Hi there Courtney! Welcome back to planDisney, and thank you so much for sending in your question. I’m thrilled to help you plan your upcoming
Walt Disney World vacation during the most magical time of the year, Christmas week! I understand that preparing for your trip just two months after knee surgery can feel a bit overwhelming, especially with the large crowds that come with the holidays, but with the right plan, you can absolutely have a comfortable and magical experience. Let’s take a look at which parks to visit on which days to help make your vacation as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
To start, it’s best to plan for slower, more spacious parks on the most crowded days and save Magic Kingdom for a time when crowds are a little more manageable. Arriving early each morning will help you enjoy attractions before the biggest crowds arrive, and taking a midday break back at your resort or in a quiet park area will give your knee a chance to rest.
Renting an ECV directly at each park rather than transporting one between them will also make things easier, especially on buses or during transfers.
You might consider starting your vacation on December 22 at
Animal Kingdom. It’s the most relaxed of the four parks, with wider walkways and generally lighter crowds. It’s a great place to get used to your ECV and ease into the trip. Enjoy shows like Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Big Blue... and Beyond! for fun seated breaks.
On December 23, visit
Hollywood Studios. While it can get busy, it’s smaller and in my opinion, easier to navigate than EPCOT or Magic Kingdom. Focus on the many stage shows, like Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage and Frozen Sing-Along Celebration, so you can sit and rest often.
Spend Christmas Eve, December 24, at
EPCOT. This park has the most space to move comfortably in an ECV, even with large crowds. The World Showcase shines during the holidays, with cultural storytellers and holiday treats around each pavilion. Consider ending your evening with the
Candlelight Processional or a relaxing meal at a sit-down restaurant.
Finally, visit Magic Kingdom on December 25, Christmas Day. While it will be the most crowded, you’ll experience the park at its most festive and magical. Arrive early in the morning, enjoy a few attractions before the crowd builds, and take breaks throughout the day. Plan to watch the parade and fireworks from a designated ECV or wheelchair viewing area, which offers more space and a better experience.
Courtney, it sounds like your Christmas visit to Walt Disney World will be absolutely magical, filled with lights, joyful music, and beautiful memories. With a great plan that balances rest, comfort, and celebration, you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday magic at your own pace while taking good care of your knee. Thank you for visiting planDisney with your question! I hope your vacation is full of fun rides, cozy breaks, and heartwarming moments that make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Have a wonderful trip and a very merry Christmas at The Most Magical Place on Earth!
Kay