Disney World in November (2026): A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning to visit Disney World in November 2026? This comprehensive guide is your one-stop source for all you need to know. From highlighting key dates and thrilling events to providing weather forecasts, crowd expectations, and insider tips, we’ve covered everything to make your November visit successful. Whether you’re still juggling with dates or have them set in stone, this guide will help you unlock the full magic of Disney World during your November 2026 vacation.

The November Advantage: Disney World 2026

Here’s why November 2026 can be a fantastic time to visit Disney World:

• Weather: With the transition to cooler winter months, average temperatures range from a comfortable 79°F high to a cooler 57°F low. You’ll also find less humidity and rainfall compared to the summer months.
• Crowds: November generally offers a more relaxed experience with smaller crowd sizes, especially earlier in the month. There are some exceptions, which we note below.
• Food & Wine Festival: If you visit early enough in November, you can still experience Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival – a highlight for food lovers.
• Holiday Makeover: November marks the onset of the festive season at Disney World. You can enjoy magical events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and beautiful holiday decorations that start appearing in the parks.
• Pricing: Early November can be a cost-effective time. Value Resorts often offer lower rates, and room discounts may be available.

In summary, November at Disney World offers pleasant weather, manageable crowds, festive activities, culinary experiences, and potential savings, making it an enticing time to visit. More details on these aspects will follow below.

November’s Potential Downsides:

Here are some potential drawbacks of visiting Disney World in November:

• Crowd Size: One of the main challenges in November is the varying crowd sizes. While the early part of the month generally sees manageable crowd numbers, the visitor count can increase around Veterans Day and Thanksgiving week.
• School Holidays: With many schools observing breaks around Thanksgiving, an influx of families at Disney World can result in longer queues and wait times. This will affect the overall park experience, so strategic planning may be necessary.
• Pricing: Another factor to consider is the fluctuating prices. Prices can increase during popular holiday periods, such as Thanksgiving, which could affect your vacation budget. It is possible to find occasional discounts and promotions, but these may not always coincide with your travel dates.
• Weather: Generally, November weather is pleasant. However, cooler evenings may surprise those accustomed to Florida’s heat. Additionally, there’s a minimal risk of hurricanes in November.

The best way to avoid these downsides is to plan carefully and set realistic expectations for your November Disney World visit. We will elaborate on these challenges in the following sections.

Key Dates and Events for Disney World, November 2026:

A toy solider stands watch over Christmas at Magic Kingdom

Many exciting events and celebrations will occur at Disney World in November 2026. Here are a few important dates to keep in mind:

• Jersey Week (November 1-7, 2026): Although not a Disney event per se, the NJEA Convention (November 5-6, 2026) often causes higher crowds at Disney because most New Jersey schools are out for at least part of the week.
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (select nights starting early November 2026): Kick off the holiday season with exclusive parades, shows, and fireworks, select nights in November and December. 2026 dates are TBD, but 2025’s first party was on November 7.
• Veterans Day & Start of Holidays at Disney World (November 11, 2026): A two-fold celebration honoring veterans and signaling the beginning of the festive season.
• Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios (select nights starting in early November 2026): The separately-ticketed holiday event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios typically starts in early November (2025’s first party was on November 8) and continues on select nights throughout November and December.
• End of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (ends late November): Your final chance to partake in this global gastronomic event before the food booths are converted over to “holiday kitchens” during the International Festival of the Holidays. 2026 dates are TBD, but the 2025 festival ended on November 22.
• Thanksgiving Week (November 21 – 29, 2026): A popular family vacation time with Thanksgiving falling on November 26, 2026.
• ESPN Events (Thanksgiving Weekend): Sporting events at ESPN Wide World of Sports could lead to busier Disney Value Resorts like All-Star Sports.
• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (expected to start November 27, 2026): Welcome a heartwarming tradition celebrating holidays around the world at Epcot. Usually starts the day after Thanksgiving.
• Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend (NOT in November for 2026?): This race, which has historically been held around Veterans Day in November, moved to late October for 2025. 2026’s date is TBD, so we don’t yet know if it will stay in late October for another year or return to November. Its 2025 removal to another month may have helped slightly ease crowds otherwise inflated by Jersey Week and the Veterans Day holiday period.

