What to Wear to Disney World in December: Winter Outfits
This guide to what to wear to Disney World in December shares cute outfit ideas for the cold weather and holidays.
I have been to Disney World five times and Disneyland more times than I can count. From going as a kid almost every year to a few trips as an adult, I always love that dose of Disney Magic.
However, one thing I have never experienced is Disney World during the holidays. I’m planning to finally make this trip either this year or next. In typical me fashion, I began vigorously planning.
One of my biggest questions was what to wear to Disney World in December. Will it be cold? I clearly have to dress festive! What shoes?
I researched all of this and even began shopping. (I just cant help myself!) Since I spent so much time researching what to wear to Disney during the holidays, I figured it only made sense to share it here to save you the time.
In this guide to what to wear to Disney Word in December, find shirt ideas for Disney Christmas, Hanukkah, and general winter. I also share the best shoes, cute accessories, and outfit ideas to pull it all together.
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What to Wear to Disney World in December?
When I first started planning what to wear to Disney World for the holidays, I was picturing warm poof coats, boots, and layers to stay warm. Then I remembered that Disney World is in Orlando, where it’s warm year around.
In December, the average high is 75 and the average low is 55. By most standards, that is not very cold.
For warmth, you could end up wearing shorts and a shirt/sweatshirt, or jeans and a light jacket, depending on the weather of your specific trip.
I recommend packing a mix that you can pull out depending on the weather each day.
In addition to dressing for the weather, you will want to dress for a theme. Some of the most popular things to wear to Disney in the winter are for Christmas or Hanukkah. It’s super fun to dress festive.
Below, I shared outfit collages for both of these holidays and one for non-denominational winter gear. Keep reading for outfit ideas for a winter Disney vacation.
Disney Christmas Shirts and Sweatshirts
The Disney World décor goes all out for Christmas in November through January. There are Christmas lights, trees, and wreaths. Some rides even get refitted for the holiday. Since I celebrate Christmas and a bit obsessed with the holiday, I love wearing Disney Christmas merch for a visit to the parks.
The above collage shows cute Disney Christmas shirts and sweatshirts with Mickey in a Christmas hat, Christmas trees, holiday beverages, and more. There are also super cute Christmas Mickey ears that would go great with a simple outfit.
Shop These Disney Christmas Shirts
Winter Outfits for Disney World
In addition to dressing for the holiday, it’s fun to wear general winter-themed Disney items. For example, clothes with snowflakes, gingerbread, or holiday drinks.
These items are also great to wear to Disney in January and February, when it’s still winter but after the holiday season.
Shop Disney World Winter Outfits
Disney World Hanukkah Merch
One common criticism of Disney is that they do a lot more for Christmas then Hanukkah. This is apparent in the lack of cute Disney Hanukkah clothes.
However, I scoured the internet for the above shirts, sweatshirt, and ears that would look so cute in the parks.
What to wear to disney in december – Accessories
One of the best ways to make a simple outfit more Disney-themed is by adding mickey accessories. The above collage shows super cute and affordable Disney earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
I like that they’re on theme without being too bright or tacky. I’m definitely going to get the hoop-style ones.
The Best Shoes to Wear in Disney World
One of the most important aspects to a Disney vacation outfit is your shoes. It’s super tempting to break out your cutest sandals to complete the ‘fit, but after hours of walking around, you will regret it.
Instead, go for shoes that are equally cute and comfortable such as sneakers, tennis shoes, or practical sandals. In addition, be sure to break in your shoes before the trip.
Light Jackets for Disney World in December
As I mentioned above, it really doesn’t get that cold in Orlando in December. As someone who grew up in Seattle, 75 is actually quite warm! However, it does get cold early in the morning or at night.
For this reason, a light jacket is a great idea. I love a jean jacket or shacket that can go over any outfit then get tied around your waist when it heats up.
Disney World Packing List for One Week in the Winter
Packing for a week at Walt Disney World in the winter requires some special thought and preparation. Here’s a list of must-have items to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun!
The below Disney packing list is for a one week trip, but you can adjust the quantities of tops and bottoms depending on the length of your vacation.
- 2 Pairs of comfortable shoes: Invest in a good pair of comfortable walking shoes that can handle all the walking around Disney Springs and the four theme parks.
