Disney World in October (2024): A Comprehensive Guide

Here is the ultimate guide to Disney World in October 2024. You’ll learn key dates, exciting events, weather forecasts, crowd predictions, and useful tips for your October trip. Whether you’re still weighing your dates or have already booked them, this comprehensive guide covers all the details you need to know about planning a Disney World vacation in October 2024.

The October Advantage: Disney World 2024

October is a compelling month to visit Disney World in 2024. With most children back in school, the parks are typically less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed Disney experience.

The Florida weather in October delivers a welcome break from the summer’s intense heat. Temperatures are comfortably warm, making it a joy to explore the parks, watch parades, and dine outdoors. This pleasant weather significantly enhances the appeal of an October visit.

In terms of budgeting, October offers average pricing that avoids the high rates of peak seasons and the lower cost of off-peak times. This balanced cost structure allows visitors to experience Disney’s magic without straining their budgets.

October also marks a special time at Disney World, thanks to the Halloween-themed festivities. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party transforms Magic Kingdom into a delightful Halloween spectacle, offering an added layer of fun.

Fireworks during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party | Image © Disney

Additionally, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival presents a global culinary experience that continues through October. These unique elements make October an excellent choice for your Disney World adventure.

October’s Potential Downsides:

There are many benefits to visiting Disney World in October, but it’s also important to consider the downsides. For families with school-aged children, October can be challenging to travel since schools are typically in session, with Columbus Day being the exception.

Crowd levels in October are typically average or lower, but they tend to surge during Columbus Day weekend. The long weekend is a popular time for families to plan their getaways.

While October’s weather is more comfortable than the summer months, it can still be warm for some guests. Afternoon showers are a common occurrence, although they are usually brief.

Finally, October remains within the Atlantic hurricane season. The threat is diminished compared to August and September, but it’s a factor to consider when planning your visit.

Despite these considerations, October can still provide a magical Disney World experience with careful planning and a flexible mindset. Every month at Disney World offers its unique blend of advantages and considerations, and the best choice depends on individual preferences and circumstances.

Disney World Key Dates and Events, October 2024

If you’re planning a Disney World visit in October 2024, take note of these highlights:

• Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day Weekend (October 10-15, 2024): This weekend typically brings an increase in visitor numbers, making it the busiest weekend in October at Disney World. It is still a pleasant time to visit despite the increased crowds (which are similar to June’s levels). The holiday falls on October 14th in 2024.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (August 29 – November 23, 2024): As the core month of the Festival, October presents guests with the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious international foods and beverages. While it attracts larger crowds, particularly on weekends, these are often locals and do not significantly affect the other parks.
• Halloween Festivities: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party continues on select nights through October, culminating on October 31. The Magic Kingdom transforms into a family-friendly Halloween haven, a feature that adds an extra layer of excitement to October visits.
• Possible Sports Tournaments: ESPN Wide World of Sports rarely hosts events in October due to fall sports being mid-season. However, if a Columbus Day weekend sports tournament is held, it may result in increased crowd levels, especially among young visitors at Disney Value Resorts like All-Star Sports.

These events have the potential to impact crowd levels, resort availability, and the overall Disney experience. Therefore, planning your October Disney World vacation should take these events into account.

Will Disney World be Crowded in October?

According to our data analysis, October is the 9th least crowded month at Disney World. While predicting crowd levels for October 2024, it’s essential to consider several factors, including the school calendar, weather conditions, special events, and holiday weekends.

• School Calendar: As most schools in the U.S. are in full swing in October, family visits to Disney World tend to decrease, leading to smaller crowds overall.
• Weather: The comfortable, warm climate in Florida during October makes it an ideal time for those seeking pleasant weather. While the weather is a draw for some, it does not significantly increase park attendance.
• Columbus Day Weekend: Visitor numbers often surge during the Columbus Day weekend as families use the long weekend for a quick getaway. Aside from this brief period, most of the month sees average or below-average crowds.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival: While this renowned event attracts many visitors (especially locals) to Epcot in October, it doesn’t dramatically impact the crowd levels at the other parks.
• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: Occurring on select nights throughout October, this event can cause an uptick in evening crowds at the Magic Kingdom.

Outside of Columbus Day weekend and certain event nights, the crowd levels are generally manageable, making October a desirable time to visit Disney World in 2024. This harmonious blend of favorable weather and lower crowds creates a pleasant Disney experience. See our Disney World Crowd Calendar and Avoid Lines at Disney World article for more insights.