Stay tuned for further date announcements affecting November 2026. Please note that these events may affect crowds, resort availability, and your overall Disney experience.

Will Disney World be Crowded in November?

November is the seventh or eighth busiest month of the year at Disney World and offers an exciting yet unpredictable crowd pattern. Generally, November’s first half is slightly below average, while its second half is above average, with some exceptions. This variability can be explained by:

• Veterans Day: This holiday can lead to an uptick in visitors, especially if schools or workplaces have a long weekend. But it falls on a Wednesday in 2026, making that less likely.
• Thanksgiving: A major holiday in late November, Thanksgiving always attracts a lot of families. You can expect large crowds between the weekend before Thanksgiving and the Monday following Thanksgiving.
• School Breaks: Different schools have varying schedules for their breaks, making the crowd levels unpredictable on a day-to-day basis.
• Special Events: November hosts several events, including the Half Marathon, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Jollywood Nights, and the end of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. However, the impact of these events on overall crowd size is typically limited.

Given these variables, it can be challenging to predict crowds in November. For the latest information and advice on managing your visit during these periods, visit our Disney World Crowd Calendar and Tips for Avoiding Disney World Lines.

Disney World Prices in November

Several factors can affect the cost of a Disney World vacation in November. Depending on the day or week, you may find prices ranging from below-average to above-average. Here are a few highlights:

• Seasonality: November sees a dynamic pricing environment. Early in the month, especially at Value Resorts, rates may dip below average due to lower demand from families traveling to Disney with school-age children. Conversely, Disney Moderate Resorts and Disney Deluxe Resorts might see premium pricing due to their appeal to guests traveling without children.
• Veterans Day: Contrary to some other holidays, Veterans Day doesn’t significantly drive up prices.
• Thanksgiving Impact: Be prepared for a substantial increase in prices around Thanksgiving. A slight reduction occurs immediately after the holiday, but prices start to rise again in the final days of November as December (peak season) approaches.
• Discounts: There are generally no month-long promotions in November. You may encounter scattered room discounts or free dining offers, but careful planning is essential to avoid peak holiday and weekend pricing.
• Average Costs: A family of four staying for a week at Disney World in 2025 could expect to spend approximately $6,785, which includes Value Resort accommodations, six-day theme park tickets, Lightning Lane passes, and Quick Service meals. The cost of a Disney trip in November 2026 will likely rise above this year-round average estimate—especially for travel dates well within the heart of the holiday season—when you consider typical yearly price increases.

Our Disney World Cost Calculator can help estimate your trip expenses.

Ticket Prices

November base ticket prices start at $164 in November 2026—but only for a select few weekdays within the first two weeks of the month. Most days of the month start at $174 and higher, with starting prices maxing out at $184 around Thanksgiving.

These prices refer solely to One Day, One Park tickets (no park hopping) and are “starting” prices—typically valid just for Animal Kingdom. Magic Kingdom prices can be as much as $30 higher, with EPCOT and Hollywood Studios usually somewhere in between.

Options such as park hopper or water park add-ons will increase the cost further. Conversely, you can often get a lower per-day cost by purchasing multi-day tickets.

Hotel Prices

Savings can be found for hotel rooms in November if your travel plans are flexible. Unsurprisingly, prices are highest in the days surrounding Thanksgiving. For the earlier parts of the month, the cheapest nights to stay are usually Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays; Fridays and Saturdays cost more, with Thursdays and Sundays serving as a “shoulder” (falling in between the weekday and weekend rates).

