Disney World in September (2024): A Comprehensive Guide

Here’s everything you need to know about Disney World in September 2024. Below, you’ll find important dates, special events, weather conditions, crowd predictions, and helpful tips for visiting in September. Whether you’re still deciding on your dates or have them set, this comprehensive guide covers every aspect of planning a Disney World vacation in September 2024.

The September Advantage: Disney World 2024

September at Disney World provides a relaxed atmosphere and many unique experiences. As summer vacations end and schools reopen, crowds decrease significantly, especially after Labor Day. This less hectic atmosphere allows visitors to enjoy the parks at a more leisurely pace.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival takes place during this time, offering visitors a chance to sample various global cuisines, attend culinary workshops, and enjoy live concerts.

Moreover, September offers the entire month of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This event transforms Magic Kingdom into a family-friendly spooky spectacle with themed parades, fireworks, and trick-or-treating, offering an immersive Halloween experience.

The Headless Horseman rides tonight

While still warm and potentially rainy, September’s weather in Florida is typically more manageable than in July and August. For those comfortable with heat and humidity, it provides a pleasant backdrop for exploring the parks.

Finally, September is a particularly attractive month for budget-conscious travelers. With the summer crowds gone post-Labor Day, prices tend to be lower than during the peak summer months.

September’s Potential Downsides:

Planning a Disney World visit in September involves several factors. With schools back in session, scheduling a family trip in September may pose challenges.

The beginning of September often sees a surge in crowds and prices during the Labor Day weekend. Visitors planning around this time should prepare for this increase.

While slightly milder than July and August, Florida’s September weather mirrors June’s warmth and humidity. Regular afternoon rain showers may dampen plans and temporarily shut down certain outdoor attractions.

Additionally, September falls within Florida’s peak hurricane season. Even though severe hurricanes affecting Disney World are rare, they are a crucial factor to consider when planning. Nonetheless, with careful scheduling and flexibility, a magical Disney World experience in September is not just possible but highly likely.

Disney World Key Dates and Events, September 2024

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

The following highlights are worth considering if you plan to visit Disney World in September 2024:

• Back to School (Late August – Early September): As schools across the U.S. resume in late August or right after Labor Day, crowd levels at Disney World tend to decrease significantly, particularly after Labor Day.
• Labor Day Weekend (August 30 – September 3, 2024): The first Monday of September is observed as Labor Day in the United States, marking the traditional end of summer. The weekend surrounding Labor Day sees a slight increase in visitor numbers and prices. While it’s busier than the rest of September, it doesn’t attract the massive crowds that other holidays typically do.
• Disney Labor Day Soccer Tournament: This event is held over Labor Day weekend at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex. While it doesn’t significantly impact overall crowd levels at Disney World, it does lead to a noticeable increase in child and teen attendees at Disney Value Resorts like All-Star Sports.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (August 29 – November 23, 2024): This popular festival, in full-swing during September, provides visitors with a unique culinary experience featuring a variety of international cuisines.
• Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Select Nights): Typically beginning in mid-August and extending through Halloween, September visitors get an entire month of family-friendly Halloween fun.

Each of these events plays a role in determining crowds, resort availability, and the overall experience, making them crucial factors to consider when planning your September trip.

Will Disney World be Crowded in September?

The following factors will influence crowd levels in September 2023 and 2024 at Disney World.

• School Term: With U.S. schools typically reopening in late August or right after Labor Day, fewer families embark on vacations in September, leading to smaller crowds throughout Disney World.
• Weather: September’s hot and rainy weather is less intense than the peak summer months. This could deter some guests while attracting others seeking less severe conditions.
• Hurricane Season: The peak of the Atlantic Hurricane season falls in September, potentially affecting park operations and deterring some potential visitors.
• Crowd Ranking: In terms of crowd density, September ranks as the 10th most crowded month at Disney World, generally offering lower crowd levels than the peak summer months.
• Labor Day: Labor Day: Mild increases in visitor numbers occur around Labor Day weekend, which recede after the holiday but gradually rise as the month progresses.
• Events: The ongoing Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party draw visitors but don’t significantly impact overall crowd numbers. Additionally, the Disney Labor Day Soccer Tournament brings an influx of young attendees, particularly at the All-Star Resorts.

If hot, potentially stormy weather doesn’t deter you, September is a great time to visit Disney World with manageable crowds. See our Disney World Crowd Calendar and our guide on avoiding lines for more helpful insights.

Disney World Prices in September

School schedules, weather, and promotional offers influence Disney World prices in September 2024.