- 1-2 Coats: Even though Florida is sunny, it still gets chilly in the winter months, so make sure you bring something to keep you warm and a raincoat if any rain is in the forecast.
- 2 Sweatshirts: A sweatshirt is a great weight to wear on a colder day or to layer over a tee in the morning
- 5 Short Sleeve and 2 Long Sleeve Shirts: Most days, you will be warm enough in a short sleeve shirt so pack more of them. Throw in a couple long sleeve shirts for the colder days.
- 2 Pairs of Jeans and 2 Leggings: You can easily re-wear pants, so four is a reasonable amount for a one week packing list.
- 1 Swimsuit: I always pack a swimsuit in case it’s unseasonably warm or for the hot tub.
- Hats & Gloves: Don’t forget to pack a warm hat and gloves for those extra chilly days, early mornings, and late nights.
- An external battery charger: With all the running around from park to park, your phone’s battery might not last the whole day. Having an external battery charger will help keep your devices charged throughout your trip.
- SPF 50 Sunscreen: Even though it’s cooler during the winter, it’s still important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays with sunscreen.
If you are planning a Disney World winter vacation, be sure to check out my Disney World two day itinerary and Disney World food guide.
Average Weather at Disney World in december
Orlando’s weather in December is usually characterized by moderate temperatures and sunshine, making it the perfect time to visit.
The average daily high temperature is in the mid-to-high 70s, with lows in the upper 50s or low 60s. This is much more reasonable than the high 90’s with 80% humidity in the summer.
Rainfall can vary, but you can typically expect a few rain showers during the month. However, there can be short bouts of cold temperatures and even frost during December with occasional winter storms.
Be sure to check the forecast right before your trip for the most accurate weather predictions.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Disney World in December
Pros of Visiting Disney World in December:
- Fewer crowds compared to summer in the beginning of the month due to school
- Special holiday events and decorations, such as the Jingle Cruise and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
- Cooler temperatures compared to summer months
- Fireworks displays during Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations
- Special hotel discounts for the holiday season
Cons of Visiting Disney World in December:
- Higher prices for flights, hotels, tickets, and food over school breaks
- Possible rain or cold temperatures
- More crowded than usual on certain days like Christmas Day
- Shorter park hours on weekdays throughout the month
- Holiday-specific events may be sold out
Summary of How to dress for disney world in december
Now that I’ve shared shirt ideas for winter, Christmas, and Hanukkah, cute accessories, light jackets, and the best shoes for Disney, let’s talk about some outfit ideas.
What you wear each day will really depend on the forecast. For a colder day, jeans, sneakers, and a light jacket will be enough to stay warm. For a hotter day, you could definitely find yourself in shorts and a t-shirt.
To ensure you have the right outfit to wear each day, pack at least one pair of pant and one pair of shorts, a few tee’s and a few sweatshirts, and a light jacket to layer.
Also be sure to bring your most festive holiday gear to match the theming at the park.
FAQ
Yes, Disney World in December can get cold, relative to average summer temperatures. Temperatures usually range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. Layering is recommended since temperatures are known to drop quickly at night. Rainfall is common during this time of year as well, so be sure to pack rain gear and an umbrella.
Although it is colder than the summertime, Disney World in December is usually quite warm compared to other states in the winter, with temperatures hovering around 18°C (64°F). Visitors should pack sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect from the sun.
Since temperatures can get into the 70’s and many resorts have hot tubs, I recommend packing a swimsuit for your trip.
As well as layers to keep you warm and comfortable, it’s also important to bring plenty of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. You’ll also want to pack snacks or drinks for longer days or for when you’re on the go. Bring a small, lightweight backpack to store your items. Lastly, depending on the weather forecast, don’t forget to bring an umbrella in case of rain.
There are numerous prohibited items at Disney World and throughout the Orlando area. These include items such as firearms, explosives, alcohol, illegal drugs and more. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items before arriving at your destination. For full details on restricted and prohibited items, please visit Disney World’s official website or call the park’s Guest Services line in advance of your visit for clarification.
Related Posts:
- How To Visit Disney World In Two Days
- The Best Shoes for Walt Disney World that Are Cute and Comfy
- What To Wear To Disney World – Cute Outfit Ideas For Each Park
- What to Wear to Disney World in October: Halloween Outfits
- Outfit Ideas For Disney World For Men – Complete Guide To What To Wear
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