Disney World Prices in October

Disney World’s pricing in October 2024 depends on seasonality, school calendars (holidays), and available promotions. October typically offers average pricing, with some nuances:

• Seasonality: October is nestled between the busy summer and the upcoming holiday season. This leads to roughly average prices overall, with Value Resorts tending to stay below average for most of the month due to decreased demand from families whose children are in school.
• Holiday Impact: There is usually a modest increase in prices around Columbus Day and Halloween. However, Disney Value Resorts and Disney Moderate Resorts tend to remain relatively stable or even decline throughout the month.
• Discounts: October’s discount pattern is less predictable, with the Disney Free Dining offer (in years when it occurs) sometimes ending in this month. Although discounts ranging from 10% to 25% are common, more discount blackout dates exist in October than in previous months. Discounts can vary depending on the hotel, room type, and availability.
• Average Costs: As an indication, the average cost for a family of four staying for a week at Disney World in 2024, including accommodation at a Value Resort, six-day theme park tickets, Lightning Lane access, and Quick Service meals, is estimated at $6,559. October 2024 pricing will likely remain generally in line with this year-round average estimate.

Hotel Costs

Hotel rooms can usually be found at Disney World in October for as low as $162 per night, with Fridays and Saturdays being as high as a $231 starting price.

These are merely starting prices; they’ll increase depending on the hotel and room chosen, as well as based on price changes due to occupancy rates. Booking early usually ensures the best possible prices.

On a broader scale, October’s hotel prices are found to be generally in line with prices for the months before and after.

Ticket Costs

While there are few differences between September/November hotel prices and those in October, theme park ticket prices are another story entirely.

October theme park tickets cost significantly more than just one month before.

While September offers plenty of days at $109, the lowest ticket prices in October are $144 — and those are scarce. $149 is a more common price point.

Remember that the ticket prices shown here are for one-day, one-park tickets and are merely starting prices. Ticket prices will increase depending on which park is chosen (Animal Kingdom is typically cheapest, with Magic Kingdom costing up to $30 more). Adding additional days or options such as park hopping can also increase the price.

You can use our Disney World Cost Calculator can help estimate trip expenses based on your travel preferences.

Disney World Weather in October: What to Expect

October at Disney World brings milder temperatures and decreased humidity, offering a welcome respite from summer’s heat. Here’s what to expect during this early autumn season:

Temperature: During October at Disney World, the average high temperature is approximately 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius), while the average low drops to about 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius). The onset of fall introduces a noticeable cooling trend compared to the prior months.

Milder Weather: With the arrival of autumn, October brings milder and more pleasant weather overall, with less heat and humidity than September. This moderated weather promotes a more enjoyable park experience.

Rainfall: October typically sees precipitation on an average of 5 days throughout the month, with a total rainfall of about 3.07 inches. The showers are usually brief, providing a refreshing break from the heat.

Hurricane Season: October is technically still within Florida’s hurricane season, which stretches until the end of November. However, hurricane activity is much less likely in October than in September.

The combination of moderate temperatures and reduced humidity makes October a particularly pleasant time to visit Disney World. However, you should still consider hurricane risk before booking.

Preparation Tips for Disney World Weather in October:

Here are some tips to help you get ready for the weather at Disney World in October.

• Dress Appropriately: In October, daytime temperatures are usually in the 80s. So, your Disney World packing list should include light, breathable clothes. The evenings can be cooler, with temperatures sometimes in the 50s and 60s. Bring a light jacket or sweater for these times.
• Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself from the Sun: Even in October, you need to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can get free ice water at the parks. Apply sunscreen often, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Plan Your Day: Use Lightning Lanes passes to avoid standing in the sun for too long. Take breaks indoors in the middle of the day. Try indoor shows and attractions like Epcot’s American Adventure, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, the Pirates of the Caribbean attractions at Magic Kingdom, or the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror ride at Hollywood Studios.
• Be Ready for Rain: October has about 5 rainy days. Pack a light poncho and think about wearing waterproof shoes. If it does rain, there are lots of indoor attractions to enjoy. Check out our Disney Attractions to Escape the Rain page for more ideas.

Understanding October’s weather at Disney World, and planning accordingly, will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.  No matter the weather, Disney is always magical!