September is a transitional month, marking a shift from the end of the high summer season to the start of the fall, with prices generally falling around or below the yearly average. As the school year commences and summer heat lingers, you’ll find more competitive pricing, particularly post-Labor Day. It’s one of the cheapest times to go to Disney World.

Ticket Pricing

September Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays usually offer the cheapest ticket prices of the entire year (along with a few weekdays in late August), with some tickets going for as low as $109 per adult (ages 10+). The graphs below for September 2024 show the huge savings that can be found by focusing on mid-week visits ($109+) versus weekends ($129 – $149).

The lower August/September price points are vastly cheaper than any other time of year.

These are starting prices for single-day tickets, and they will go up depending on the theme park chosen, whether you add options such as park-hopping, and when adding additional days.

Resort Hotel Pricing

Disney Deluxe Resorts generally maintain competitive pricing in September, while Value Resorts continue to offer lower rates in the first half of the month.

Here are sample starting prices for 2024 from a Disney Value Resort.

The starting price for a standard hotel room at All Star Sports in September 2024 range from $135 per night to $210 per night; those prices will increase based on the resort chosen and the type of room chosen.

Hotel prices will also likely increase the longer you wait to book; to be clear, we’re not falsely creating a sense of urgency here — Disney tends to increase hotel prices as rooms begin to fill up; booking early helps you lock in a lower price.

Late August and early September usually offer the second-lowest prices of the year, being undercut only by mid-winter rates.

Overall Pricing

Other factors to consider when looking at September pricing:

• Hurricane and Heat Season: As peak hurricane and heat season subsides around mid-September, both crowd levels and prices see a slight uptick moving into fall.
• Discounts: September is historically the time for Disney’s Free Dining offer, one of their most aggressive discounts. It’s often accompanied by (but cannot be combined with) a substantial room-only discount that may also offer good deals.
• Average Cost: In 2024, the average cost for a week-long stay at Disney World for a family of four – including accommodations at a Value Resort, six-day theme park tickets, Lightning Lane passes, and Quick Service meals – is estimated at $6,559. September 2024 represents a good bargain for theme park tickets (and even for rooms early in the month), so you will likely spend less than the yearly average if you time your trip wisely.

Use our Disney World Cost Calculator to estimate your Disney World expenses.

Disney World Weather in September: What to Expect

September in Disney World offers a gradual transition from summer’s scorching heat to the milder climate of the fall. Here’s what you can expect:

• Temperature: September typically sees average high temperatures around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), with lows generally around 73 degrees Fahrenheit (about 23 degrees Celsius). The temperatures start to slightly dip compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
• Subsiding Heat: While the summer heat continues into early September, it gradually subsides as the month progresses. If you can handle some heat and humidity, it offers a pleasant backdrop for exploring the parks.

• Rainfall: September ranks among the rainier months, with rain typically occurring on about 9 days of the month. These showers tend to be brief, though, so overall rainfall totals are usually less than the peak summer months (unless, of course, a tropical storm or hurricane is in the mix).

• Hurricane Season: September sits at the peak of the hurricane season in Florida, which extends through late October. While hurricanes can occur anytime from June to November, they are more probable in mid-September.

Image courtesy NOAA/NHC

Preparing for Disney World Weather in September

September at Disney World features hot, humid, and summer-like weather. Preparing ahead of time is the best way to ensure a comfortable visit.

• Heat Management: With temperatures often reaching the 90s, staying cool and hydrated is essential. Take advantage of free ice water from Quick Service restaurants and water refill stations throughout the parks. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly.
• Touring Strategy: Visit the parks early in the morning to avoid the peak afternoon heat. Purchasing Lightning Lanes passes can be a wise investment to bypass long queues during the hottest hours. You can take a break from the sun at attractions with indoor queues, such as Pirates of the Caribbean and Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.
• Rain Preparedness: September experiences an average of 9 rainy days. Pack a lightweight poncho and wear waterproof footwear to navigate any downpours. Don’t let rain derail your plans – there’s plenty to do indoors. Visit our Disney Attractions to Escape the Rain page for suggestions.

Understanding and preparing for September’s weather at Disney World is essential for a pleasant experience. With the right strategies and preparations, you can enjoy the magic of Disney, rain or shine!

Hurricane Considerations for September Disney World Visits

Visiting Disney World in September means taking into account the risks associated with Florida’s peak hurricane season. Awareness and preparedness are essential for a worry-free trip.

