Tips for Visiting Disney World in October

If you’re headed to Walt Disney World in October, read on for the average weather, Disney crowds, events, tips, and strategies!

Walt Disney World in October is such a fun time! Imagine it now: strolling Magic Kingdom’s Main Street with a PSL in your hand (hot or cold, depending on the weather!), taking in the autumn vibes, perusing the whimsical decor, and ending the day by attending one of the many events hosted during this time of year. It truly is lovely!

October Weather at Walt Disney World

Historically, in October, the temperatures steadily decrease a degree or two each day as the month progresses—starting with a high of around 87° and ending at about 81°. Lows range from 72° 63°. Compared to the scorching weather summer brings to the Orlando area, I would call that a nice reprieve!

You will also notice slightly less humidity. You can blame it on the fact that hurricane season is still lingering. NOAA is predicting “above-normal” hurricane activity, yikes! (Remember if you need to cancel for any reason, Disney offers a fairly lenient cancellation policy. I do highly suggest reading over the terms and agreements before booking.)

In short, October days at Disney World can range from hot and sunny to rainy and humid. To accommodate for the varying weather conditions, I always like to dress in layers with a raincoat or poncho in tow!

October Crowds at Walt Disney World

Over the years, October has quickly become a popular time to visit. The crowd levels will ebb and flow throughout the month. Be aware that attendance will spike on Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend and become increasingly more crowded the closer it is to Halloween.

Many school districts nationwide have fall break during this month (typically the first or second week in October), making Disney World a top vacation destination for families. It is also a popular time for conventions, so be mindful of this when making dinner reservations and visiting Disney Springs in the evenings.

Disney Trip Essentials
Disney Watch Bands	Hooded Rain Poncho	Portable Phone Charger

October Events at Walt Disney World

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
Dates: August 29th to November 23rd, 2024
This multicultural event is a food lover’s dream! Enjoy cultural events, cooking demonstrations, and samples of food and drink from all over the world!

Eat to the Beat details and musical artists to come!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP)
Dates: Select nights from August 9th to October 31st, 2024
This hugely popular event happens during the three months leading up to Halloween. Wear your best costume and enjoy themed food at select restaurants, Trick-or-Treat stations, dance parties, the “Boo-to-You” Halloween parade, event-exclusive merch, and Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, which might be the best fireworks show at Disney! You can find more information here.

Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Dates: October 31st to November 3rd, 2024
Burn off those extra Food and Wine calories by participating in the immensely popular Wine and Dine races! The weekend will celebrate its 15th year with a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. Participants will run throughout areas of the Walt Disney World property, experiencing culinary wonders from around the world. Friends and family members are invited to celebrate at the post-race party for an additional fee.

Other Notable Events

Happy birthday to Walt Disney World on October 1st!
NEW Disney Season Kickoff Soccer Tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports (October 12 – October 13, 2024)

October Closures and Refurbishments at Walt Disney World

The following will be closed during October:

Parks:
EPCOT – Test Track (returning date TBD)
Blizzard Beach Water Park (returning date TBD)

Resorts:
Polynesian Village Resort – various areas under construction due to resort wide renovations
Port Orleans French Quarter – some guest rooms under refurbishment

Tips for Visiting Disney World in October

Head back to your hotel if the heat or rain gets you down! Take a nap, dip in the pool, or enjoy the resort’s scenery in a hammock or rocking chair. Then, once you and your family are well-rested and recharged, return to the parks for round two!
Can’t return to your hotel but need a break? Find an indoor show or attraction to rest your legs and cool down in the air conditioning. We won’t judge you if you close your eyes, too! (Try Magic Kingdom’s The Hall of Presidents, Animal Kingdom’s Wildlife Express Train, EPCOT’s Impressions de France, and Hollywood Studios’ Star Wars Launch Bay.)
As for official Disney World park hours in October, they tend to run longer than in the summer months. Be sure to check them when building your itinerary. Additionally, if you are visiting Magic Kingdom, be mindful of the park hours on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary nights. Regular park hours will end at 6:00 pm. Lastly, don’t forget select resort guests will be offered “Extend Evening Hours” at the theme parks – learn more here!

Disney Essentials
Disney Halloween Bag	Anti Chafing Stick	Disney Loungefly Bag

One of our favorite things about Walt Disney World in October is the autumn-themed events, food, and souvenirs that pop up unexpectedly or unannounced. While visiting, watch for limited-time treats and gifts – especially at the quick service kiosks and bars. (Don’t forget to look at the resorts, too – you never know what you might find!) As for surprise events, I always love checking out Disney Springs. Often, the stores will have specialty items, or an event may be hosted in the communal areas.
This time of year has guests in the spooky spirit, with many rocking Halloween and autumn-themed gear. Feel free to indulge in the festivities with some seasonal outfits! While at Disney World, my favorite stores for autumn apparel are Disney Springs’s World of Disney, DisneyStyle, and MarketPlace Co-op. Want to plan your outfit before your trip? Shop Disney sells many items online. I have even seen fall-themed Disney wear at Target, Walmart, BoxLunch, and American Eagle.
If you are lucky enough to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (my all-time FAVORITE event!), guests are welcomed and encouraged to wear Halloween costumes. Costumes for guests 14 years old and older are prohibited during regular park hours, so this is a special perk for attending the event! (Click here to read more about Walt Disney World’s dress code.) As a frequent MNSSHP attendee, I always love planning and prepping for the costumes – the more Disney obscured, the better!
Not attending MNSSHP but want to let your inner character shine? Try Disney Bounding! You can find inspiration on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest!

I hope this is helpful, and we'd love to hear your favorite Disney tips! Please share in the comments below or tag me on Instagram, follow on Pinterest and Facebook, and join my email list so you don’t miss anything new. Thanks for being here, friends! 🙂