) and 4 days later it was in the 70s. Pack layers (and don't be dumb like we did on that 40 degree day and leave your jackets in the room! lol).

Edit-make that 3 questions:
Biergarten - It is a buffet and the food is quite good. The atmosphere is a lot of fun if you like oompah music and don't mind sitting at a long table with other people (like they genuinely do it in the beer halls in Germany).

 

[SecondStarTilMorning]

I'll take two of those questions:

Osborne Lights - if it is early December, I recommend you get to the area of DHS where the lights will be about 15-20 minutes before show time. It is really cool to see all the lights come on forthe first time at 6ish. You can still see them throughout the night, and they will dance intermittently, but that first lighting is really cool.

Weather - Last December we had one day in the 40s (by day, yes) and 4 days later it was in the 70s. Pack layers (and don't be dumb like we did on that 40 degree day and leave your jackets in the room! lol).

Thanks! I am hoping since it's the first week of December there is still a chance for some warmth. Unlike later December, January, and February which I expect to be chilly basically except in the case of rare exceptions

 

[ginadee]

No answers here. Just wanted to say I,ll be there the exact dates as you. Im really crossing my fingers for the weather. Average that time is high 70's and low 50's.

 

[rsoxguy]

How is the Animal Kingdom Lodge during Christmas?
I've never been. They seem to emphasize the Deluxe Resorts during the Holiday Season, so my guess would be that it's worth a diligent look. Truthfully, I'm more about the parks, and less about hotels.

Is it better to do Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on a Sunday or on a Tuesday? What tips do you have about the Christmas party in general?
My guess would be a weekday over a weekend. I have been to WDW every month of the year, and every day of the week. I would choose Tuesday.

Any tips for getting the most out of the Osbourne lights? Do you need to get there hours early?
"Getting the most" out of this attraction involves showing up at any time and opening your eyes. No other offer is available, and no other effort is required. It's spectacular.

Neil Patrick Harris will be Narrating the Candlelight Processional when we are in EPCOT. Does this mean it will be a three hour long line to see it without the dining package?
The lines are always pretty long. I would suggest the Dining Package regardless of the narrator.

Speaking of the dining package.. it's $35 for lunch at biergarten, which is reasonable... but the prices are basically double that for lunch or dinner anywhere else. Based on price, is Biergarten really that inferior of a dining experience compared to somewhere like Tutto Italia?
In my humble opinion, yes. I don't like traditional German food, and the atmosphere is a country mile short of Holiday cozy. The place smells strongly of beer and sauerkraut, and it's noisy. I would spend the money to dine elsewhere.

Aside from the Grand Floridian, Wilderness Lodge, and the Boardwalk Area resorts.... what other resort hotels have "can't miss" Christmas decorations?
That's about it for me. Otherwise, you're paying big bucks to tour hotels. To each their own.

What are some special things that happen during the Christmas season that surprised you?
I go every Christmas for a few days, so there are few surprises for me. The Holiday perks are slowly diminishing, but you have never been at this time of the year, so there's nothing that you will find missing, and every sight will be a treat. Enjoy, says I.

Are there any really awesome souvenirs that are for sale only during Christmas season that wouldn't be found year-round?
I have seen holiday related items through the years, but the definition of awesome changes with each consumer. Half the fun is seeing it, loving it, and buying it.

What are the chances we will get weather that creeps into the 80's the first week of december? What are the chances it will basically be cold most of the day?
Everyone always asks about the weather, and folks need to consider their own home town. Chances are, some years are warmer than others. It's possible to see highs in the low 80's in early December, but it's also possible that it will be chillier. Bring clothing for both possibilities and you won't be inconvenienced. (As an example, I live in South Florida and I have seen highs around 80 on Christmas Day, but I have also seen icicles hanging off of tomato plants on Christmas morning. The past couple of years have yielded warmer Winters, but there's no way to accurately prognosticate the weather for this coming December.

