Disney World in November (2024): A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning to visit Disney World in November 2024? 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 2024 vacation.

The November Advantage: Disney World 2024

Here’s why November 2024 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 during 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 2024:

A toy solider stands watch over Christmas at Magic Kingdom

Many exciting events and celebrations will occur at Disney World in November 2024. Here are a few important dates to keep in mind:

• Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend (October 31 – November 3, 2024): A blend of fitness and fine food, this event adds a distinct ambiance to the park.
• Jersey Week (November 3-9, 2024): Although not a Disney event per se, the NJEA Convention (November 7-8, 2024) 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 (starts early November): Kick off the holiday season with exclusive parades, shows, and fireworks, select nights in November and December. Exact dates not yet announced.
• Veterans Day & Start of Holidays at Disney World (November 11, 2024): A two-fold celebration honoring veterans and signaling the beginning of the festive season.
• Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios (will it return in 2024?): November 2023 marked the first-ever ticketed holiday event at Hollywood Studios, on select nights in November and December 2023. We’re awaiting word on whether it will return in 2024.
• End of Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (ends November 23, 2024): 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.
• Thanksgiving Week (November 23 – December 1, 2024): A popular family vacation time with Thanksgiving falling on November 28th, 2024.
• ESPN Events (Thanksgiving Weekend): Sporting events at ESPN Wide World of Sports could lead to busier Disney Value Resorts like All-Star Sports.
• Start of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays (estimated to start November 29, 2024): Welcome a heartwarming tradition celebrating holidays around the world at Epcot. It usually begins on the day after Thanksgiving.

Stay tuned for further date announcements affecting November 2024. 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: Falling on a Monday in 2024, this holiday can lead to an uptick in visitors, especially if schools or workplaces have a long weekend.
• 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 2024 can expect to spend approximately $6,559, which includes Value Resort accommodations, six-day theme park tickets, Genie+ service, and Quick Service meals. The cost of a Disney trip in November 2024 will likely rise above this year-round average estimate, especially for travel dates well within the heart of the holiday season.

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

Ticket Prices

November base ticket prices (which can increase by as much as $30 depending on which park is chosen), start at $144 in November 2024. Starting prices max out at $164 in November 2024. The days surrounding Thanksgiving are the most expensive.

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 falling in between the weekday and weekend rates.

In the example below, we look at starting rates for a standard room at All Star Sports (a Disney Value Resort) in November 2024. Mondays-Wednesdays in the first 2/3rds of the month are as low as $156, with weekends at $189-$201. Thanksgiving week (and a few days before/after) comes in at $210 per night.

The prices shown will increase depending on the type of room, the type of hotel chosen, and how long you wait to book (as Disney’s hotel prices tend to increase over time and are not locked in until you confirm your reservation).

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 2024

There are fewer refurbishments and maintenance projects during November as parks prepare for Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Short-term projects are usually completed by mid-month when the parks are starting to get ready for holiday crowds. Disney also tries to have its newest theme park rides open by either summer time or the holiday rush. Here’s what we now so far.

Theme Parks and Attractions

• Christmas Décor: Following the conclusion of Halloween events on or around November 1, the Christmas decorating season begins and will continue throughout the month.
• Test Track (EPCOT): Closed starting June 17, 2024 for a major refresh. Opening date not yet announced, but a similar refresh in 2012 took almost 8 months; if this refurbishment follows the same pattern, it would reopen around January/February 2025.
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Magic Kingdom): This Splash Mountain replacement is due to open June 28, 2024 and should therefore be operating during your November 2024 vacation.
• Voyage of the Little Mermaid (Hollywood Studios): This stage show never reopened following the COVID-19 pandemic closure, and is now being re-imagined into a new show. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is expected to debut in fall 2024.

Resort Hotels and Amenities

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Significant refurbishment work to Guest rooms is scheduled from September 2024 to September 2025. While the resort will remain open, Guests will likely see and hear construction work throughout the Bay Lake Tower building. Guests are advised to allow extra travel time when walking in the area, as alternate paths may be used.
• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground (Cabins): The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness will be refurbished and become a separate DVC property. The first of the new cabins will have opened on July 1, 2024, but additional work is possible through the remainder of the year. (Note: this refurbishment applies to the Cabins at Fort Wilderness, not the Cabins at Wilderness Lodge/Copper Creek Villas)
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Construction continues on a new Disney Vacation Club tower on the site of the former Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. Its grand opening is expected in December 2024.
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter: Some Guest rooms will be under refurbishment from May 2024 through November 2024. Most resort amenities will remain available, but construction may be seen/heard.

Transportation, Water Parks, Golf Courses, and More

• Disney Water Parks: Only one of the two parks (Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon) typically operates at a time, with the other being closed. See Water Parks section below for further info.

These details are 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.

Disney World Water Parks in November (2024): 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 2024:

• Operational Trends: In recent years, Disney has implemented a rotating schedule for its water parks, with only one open at a time. Here’s a recent operating schedule history:
  • 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.
• Seasonal Themes: Since 2022, Blizzard Beach has adopted a holiday theme, expected to continue in 2024. If the current schedule holds, Typhoon Lagoon will generally operate from spring to fall, with Blizzard Beach taking over from fall to spring.
• November 2024 Forecast: Based on these trends, we expect that Typhoon Lagoon will likely operate for the first week or two of November 2024, replaced by Blizzard Beach for the last part of the month. 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.

What is the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon?

The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, taking place from October 31 – November 3, 2024, brings 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.

We’re awaiting 2024’s details, but here’s what the 2023 event looked like:

Participants could join the Alice in Wonderland-themed 5K, a kooky tea party dash, or respond to the dinner bell at the Be Our Guest-themed 10K. For those seeking a more substantial challenge, the Encanto-themed Half Marathon summoned Luisa’s strength to tackle the course. The most dedicated runners could engage in the Disney Two Course Challenge, completing both the 10K and Half Marathon to earn Figment’s topsy-turvy kitchen medal. The 2023 half-marathon weekend concluded with a global cuisine Post-Race Party – a real Banquet Bash. Runners could also join the virtual races and run in their own locations.

Although half-marathon weekends typically bring an influx of runners, they don’t significantly affect park crowds. In fact, they may even slightly decrease.

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, as it does on a Monday in 2024, it could attract more vacationers looking to make use of the extended weekend.

However, when Veterans Day occurs mid-week (as it does in 2025 and 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.

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 over 18 diverse global marketplaces spread throughout Epcot’s World Showcase, each replicating the flavors of different cultures.

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 28, 2024), holds considerable significance in the United States. Many people enjoy a long weekend with Thursday and Friday off work or school; some families or schools even extend the break to the preceding 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. 2024 dates are not yet announced, but the first party in 2023 was on November 9.

The magic doesn’t stop at the Magic Kingdom; other parks join the cheer with their own spectacular events. There’s the “Flurry of Fun” at Hollywood Studios, the vibrant Holiday Celebrations at Animal Kingdom, and Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays beginning the day after Thanksgiving. Additionally, we’re awaiting to see if the brand new ticketed “Jollywood Nights” event will return to Hollywood Studios in 2024.

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.

If you would like to purchase tickets for holiday ticketed events (including Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party), 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.