Help, please? Questions for planning our next year trip

[mariezp]

Okay guys, and gals, I know it is a bit early but some of us have to dream since we can’t be there every time we would like. I am in the beginning stages of planning our next Disneyland family trip… in November 2008. I am hoping some of my fellow Micechatters can help me with their infinite knowledge and wisdom and, yes, even opinions. I realize everyone will just be guessing but many of you seem to have magical powers, or connections, to come up with information that some of us do not have. Also, I thought that maybe while this time of year is still fresh on everyone’s mind it might be a good time to go ahead and ask a few questions.

First, since the new castle Christmas lights were just added this year, what are the chances that they will use them again next year? I really am hoping they will be there again because they look so beautiful at night.

Next, I am looking at dates beginning from November 10th. Veteran’s day falls on a Tuesday for 2008. How does a holiday that falls on Tuesday usually affect the crowds? Will people most likely go to DL mainly on the weekend before the 11th or will they be more likely to make it a long weekend by taking off Monday, as well, and stay on through Tuesday?

And last, judging by this year, will November 21 most likely be the day to kick off the holiday season for 2008 with the parade and fireworks? Would the electrical parade be showing only closer to Christmas or does it run for Thanksgiving? (Why, oh why, do they run it on such a limited basis?) Is there anything that makes Thanksgiving extra special? Is it really worth fighting the crowd?

Thanks in advance to all of you who help us with questions! We would be lost without you! You do honestly help some of us come up with the stuff that makes for the most memorable and magical DL experiences.

[MollyTrolly]

I am going to guess Nov 14 for Christmas festivities to begin, Waiting till the 21st would be a long wait.

The weekend before Veterans day should be busier as I believe that Monday is when it will be observed, but since Thanksgiving comes the last week of November next year, the weekend after veterans day should be a bit quieter, but all of November this year seemed really busy...especially Thanksgiving week where it seems a lot of schools now have the entire week off.

I don't think the electrical parade runs at all after summer, its usually dark for the holidays because DCA closes so early.

Personally if you can wait, I woudl come the week after Thanksgiving. The park should be quieter, and all the holiday festivities will be in full swing (although DL will close early the first nights that week for the CM party)..

[mariezp]

Thanks MollyTrolly for your input.

I am going to guess Nov 14 for Christmas festivities to begin, Waiting till the 21st would be a long wait.

I was guessing Nov. 21 for the Christmas season to begin since it is the weekend before Thanksgiving. Seems like I read somewhere that things really get started on the third weekend of the month. I like your dates even better though!

Personally if you can wait, I would come the week after Thanksgiving.

We have been the first week of December and loved the park. However, when we got home, Christmas was over before we could get into the groove so we wanted to try going earlier. I was hoping by going in early November to take advantage of less crowds and still enjoy some of the holiday feel of the park, yet still be home at Christmas time.