 

[kfergdisney]

All really good questions. I have no answers, either as I am going for the first time during the Christmas season myself this year! I know I will already be in the Christmas Spirit (we've been practicing Christmas music at choir at church for 2 months already) so I'm READY!

 

[75disney]

I have been to Disney about the same time as you are going since 2007. In fact our vacays overlap (will be there 11/23-12/3).
1. I have never been to AKL. Based on people's descriptions of the resort when it is not Christmas and the fact that it has a Signature Tree, we are stopping there this time to check it out and have breakfast. It should be amazing.

2. Go to MVMCP on Tues. Although the majority of the Thanksgiving crowd departs by Sun., you still have a decent amount that stays a few extra days to take advantage of better air fares so Sun. may be more crowded. Go into the MK on the day. Of your party at 4pm. Although the party doesn't start until 7, you can go in a few hours early, get your wrist bands, and maximize the money you spent on the ticket. Be sure to see the parade and special shows because they are not offered during regular operating hours.

3. Osborne Lights are the best part of Christmas at Disney in my opinion. No need to get there early. Just give yourself enough time to leisurely stroll through them. It takes us at least an hour to view them because we do not rush. Get a cup of cocoa as you do it; it really puts you in the Christmas mindset.

4. Lines get very long for the Candle Light Processional. I have seen people lining up three hours in advance of the first show. Do the dinner package; it is well worth it for the special seating. Go for a lunch; as you noted, it is cheaper.

5. I haven't eaten at Biergarten in years because I do not like German food. There are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in Epcot. It is really a matter of personal taste at which one you choose to eat.

6. You pretty much covered the main resorts with extra-special decorations. All of the resorts have themed Christmas decorations though, but GF, WL, AKL, BW, and BC, have the most spectacular.

7. I recommend seeing the Storyteller shows in Epcot. As you walk though the various parks, just take some time to soak up the decorations and atmosphere.

8. There are seasonal souvenirs. If you have time, try to go to World of Christmas at DTD. It is chock-full of Christmas decorations 365 days of the year.

9. The weather can vary widely at that time of the year. One year we wore shorts because the weather was in the low 80s. The next year, we wore jeans and sweatshirts everyday because it topped out in the high 60s. Pack for transitional weather. On an average weather day, expect highs in mid-70s and lows in the high 50s. You will probably need a jacket or sweatshirt in the morning, but by late morning you will take it off. Layers are a definite must. We always pack for 2 seasons: fall and summer.

Hope all of this helps. I have been to Disney at all times of the year and late November-early December is my favorite time to visit. The weather tends to be nice and it is a great way to kick off your holiday season!

 

[SecondStarTilMorning]

All really good questions. I have no answers, either as I am going for the first time during the Christmas season myself this year! I know I will already be in the Christmas Spirit (we've been practicing Christmas music at choir at church for 2 months already) so I'm READY!

I serve full time as a minister of music, it's my whole life! We started our Christmas choir music 3 weeks ago. Love it.

 

[MouseRight]

Neil Patrick Harris will be Narrating the Candlelight Processional:
I have been going to CP for many years. NPH was, by far, the most crowded I have ever seen. Lines very long. Standing Room Only at each show. The Standby Line for the first show pretty much was the line for all three shows. Last time I saw him, there were standing crowds going back all the way to the fountain in front of American Adventure.

Even if you do the lunch or dinner package, you have to get on the Dinner Package line early for any show. They only guarantee you a seat, not a good seat. For best seating get there early. In my opinion, best seating is not actually up front. When you sit in the first 10 rows or so, you get a skewed sound. You hear what you are closer to. By sitting in front of section behind the conductor you get a balance sound. This is the best show presented by Disney anywhere in the parks. Oh yeah, don't forget to stand during the Hallelujah Chorus. Its a tradition to stand when it is being played. ENJOY!!

Osborne Lights:

I actually like to go a little later. If you don't mind missing the lighting ceremony, the crowds thin out as night goes on. Make sure you enter the area about 45 minutes to an hour before close so you have time to walk around, enjoy, and watch the various lights shows. Nice way to end the day!