• Peak Hurricane Season: Statistically, hurricanes are most likely from late August through late October, with mid-September being the peak. They can occur anytime from June through November. Since 1985, Disney World parks have had to close nine times due to hurricanes in its history, with six closures in September.
• Recent Trends: Out of the six September closures, three occurred recently in 2017, 2019, and 2022. While not a significant number over two decades, recent trends suggest a rise in September closures, indicating a need for visitors to be aware of this possibility.
• Safety and Infrastructure: Thanks to Orlando’s inland location and advanced forecasts, safety is typically not a significant concern. Disney World’s infrastructure is built to weather these storms. However, dining options and hotel activities may be limited while the closures are in effect.
• Flexibility and Insurance: If a hurricane warning is issued for Orlando or your residence within seven days of your scheduled arrival, Disney provides the option to reschedule or cancel hotel packages and most room-only reservations without penalty. Consider travel insurance for added protection, as some exceptions may apply.

Despite September being the heart of hurricane season, you can still enjoy a magical Disney World trip during hurricane season if you plan ahead, prepare, and take the right precautions. Consult with an experienced Disney travel agent for additional information.

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

September signifies the transition from summer to fall at Disney World. During this change of seasons, you will not typically encounter many closures or refurbishments, but might have a chance to experience some of the newest rides at Disney World. Here’s what we know so far for September 2024:

Theme Parks and Attractions

• ¡Celebración Encanto! (EPCOT): This limited-time musical performance takes place multiple times daily on the newly-opened Communicore Plaza Stage in EPCOT’s World Celebration.
• 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.
• 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 replacement for Splash Mountain opened June 28, 2024 and will be open for September 2024 vacations.
• 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.
• Everything Pop! Food Court at Disney’s Pop Century Resort: Construction will be underway from July 29, 2024 through the end of September 2024. Guests will still be able to order food and drinks, but will likely have to use the mobile order service on the MyDisneyExperience app to do so. Dining room seating may be limited, and you might need to use an alternate entrance at times.
• 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 Springs Drone Show: Disney Dreams That Soar, a limited-run nighttime drone show with Disney music soundtrack, performs nightly at Disney Springs West Side from May 24, 2024 – September 2, 2024.
• 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.

Please keep in mind that these schedules and maintenance plans can fluctuate. We recommend contacting Disney World customer service or consulting with your preferred travel planner (such as The Vacationeer) for the most up-to-date information on the ride and hotel closures.

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

In September, Disney World’s water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon – offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Both parks offer distinct attractions and activities, and their operating schedules vary. Here’s what to expect:

• Water Park Operations: Recently, Disney World has been alternating operations between its two water parks. 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: In 2022, Blizzard Beach featured a holiday theme, a trend expected to continue for the foreseeable future.
• Predicted Schedule: If this recent cycle holds, Typhoon Lagoon will likely operate from spring to fall, with Blizzard Beach opening from fall to spring.
• September 2024 Expectations: Based on these patterns, we expect Typhoon Lagoon to be the operating water park in September. Please remember that this is an estimate based on past trends, and actual schedules may vary.

You can add a splash of fun and refreshment to your September Disney World itinerary by visiting a Disney water park. For more detailed information about Disney water parks and assistance with your travel plans, don’t hesitate to contact The Vacationeer.

Experiencing Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival in September

There is no better time for culinary enthusiasts to experience Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival than September. The 2024 festival is scheduled from August 29 to November 23, 2024.

Festival highlights include the lively “Eat to the Beat” concert series, as well as diverse dining packages. The heart of the event lies in the international food and drink stalls scattered across the countries of Epcot’s World Showcase. These mini-gourmet destinations offer a unique taste of various countries, allowing you to embark on a flavorful tour around the world.

The festival also boasts limited-edition merchandise for those who love to collect unique souvenirs. These exclusive items capture the spirit of the festival and make perfect Disney World souvenirs.

For my wife and me, September and October are the best months to attend the festival. The slight cool down from summer’s heat lends an even more pleasant atmosphere to the event. As Disney World foodies, we always look forward to this journey through global cuisines, savoring new flavors and revisiting old favorites. We also enjoy the evening concerts, which are a great way to unwind after a long day.

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival is more than just a culinary event. It’s a celebration of global culture, music, and the enchanting magic of Disney. If you’re planning a visit in September, prepare for a memorable experience and a happy belly.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in September

As the summer heat recedes and a gentle crispness creeps into the air, Disney World offers a delightful fusion of fall festivities and Disney magic in September. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a seasonal spectacular. 2024’s Halloween Party season runs from August 9 through October 31, with September sitting comfortably in the middle of this range.

The 2024 Halloween party will be held on September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27 & 29 (along with additional dates in August and October). Ticket prices vary by date, ranging from $119 to $199 per person across the entire three-month party season. September prices are usually in the middle of the price range, with higher prices on weekends.

