Use this helpful guide to familiarize yourself with January crowd levels at Walt Disney World. We cover crowd levels, weather, frequently asked questions, as well as Resort booking windows.
January is a great time to visit Walt Disney World because of the lingering Christmas decorations, lower crowds, and mild temperatures. The busiest times in January at Walt Disney World is right around New Years and the last week of January as the February Vacation crowds begin to increase. Disney removes the Christmas decorations around mid-January so if you’d like to see them before they’re gone, be sure to book within the first two weeks of January. Around the time that the Christmas decorations come down, EPCOT International Festival of the Arts begins.
Use this crowd calendar to save time and money by finding the perfect time to book your trip.
January Weather
The typical weather at Disney World in January is a high of 72° with a low 51° (F). It usually rains about 4 days. Because the temperatures are lower in the morning, hot in the afternoon, and cooler after sunset, we recommend to dress in layers so you can be comfortable throughout the day.
Noteworthy January Dates
- January 1-4 – Busiest time in January due to New Years celebration.
- January 16-21 – Crowds slightly increase around Martin Luther King Jr. Day Weekend.
- January 22-31 – Crowds build as February nears.
For a full year’s worth of information, be sure to check out our Disney World crowd calendar. Dining reservations begin 180 days prior to the date if you are staying on property at a Disney Resort.
How busy is Disney World in January?
January typically experiences light crowds for most of the month with the exception of New Years Day at the start of the month and at the end of the month crowds begin to build from February travelers.
When is the best time to visit Disney World in January?
Aim for the second or third week of January if you can. Disney leaves the Christmas decorations up until mid-January so if you get there early enough in the month you can experience all of the Christmas décor at a fraction of the cost!
How busy is Disney World during New Years Eve?
Disney World is very busy for New Years Eve. Every Park besides Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a firework show at midnight. Therefore if you are looking to explore Disney’s Animal Kingdom with lower than average crowds, check it out during New Years Eve!
How busy is Disney World during New Years Day?
Just like with New Years Eve, New Years Day is another popular day at the parks where you’ll experience heavy crowd levels and increased resort prices.