Christmas Parade Taping:

I understand that they will be filming the Christmas Parade for ABC on December 6 & 7. See here. Fun to watch and see singers, dancers, and stars.

http://www.wdwmagic.com/events/holidays-at-the-magic-kingdom/news/26sep2013-christmas-day-parade-taping-dates-set-for-early-december.htm

 

[fillerup]

The red text is unreadable.

 

[Nemo14]

The red text is unreadable.

???

looks fine to me.

 

[sxeensweet]

Can reply to all but will just reply to 2. Lol
We prefer to see the Osborne lights during evening EMH at HS. Feels like you almost have it to yourself!! Usually in Dec HS EMH are on Sundays and it stays open until 11. I know for sure that's the hours this year and we plan on being there those nights to view the lights in peace.

2nd the weather can literally be all over the place! Can be in the 80's, 60's, 30's etc. Durning one trip we had everything warm/hot, rainy, then cold and windy , then mild temps after that etc. All you can do is pack for everything even if the weather report has one thing it can change once you get there several times so don't just rely on the weather reports before you leave or you may regret it!! We go at this time every trip now and we are from south Louisiana so our weather is the same and can never make up its mind just like at WDW!

 

[Matt_Black]

My questions are as follows:

How is the Animal Kingdom Lodge during Christmas?

Absolutely beautiful. We didn't stay there, but did eat at Sanaa, and in the lobby we saw the tree, enjoyed a barbershop quartet, saw Donald Duck in a Bing Crosby-esque holiday get up, and got our picture taken with Santa Stitch.

What are the chances we will get weather that creeps into the 80's the first week of december? What are the chances it will basically be cold most of the day?

We went Christmas week, and the weather was all over the place. Our first two days, the low was the high 30s, maybe getting to the 50 or 60s in the afternoon. Then things warmed up considerably, to the 70-80 range. Last full day, really cold again. The day of our flight out might have been the nicest weather that whole week. D'oh.

 

[wdwfan4ver]

I actually was at WDW in 2010 around the dates you mentioned and was the only time I went to WDW in December. My answers are in order.

1.) I remembered seeing seeing a big tree there when I was doing hotel hopping.
2.) I got no idea. I went to MVCP on a Thursday or Friday in 2010 and it was packed.
3.) I saw the lights when they first started and also went during Fantasmic!. You can get leisure time either way.
4.) I didn't see Neil Patrick Harris, but I saw Susan Lucci and the actor that played Roger Dorn in the Major League movie franchise at the Candlelight Processional without Packages on two different nights. Based Susan Lucci, you will not get a get a seat if you don't have the package and not the easiest to get a good view standing since Neil Patrick Harris is a big name.
5.) I can't comment since I didn't do the dining package.
6.) It was either the Swan or Dolphin that had Santa, and some other stuff made out of Chocolate. My rule to check out the deluxe hotels as a whole especially the monorail hotels and the deluxe epcot area hotels. To me the French Quarter was the best out of the moderates in terms of decorations.
7.) I was shocked how crowded the first Monday at the Magic Kingdom was in the morning based on the fact the more crowded time was supposed to be closer to Christmas. I was also shocked how crowded Epcot was during the Christmas parade taping day.
8.) I can tell you that the countries at World Showcase has Christmas souvenirs that you don't see all year round such as Canada as an example.
9.) When I went in 2010 around the time you are going to, most of the days were anywhere from 50's to lower 70's during the day. There was record lows at night when I was there including 27 degrees outside at Night. My best advice is prepare to hot and cold weather for packing. I made the mistake of packing a fall jacket only.

 

[kfergdisney]

I serve full time as a minister of music, it's my whole life! We started our Christmas choir music 3 weeks ago. Love it.

Great job to have!
We are doing "double duty" in the next 3 weeks with the Christmas rehearsals. Our music minister is going back to WDW sometime next month, so we have to get the majority of songs memorized before Thanksgiving "break".
I love it!