Tips for Visiting Disney World in October

If you’re headed to Walt Disney World in October, we’ve got you covered with the average weather, 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 will 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 will 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 hurricane season still lingering around. NOAA is predicting the 7th year of above-average for hurricane weather, 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, however.)

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

As with September, October has quickly become a popular time to visit. The crowd levels will ebb and flow throughout the month. Be aware there will be a spike in crowds on Columbus/Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend and will become increasingly more crowded the closer it is to Halloween.

Many school districts across the country 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.

October Events at Walt Disney World

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
Dates: July 14 to November 19, 2022
This 129-day 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 musical artists include:
- Shelia E. (October 2 and 3)
- Mark Wills (October 7 and 8)
- 38 Special (October 9 and 10)
- Robert Randolph Band (October 14 and 15)
- Newsboys (October 16 and 17)
- Ray Parker Jr. (October 21 and 22)
- Billy Ocean (October 23 and 24)
- Hanson (October 28 to 31).

Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary
Dates: October 1st, 2021 to March 2023
“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” features new rides, fireworks, and entertainment across all four Disney World theme parks!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP)
Dates: Select nights from August 12 to October 31, 2022
This hugely popular event happens during the two 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.

Other Notable Events:

Walt Disney World’s 51st anniversary will be on October 1st, 2022.

EPCOT’s 40th anniversary will also be on October 1st, 2022.

Although nothing official has been posted by Disney about EPCOT’s birthday plans, recent murmurs in the rumor mill seem to think there will be some fun celebrations, like 40th branded merch! I was there as a Cast Member for EPCOT’s 30th and it was a huge party – commemorative pins and park maps, special events with iconic Imagineers, and more. Here’s to hoping EPCOT’s 40th birthday will be just as celebrated!

October Closures and Refurbishments at Walt Disney World

The following will be closed during October:

Parks:
Magic Kingdom – Walt Disney World Railroad (returning date TBD)
Blizzard Beach Water Park (returning date TBD)

Resorts:
Grand Floridian – Narcoosee’s (returning date TBD)
Polynesian – Kona Cafe (returning date TBD)

Tips for visiting Disney World in October

If the heat or rain gets you down, head back to your hotel! Take a nap, dip in the pool, or leisurely enjoy the resort’s scenery in a hammock or rocking chair. Then once you and your family are well rested and recharged, make your way back to the parks for round two!

Can’t return to your hotel, but need a break? Try to 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 a little 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 they do in the summer months. Be sure to check them when building your itinerary. 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!

Our Favorite Lunches at Disney World

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, be sure to keep an eye out 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 and I have even seen fall-themed Disney wear at Target and Walmart.

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 normal 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!

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