Is visiting Disney during the holidays actually worth it — or is it just crowds, chaos, and five-hour wait times?

🎄🏰 This week on Catch Us At The Castle, Steph and Ed break down what it’s really like to visit Disney World and Disneyland between Thanksgiving and New Year’s (without the holiday parties).

They talk holiday crowds, Lightning Lane strategy, the best times to go, and what to do when your favorite rides are totally out of reach. Plus, they share festive alternatives like gingerbread houses, resort hopping, Santa sightings, and whether they think Disneyland or Disney World is the better holiday bet.

If holiday Disney is on your wish list, this episode is all about planning smart, setting expectations, and deciding if the magic is worth the madness.

⏱️ Episode Timestamps

0:00 – Why people want to visit Disney during the holidays.

1:14 – What this episode covers (and what it doesn’t),

2:01 – Why holiday Disney really is more magical.

4:44 – How bad do holiday crowds actually get?

5:38 – Real wait times & what to expect for virtual queue rides.

7:17 – Lightning Lane strategy & planning pitfalls.

0:43 – What to do if you can’t ride your must-dos.

13:30 – Is there a “slow” time during the holidays?

17:26 – Disneyland vs. Disney World at Christmas.

19:58 – Final verdict: is holiday Disney worth it?