Hurricane Considerations for October Disney World Visits

While October marks the tail end of hurricane season, potential risks still exist. Consider these factors when planning your October 2024 Disney World visit:

• Historical Closures: Disney World parks have closed nine times in its history due to hurricanes, with just one instance occurring in October. However, as recent trends have shown increased closures in September and one in October 2016, you should take this into consideration.
• Safety: Advanced forecasts and Orlando’s inland location typically minimize safety concerns during hurricanes. Disney World’s infrastructure is built to withstand these storms. Despite this, park activities and dining options may be limited during closures.
• Inconvenience: Hurricanes can disrupt the magic of your Disney World experience. If parks and restaurants close, guests may end up confined to their rooms with basic meals and limited activities. Keep this in mind when booking your trip.
• Financial Considerations: Disney and airlines generally have policies in place to mitigate the financial impact of hurricanes. In cases of hurricane warnings for Orlando or your home area within seven days of your arrival, Disney offers the option to reschedule or cancel your reservation without penalty. Policies vary between airlines, and travel insurance could provide extra protection.
• Community Support: Disney World can become a safe haven for coastal Floridians during hurricanes. If you choose to leave, you free up resources for those who may need them more.

Booking with a trusted Disney travel agency such as The Vacationeer can help navigate potential disruptions, handling cancellations and refunds if needed.

Ride Maintenance, Refurbishments, Closures, and Openings in October 2024

Most of Disney World’s newest rides for the year will be open by October — but as the park gears up for the holiday crowd surge in November, the visitor lull in October presents the perfect opportunity for occasional minor routine ride refurbishments. Here’s what we know so far about October 2024:

Theme Parks and Attractions

• Early Park Closure (EPCOT): EPCOT is expected to close at 5PM (about four hours earlier than usual) on October 22, 2024; this is likely due to a private event inside the park. Operating hours at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom are not affected.
• Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade (Magic Kingdom): This nostalgic attraction’s last day of operation will be June 23, 2024; after that date, it will be permanently closed. The space will eventually reopen as a lounge for Disney Vacation Club members (unclear when).
• Jungle Cruise (Magic Kingdom): Closed starting August 26, 2024 for refurbishment. Scheduled to reopen on October 18, 2024.
• Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy (Hollywood Studios): Closed permanently starting October 7, 2024. To be replaced by a Disney villains show which opens in Summer 2025.
• 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): The Splash Mountain replacement opened June 28, 2024, so you should be able to count on it being open for your October 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 multiple projects around the resort, including a new Disney Vacation Club tower on the site of the former Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. The tower’s grand opening is expected in December 2024, while other work will continue through 2026.
• 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.
• Horseback Riding at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Starting July 13, 2024, horseback riding will be temporarily unavailable through November 2024.

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.

Note that maintenance schedules can change, and for the most accurate information, it’s advisable to contact Disney World customer service or your trusted travel planner, such as The Vacationeer.

Disney World Water Parks in October (2024): What to Expect

Disney World has two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, that are great for cooling off in Florida’s October heat. Each park has its own theme, attractions, and operating schedule. Here’s what to expect for your October 2024 visit:

• Operational Trends: Walt Disney World has alternated the operation of its two water parks in recent years. 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.
  • November 4, 2024: Blizzard Beach opens and Typhoon Lagoon closes.
• Annual Themes: Blizzard Beach has embraced a holiday theme since 2022, a pattern expected to continue in 2024. If this cycle persists, Typhoon Lagoon will likely remain open from spring to fall, followed by Blizzard Beach from fall to spring.
• October 2024 Outlook: Based on these trends, Typhoon Lagoon will likely be the only Disney water park open during October 2024. However, these predictions are based on past trends, and actual schedules may vary.

Adding a water park visit to your October Disney World trip can make it even more enjoyable. For more info on Disney’s water parks and help planning your trip, reach out to The Vacationeer.

Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival in October: A Personal Account

Visiting Disney World in October offers the unique opportunity to participate in Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival. The festival’s dates vary from year to year, but October is practically guaranteed to encompass the festival every year. This festival offers a wide range of global cuisines and beverages that delight the senses.

My friends Laura and Nick visited Disney World in October 2022 and raved about their experience at the festival. Each international food and drink booth in Epcot’s World Showcase was like a passport stamp, introducing them to the flavors and cultures of different countries.