Here are a few hotel rate examples for November 2026, which should be treated as a “snapshot in time”—they’re accurate as of the date we published this article but will almost certainly change. Prices tend to go up as travel dates approach, and there are huge swings depending on which resort you pick, which room type you book, and what day of the week / week of the month you book. Booking early usually ensures the best possible prices.

• Wednesday, November 4, 2026:
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $157
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $375
  • BoardWalk Inn (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $714
• Saturday, November 14, 2026:
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $263
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $368
  • BoardWalk Inn (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $787
• Thursday, November 26, 2026 (Thanksgiving):
  • All-Star Sports (Value Resort): Starting at $211
  • Port Orleans French Quarter (Moderate Resort): Starting at $376
  • BoardWalk Inn (Deluxe Resort): Starting at $860

Disney World Weather in November: What to Expect

The weather at Disney World in November is generally delightful, with falling temperatures and easing humidity that mark the shift toward the cooler winter months.

• Temperature: The average highs are around 79°F (26°C), and lows are near 57°F (14°C), providing a comfortable climate for theme park exploration.
• Rainfall: With an average of just four rainy days and a total rainfall of roughly 1.99 inches, showers are brief and infrequent in November.
• Hurricane Season: November is still technically part of Florida’s hurricane season, but the risk is significantly lower, and Disney World has never closed due to a hurricane in November.
• Cool Evenings: November nights can feel chilly, particularly for those used to Florida’s warmer months. It’s wise to pack a few extra layers for the cooler evenings.
• Heat and Rain: Heat is less of a concern, but it’s good to be prepared for potentially warmer days and light showers. Remember, occasional rain is part of the Florida experience and typically doesn’t last long.

In a nutshell, November offers a mild climate, less rainfall, and minimal hurricane risk, making it an ideal time for a Disney World vacation. Make sure you review your Disney packing list before you leave home.

Ride Maintenance, Closures, Refurbishments, and Openings in November 2026

There are usually fewer refurbishments and maintenance projects during November as parks prepare for Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Short-term projects are often completed by mid-month when the parks are starting to get ready for holiday crowds. But we’re currently in a period of rapid expansion, so some of these usual “rules” aren’t quite as reliable for now.

Visit our Disney World Refurbishment and Closure Calendar to see a list of work scheduled during your November visit.

You might also be interested in our list of New Rides and Upcoming Openings. Disney is adding multiple new lands and attractions, and you won’t want to miss out!

Remember, schedules are always subject to change. We recommended checking with Disney World’s customer service or contacting a reputable Disney travel agency like The Vacationeer for the latest information.

Early Park Closures in November 2026

November marks the start of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Magic Kingdom) and Jollywood Nights (Hollywood Studios). That means early park closures at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios on some nights later in the month.

On days when these parties are held—typically as often as twice per week at Hollywood Studios and four times per week at Magic Kingdom—the parks may close shortly after sunset for anyone who doesn’t have a party ticket. So be sure to check park schedules as your trip date approaches.

Most tourists without party tickets prefer to avoid the park on party days (because of the shorter hours). But just ask any local (or an expert like The Vacationeer), and they’ll tell you that crowds are often significantly lower on those days so you might be able to ride more things despite the shorter hours.

Disney World Water Parks in November (2026): What to Expect

Disney World offers two fun water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, each with unique themes and attractions. Here’s what you can expect if you’re planning a visit in November 2026:

Operational Trends: Since the pandemic, Disney has implemented a rotating schedule for its water parks, with only one open at a time. But they broke that trend for summer 2025. Here’s a recent operating schedule history as well as currently announced future plans:

• November 13, 2022: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• March 19, 2023: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• November 6, 2023: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• March 17, 2024: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• November 4, 2024: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• May 1, 2025: Typhoon Lagoon opens and Blizzard Beach closes.
• May 21, 2025: Typhoon Lagoon remains open as Blizzard Beach reopens.
  • BOTH water parks were open from May 21, 2025 – September 7, 2025 for the summer rush, something that hadn’t happened since before the pandemic.
• September 8, 2025: Blizzard Beach closes and Typhoon Lagoon remains open.