The event is a carefully curated balance of fun and fright, transforming the Magic Kingdom into an enchanting Halloween haven. Think Disney characters donning playful Halloween costumes, themed attractions filled with surprises, and a mesmerizing display of lasers and fireworks. And naturally, the tradition of trick-or-treating is kept alive throughout the park.

A standout of the event is the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. Here, guests can join in the bewitching celebration led by the infamous Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus on the stage of Cinderella’s Castle.

Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade is another must-see, featuring a merry cavalcade of characters, including the eerie occupants of the Haunted Mansion.

September’s gentle transition from summer to fall sets the perfect stage for this Halloween extravaganza. The cooler evenings lend themselves well to the ghostly décor and atmospheric lighting that transforms the park into a beautifully spooky spectacle.

The event is held on select nights with limited capacity, resulting in shorter wait times for attractions and plenty of themed treats.

For updates on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for September 2024 and to secure your tickets once available, contact The Vacationeer.

Is September the Best Month to Visit Disney World?

September may be the best month to visit Disney World for many reasons, but your comfort level with weather fluctuations and willingness to navigate potential disruptions during hurricane season will play a significant role in the decision.

For those who don’t mind some heat and humidity, the weather in September, while still warm, is typically more manageable than the peak summer months. Moreover, the threat of afternoon rain showers shouldn’t be a deterrent, as these are often brief and can offer a pleasant cool-down.

From a crowd perspective, September is golden. Schools reopening and the end of summer vacations lead to a significant decrease in crowd sizes, especially post-Labor Day. This allows for a more relaxed park experience and shorter wait times for most attractions.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, along with the family-friendly Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, offer unique entertainment opportunities. September is also a great time for the budget-conscious traveler. Post-Labor Day, prices generally dip, making it one of the most cost-effective periods to visit Disney World.

In a nutshell, if you can handle a little heat, the potential for some rainfall, and the uncertainty that comes with peak hurricane season, September might just be your ideal time to visit Disney World. However, if weather unpredictability seems stressful, it might be better to consider other months. As always, consulting with a knowledgeable resource like The Vacationeer can help you make an informed decision.

Comparing Disney World in September to Neighboring Months

When comparing Disney World in September with its neighboring months, August and October, several factors come into play:

• August or September?: Florida is typically hotter and more humid in August, with sporadic rainfall. The latter half of August sees the start of the hurricane season, resulting in fewer crowds and below-average prices. However, peak hurricane risk spans early to mid-September, causing potentially unpredictable weather but also leading to less crowded parks and continued below-average prices. Both months provide the opportunity to enjoy the Epcot Food & Wine Festival. Still, September offers the festival in full swing and a complete month of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party events.
• September or October?: October brings more pleasant weather than September, with less humidity and cooler temperatures. Although September is peak hurricane season, October sees a significant decline in this risk. The Epcot Food & Wine Festival and Halloween events occur in both months, but October also brings the beauty of fall decorations. However, October can be slightly busier due to fall breaks and Columbus Day weekend, and its prices are slightly higher than in September.

Overall, if you are okay with heat and potential storms in exchange for fewer crowds and lower prices, the latter part of August and most of September could be good options. If you prefer more comfortable weather and can live with slightly higher crowd levels and costs, October would be more suitable than September. Contact The Vacationeer for a free consultation.

Final Thoughts: Our Disney World Experience in September

My wife, Jaimie, and I have always found September at Disney World to be a truly delightful time to visit, blending warm weather, reduced crowds, and budget-friendly deals. It’s why we’ve marked it as one of our favorite months to explore the magic of Disney World.

We’re food enthusiasts, and the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, running throughout September, is a particular highlight for us. The reduced crowds mean we can take our time sampling the international flavors and enjoying the evening concerts without feeling crowded.

As for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, it’s a standout event. Seeing Disney World celebrate Halloween for the whole month is something we absolutely love. It’s a magical blend of fun and frights that adds a unique spin to our visit.

However, we also understand that September is the peak of hurricane season, and the lingering summer heat can be a drawback for some. We’ve been lucky so far, but we always make sure we’re prepared for any sudden changes in weather.

Our friend Mindy, who has spent the last two Septembers at Disney World, says, “The potential for a storm does add a bit of unpredictability, but the lower crowd levels and the chance to enjoy the Food & Wine Festival without feeling rushed more than make up for it.”

In summary, despite the chance of tropical weather, the combination of special events, fewer crowds, and budget-friendly opportunities make September a great time to visit Disney World. It’s an opinion that Jaimie, Jack, and I share. But as with any travel plan, it’s essential to consider personal preferences and to be prepared for possible weather disruptions.

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 October
• 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.