Nick, an avid wine lover, told me, “The wine pairings were incredible. Each pairing elevated the flavors of the dish and the wine and the end result was fantastic.” Meanwhile, Laura was impressed by the “Eat to the Beat” concert series, saying, “The music was the perfect nightcap after an adventure-filled day in the park.”

The festival was such a hit that they’re already planning a return trip. Laura excitedly mentioned, “Next time, we’ll attend the cooking demonstrations and seminars. I can’t wait to learn more about global cuisine!”

Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival is not just an event for food and wine enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of global culture, accompanied by excellent music. If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in October, prepare your palate for an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Experiencing Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in October

October is a magical time at Disney World, with the Halloween spirit echoing throughout the park. One of our favorite events – one that my wife Jaimie and I eagerly anticipate each year – is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Running throughout October, this event blends Disney’s magic with Halloween’s seasonal charm. Magic Kingdom transforms into a delightful spectacle of festive decorations, playful scares, and beloved characters in unique Halloween costumes.

2024’s Halloween Party will be held on October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, & 31 (along with additional dates in August and September). Ticket prices vary by date, ranging from $119 to $199 per person across the entire three-month party season. October typically commands prices on the higher end of the range, especially on weekends and as Halloween itself approaches.

As Jaimie often remarks, “Disney is magical in October. The Not-So-Scary Halloween Party captures this perfectly with its perfect blend of autumn festivities and Disney enchantment.”

A highlight of the event is the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. Guests join the iconic Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus in a bewitching celebration on the Cinderella Castle stage. Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is another must-see, featuring a delightful procession of characters, including the eerie inhabitants of the Haunted Mansion.

There is no doubt that October is the best month for this festival. As we move closer to Halloween on October 31, a sense of anticipation and excitement builds throughout the park. This enhances the eerie, atmospheric lighting and decorations, creating an unforgettable Halloween extravaganza.

The event runs on select nights, and tickets sell out fast due to limited capacity. With shorter wait times for attractions and plenty of themed treats, it’s an event not to be missed. To secure your tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in October 2024, contact The Vacationeer.

Is October the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

In my opinion, October is one of the top three months of the year to visit Disney World. Here’s why.

October offers pleasant weather. The summer heat subsides, and rainfall decreases, creating perfect conditions for park exploration during the day and cooler evenings for nighttime events.

Crowd sizes in October are moderate, providing a balance between the hectic summer and holiday seasons. You can experience popular attractions with less wait time and enjoy a more relaxed park atmosphere.

Unique events make October special at Disney World. Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival is in full swing, and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers a delightful celebration leading up to Halloween on October 31st.

Early October can offer some cost savings compared to peak summer and holiday seasons, but prices may creep up as Halloween approaches due to the popularity of seasonal events.

However, October has potential drawbacks. Columbus Day weekend can bring crowds, families might find it difficult to travel during the school session, and the threat of hurricanes still lingers. It’s essential to balance these considerations with October’s benefits to ensure a magical Disney World experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for pleasant weather, manageable crowds, average to below-average pricing, and unique seasonal events, October might be the best time to visit Disney World.

Having trouble making a decision? Consult a trustworthy resource such as The Vacationeer.

Comparing Disney World in October to Neighboring Months

It is helpful to compare October with its neighboring months, September and November, when deciding when to visit Disney World:

• September or October?: September is warm and humid, with a potential for unpredictable weather due to the peak hurricane season. However, it usually results in fewer crowds and below-average prices. Both months feature the Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Still, October sees a drop in hurricane risk, less humidity, cooler temperatures, and the unveiling of fall decorations. On the flip side, October can be busier due to fall breaks and Columbus Day weekend, resulting in slightly higher prices.
• October or November?: October offers comfortable weather and a balance of crowd sizes, thanks to the continuation of the Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Halloween events. In contrast, November introduces the holiday season, with the start of Christmas celebrations at Disney World usually around November 8. The weather is slightly better in November, but the crowd levels fluctuate due to Veterans Day and Thanksgiving. Overall, October might be a safer bet unless you are keen on holiday events and are willing to navigate unpredictable crowds.

Ultimately, if a balance of pleasant weather, moderate crowds, and unique seasonal events appeals to you, October could be your best bet. If you’re willing to face potential storms and lower crowds for reduced costs, consider September. Despite fluctuating crowd sizes, November might be worthwhile for those interested in holiday celebrations.

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 November
• 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.