If the schedule pattern from recent years holds, Typhoon Lagoon will generally operate from spring to fall, with Blizzard Beach taking over from fall to spring. But as mentioned above, summer 2025 broke that pattern and it’s not yet clear what will happen after that.

We would normally expect Typhoon Lagoon to be open for the first week of November, followed by Blizzard Beach for the remainder of the month. But that pattern did not materialize for November 2025 so it’s hard to predict for November 2026.

Schedules are always subject to change. Consider including a water park visit on your Disney World trip this November. The Vacationeer can help you plan your trip and provide information on Disney’s water parks.

Missing from November 2026?—Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon

The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, has historically taken place around the first or second week of November, bringing together physical activity and Disney magic. This event features races inspired by Disney’s culinary adventures, adding an athletic twist to the magical atmosphere of Disney World.

However, its placement proved somewhat problematic for crowd sizes, as it typically fell right alongside Veterans Day, Jersey Week, and the last week of EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival.

Disney appeared to be attempting to spread the crowds out a bit for 2025—the half marathon was moved to late October that year. 2026’s dates have not yet been announced, so it’s unclear if it will stay in late October for 2026 or return to mid-November.

Veterans Day Impact on November Visits

Veterans Day, which is celebrated every year on November 11th, can have an impact on the crowd levels at Disney World. When it falls on (or near) a weekend, it could attract more vacationers looking to make use of an extended weekend.

However, when Veterans Day occurs closer to mid-week (as it does in 2026), it mainly draws in locals, creating just a single moderately busy day. Even with these fluctuations, it’s important to note that Veterans Day typically has little impact on Disney World’s prices.

Veterans Day has a less pronounced effect on crowd patterns than other holidays, making it a great time to visit Disney in November. Be sure to take in the Flag Retreat ceremony at Magic Kingdom; while it occurs daily, it always takes on special significance during patriotic holidays.

Final Days of Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival

November is a time of transformation for Epcot as it moves through three different stages. It kicks off the month with the International Food & Wine Festival, enters a brief festival-free period during the Thanksgiving crowd surge, and finally transitions into the International Festival of the Holidays.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, an annual culinary extravaganza, typically stretches through at least half of November. Therefore, those visiting Epcot in November can usually enjoy the last days of this global culinary showcase.

Although the festival is popular, November usually has fewer crowds at the event, so it’s the ideal time to go. You will be able to sample food and drinks from dozens of diverse global marketplaces spread throughout Epcot’s World Showcase, each replicating the flavors of different cultures.

Just don’t wait too long! The 2025 Food & Wine festival ended on November 22, 2025. 2026’s dates are still TBD.

Included in your Epcot admission are numerous highlights like the popular “Eat to the Beat” Concerts, engaging exhibits, and exciting meet-and-greets with celebrity chefs. Additionally, extra-cost events are available to enhance your festival experience further.

My friend Serena, who attended the festival last November, said, “I especially enjoyed the food and beverage pairings and the cooking demonstrations. It wasn’t crowded at all. I would love to bring my mom next year!”

Remember, while festival access is included with regular Epcot admission, the food and beverages from the festival are an additional cost.

Thanksgiving: A Special Time at Disney World in November

Thanksgiving – celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November (November 26, 2026), holds considerable significance in the United States. Many people enjoy a long weekend with Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday off work or school; some families or schools even extend the break to the entire holiday week.

The influx of families during this time can lead to increased crowds and slightly higher prices around the holiday period. Although Disney World itself doesn’t host notable Thanksgiving celebrations, several restaurants may offer special meals to mark the occasion. However, by this time, the resort is already busy with Christmas and winter holiday activities.

