Seasonal Guide
Winter & New Year Travel Guide
Marathon weekends, festival art, and the best ways to start the new year
January through early March is an underrated gem for travel. The holiday crowds have gone home, the weather is mild (at least in Florida), and some of the best annual events happen in this window. Whether you are running the Walt Disney World Marathon, celebrating Mardi Gras at Universal, or escaping to a tropical resort, winter travel delivers exceptional value and experiences.
Don't Miss
Signature Events
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend
Walt Disney World · Early January
A race weekend like no other -- 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Full Marathon through the Disney parks. Massive expo, special merchandise, and runner-exclusive character meets.
Read Full GuideUniversal's Mardi Gras
Universal Studios Orlando · Early Feb - Early Apr
The biggest party at Universal -- nightly parades, authentic New Orleans food, and headliner concerts included with park admission.
Read Full GuideEPCOT International Festival of the Arts
EPCOT, Walt Disney World · Mid-Jan - Late Feb
Disney on Broadway concert series, food-as-art dishes, interactive art installations, and guest artist workshops. Many consider this the best EPCOT festival.
Read Full GuideSki & Mountain Getaways
Colorado, Utah, Vermont & More · Dec - Mar
From beginner bunny slopes to expert black diamonds. Ski-in/ski-out resorts, mountain spas, and cozy fireside evenings.
Read Full GuideWinter Sun Escape
Sandals, Beaches, Hyatt Inclusive Collection, Xcaret, Royalton, Iberostar & More · Jan - Mar
Escape the cold with peak Caribbean and Mexico weather, calm seas, and all-inclusive luxury across the top-rated resort chains.
Read Full GuideInsider Tips
Plan Like a Pro
January is Value Season
The first two weeks of January (after New Year's) are among the least crowded and least expensive times to visit Disney World. You get holiday decorations without holiday crowds.
Layer for Florida Winter
Florida winter can swing from 45F mornings to 75F afternoons. Dress in removable layers and keep a jacket in your park bag.
Festival Season Stacks
January-February at EPCOT features Festival of the Arts, one of the best EPCOT festivals. Combine it with Marathon Weekend or Universal Mardi Gras for a packed trip.
Book Caribbean Peak Early
January-March is peak Caribbean season. Book 6-12 months ahead for the best rooms and rates at all-inclusive resorts.
Insider Secret
"The two weeks after New Year's Day are the hidden gem of the Disney calendar. Holiday decorations are still up, crowds are at their annual low, and resort rates drop to their cheapest of the year. It is the best-value window to visit Walt Disney World, period."
Packing Extras for Winter & New Year
- Warm layers for chilly Florida mornings (yes, it gets cold)
- Running gear if doing Marathon Weekend
- Dressy outfits for resort dinners
- Ski gear or plan for resort rentals
Best For
- Runners and fitness enthusiasts
- Art and music lovers
- Snow sports fans
- Sun-seekers escaping winter
Ready to Book Your Winter & New Year Trip?
Your advisor handles everything -- tickets, dining, party reservations, and all the seasonal extras. And it is included with your booking.
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