Thoughts on Planning Idea, Please

[Pooh'sBuddy]

Good morning, everybody!

We started thinking about making a Spring Break trip next March (3/16/15-3/20/15) since we're against the idea of taking the kids out of school. Somehow, the thought popped into my head yesterday afternoon to try for mid August before we go back to school (8/17/15-8/21/15). The first part of the trip will include a couple of days in San Fran.

Touring plans shows crowds in August to be a little lighter, F! and fireworks are on, and the weather will be warmer (especially San Fran). Yes, I'll have to wait five more months 'til we go, but if we have a better time, that's OK.

Do y'all think going in August is a better plan?

Thank you in advance!

Jennifer

 

[GiveMeTheMusic]

It's unlikely Fantasmic and fireworks will be running every night during the March dates as Easter isn't until April 5 next year. August is a fine time, as long as you're okay with the heat - it will be hot in Anaheim (not so much so in San Fran).

 

[Travel Junkie]

Regarding San Francisco, there really isn’t a bad time of year. There might be a better chance at getting a clear day in August, but fog is pretty normal throughout the year. Always bring a jacket, because the ocean breeze and make it feel much cooler than what the temperature says.
August is Southern California’s hottest month typically, so be prepared for 90 degree weather. Humidity is not a concern like Florida, but most of DLR’s queues are outside, so be wear sunscreen.
August pro’s are F! and fireworks every night and lighter crowds. Look at the Disneyland AP blackout calendar and try and come before the local AP’s are allowed back in. Once the AP’s are back, all bets are off on crowds. At that point they have been not allowed in for a couple of months and they need their DL fix. https://disneyland.disney.go.com/passes/blockout-dates/
August cons are the warmer weather and there will likely be more attractions down for refurb. HM goes down in August to convert to its overlay and overall August is a popular month to refurbing attractions. August is really a transition month for the resort as winds down from the busy summer to beginning to get ready for Halloween.
March pro’s are nicer weather and while fireworks are less often, Remember Dreams Come True is going during this time and it is the much better fireworks show. The summer show Magical is not that Magical comparatively speaking. Spring is also arguably the prettiest time of the year at the resort as spring flowers are in bloom. Really Christmas time is the best, but non holiday wise, spring is tops.
March con’s are likely bigger crowds because of Spring Break. It shouldn’t be crazy busy though.

 

[GiveMeTheMusic]

Remember Dreams Come True (fireworks) won't be playing next year, and it's likely Magical won't be either - there is going to be a new fireworks show for the 60th anniversary, which kicks off sometime next spring.

 

[Pooh'sBuddy]

The potential for rehabs and closures did give me a moment of concern, but I think that's the only con for August. Touring plans and the blockout website agree on the lifted passholder restrictions, but touring plans gives those August dates (this year, so presuming the same for 2015) threes, fours and fives.

I'm ecstatic with the thought of seeing any DL firework show, and a 60th Anniversary is icing on the cake. I'm from Texas, and anything below 70 degrees is cold for me, and 90 degree highs sound do-able.

Thank you both for your views. I appreciate your helping met out.

 

[GiveMeTheMusic]

The potential for rehabs and closures did give me a moment of concern, but I think that's the only con for August. Touring plans and the blockout website agree on the lifted passholder restrictions, but touring plans gives those August dates (this year, so presuming the same for 2015) threes, fours and fives.

I'm ecstatic with the thought of seeing any DL firework show, and a 60th Anniversary is icing on the cake. I'm from Texas, and anything below 70 degrees is cold for me, and 90 degree highs sound do-able.

Thank you both for your views. I appreciate your helping met out.

It's unlikely that you'll encounter many refurbs (if any) as they normally don't occur during summer - this year is completely out of whack for a few reasons (budget freeze at the beginning of the year, plus prep for the 60th). I'd expect the biggies to be in operation next summer, especially with the 60th marketing push in full force.

 

[Pooh'sBuddy]

It's unlikely that you'll encounter many refurbs (if any) as they normally don't occur during summer - this year is completely out of whack for a few reasons (budget freeze at the beginning of the year, plus prep for the 60th). I'd expect the biggies to be in operation next summer, especially with the 60th marketing push in full force.

I can understand HM needing time for the overlay, so I'd be sad, but it's gotta happen at some point. I'm beyond excited to visit DL and DCA and will consider it a success to do Radiator Springs Racers (twice), Matterhorn, Indy and California Screamin'. Maybe the line for Anna and Elsa won't be as long by then.

 

[GiveMeTheMusic]

I can understand HM needing time for the overlay, so I'd be sad, but it's gotta happen at some point. I'm beyond excited to visit DL and DCA and will consider it a success to do Radiator Springs Racers (twice), Matterhorn, Indy and California Screamin'. Maybe the line for Anna and Elsa won't be as long by then.

HM doesn't usually go down until late August. Last year it closed on August 26, so if you can manage to get there before that time you'll still catch it.