Experience Christmas at Disney World in November

November signals the start of the enchanting Christmas season at Walt Disney World. The decorations begin appearing right after Halloween, gradually transforming the Magic Kingdom over the first few days of the month into a winter wonderland.

The first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in early November serves as the beginning of the holiday season at Disney World. Other parks join the cheer with their own spectacular events. There’s Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios on select dates throughout the month, the vibrant Holiday Celebrations at Animal Kingdom, and Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays beginning the day after Thanksgiving.

Resort hotels are the final touch to this holiday transformation, typically completing their décor by mid-November. From this point forward, the spirit of Christmas permeates the entire resort until the end of the year. Christmas magic will be in full swing whether you visit Disney World in mid-November or mid-December.

For full details on all the holiday fun, check out our Christmas at Disney World article. And if you would like to purchase tickets for holiday ticketed events, contact The Vacationeer.

Is November the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

When asked about the best time to visit Disney World, November often ranks very high on my list. Here’s why.

Firstly, the weather is just right. As the summer heat fades, pleasant, comfortable temperatures set in, ideal for daytime park exploration and evening activities.

The first few weeks of November are calmer, so you can enjoy popular attractions without waiting in long lines. My wife, Jaimie, and I particularly enjoy the relative calm before Thanksgiving week.

November also hosts the last leg of Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival and the start of the park’s transformation for Christmas. Although we believe the full festive spirit is best experienced in December, Christmas enthusiasts may appreciate November’s less crowded holiday events.

Generally, November doesn’t experience a significant rise in prices. However, due to high demand, costs tend to increase during Thanksgiving week and the month’s end. Even though Veterans Day sees more visitors, it doesn’t usually affect prices much.

Ultimately, the first few weeks of November present a well-balanced blend of comfortable weather, manageable crowds, reasonable pricing, and a mix of seasonal events. Even Thanksgiving week during school break may still be an intriguing option for festive family vacations with great weather, despite increased crowds and prices. Some may view November’s Christmas celebrations as premature (like Jaimie and me), but others may see them as a delightful preview.

In my opinion, November is a fantastic time to visit. Is it the right month for you? Let The Vacationeer help you decide.

Comparing Disney World in November to Neighboring Months

When planning your Disney World adventure, it’s helpful to compare November with its neighboring months, October and December:

• October vs. November: October offers pleasant weather and moderate crowds, with fun events like Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. However, transitioning into November, these activities wrap up, and the park begins its Christmas makeover. The weather in November is slightly more pleasant than in October, but the number of visitors can increase due to Veterans Day and Thanksgiving week. My wife Jamie and I enjoy the early November tranquility before the holiday rush starts. Yet, the latter half of November might be more appealing for those keen to begin their Christmas festivities early.
• November vs. December: November presents a mix of fall and early winter experiences, with the commencement of Christmas events such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. In contrast, December dives headfirst into the holiday spirit, hosting grander festivities. While Jaimie and I think early November is a bit soon for Christmas, holiday enthusiasts might find it perfect. Be aware that crowd levels and prices are more manageable in November, excluding Thanksgiving, but tend to peak in December around Christmas and New Year.

Overall, early November can offer a balanced, less crowded, and relatively affordable Disney World experience, ideal for those wanting a mix of fall and winter festivities. Despite higher crowds and prices, you can achieve a truly magical Christmas experience during the latter part of November and December.

Our month-by-month Disney World guides are useful resources for planning your vacation. They’re designed to provide you with detailed information on events, pricing trends, crowd sizes, weather, and new attractions for each month.

Discover the best month for your Disney vacation with our comprehensive guides to the other months of the year:

• Disney World in January
• Disney World in February
• Disney World in March
• Disney World in April
• Disney World in May
• Disney World in June
• Disney World in July
• Disney World in August
• Disney World in September
• Disney World in October
• Disney World in December

Whether you’re a Disney first-timer or a seasoned enthusiast, our guides will help you plan a Disney vacation that’s tailored to your specific needs and preferences.