July Disney World Crowds

If you’re planning to visit Walt Disney World on the 4th of July, expect to encounter heavy crowds! July is an extremely hot month—and just as high as the temperature might be, so are the July Disney World crowds. Though the crowds are heavy, the fireworks on the 4th of July are truly spectacular—as are many of the other holiday celebrations we’re about to discuss.

This might sound kind of crazy… But despite the July crowds, the 4th of July is still one of my favorite times of year to visit WDW. Yes, it might be a bold (unpopular) claim, but I’m sticking to it! The fireworks on the 4th of July are even more spectacular than you can imagine (or you can see on YouTube). The power and emphatic patriotism that comes from the abundance of fireworks in the finale of each show at the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT is something you almost can’t accurately describe unless you’re there (and feel the ricochet of the fireworks in your chest).

Plus, the Voices of Liberty perform a special annual show at The America Gardens Theatre (outside at The American Adventure) – you just have to hear recordings of former member Tiffany Coburn sing the Star Spangled Banner to close out the show. Simply stunning!

If you’re already feeling the urge to plan a trip to WDW in July, our friends at Destinations to Travel can help you do just that! Reach out to them here (and let them know Danny send you).

Typically, the month of July is quite crowded—but over the past few years (aside from on or around the 4th of July), the crowd levels have calmed down a bit. You can expect the weekend of the 4th of July to still be very crowded, but otherwise, since there’s only an EPCOT festival happening during the first week, and given the high temperatures, the crowds could be somewhat “manageable”—due to slightly fewer locals visiting than you might expect.

Dad’s Guide to WDW Crowd Calendar Disclaimer

This calendar is based on historical facts as we know them today, and personal experiences. Walt Disney World is an ever-changing destination and you might find the crowds, weather, or seasonal experiences to be different from what we’ve predicted.

How to Avoid July Disney World Crowds

If your ultimate goal for a July trip to WDW is to visit during the least crowded part of the month, of course, you should steer clear of the 4th of July.

Even though an EPCOT festival is only happening for (around) the first week, weekends tend to be more crowded than weekdays, and if you’re okay with withstanding the often (daily!) rainstorms at the parks, you can have the advantage! The parks historically get substantially less crowded after the rain clears out many guests—making the attraction wait times decrease just for you!

As with any busy time of the year, not only do your standard suggestions to visit the parks early (in time for rope drop) apply, but that thought process is even extended for pools at the WDW resort hotels. If you’re planning to have a pool day (or multiple pool days, which is a fantastic idea for July visits), be sure to head down to the pool early (before it opens) to get in line to secure your spot (lounge chairs and/or a table with an umbrella and chairs). This is especially important to keep in mind if you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort with a popular pool (like Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts)!

Find more tips to avoid crowds at WDW here.

July Events

EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival – Food, flowers, topiaries – oh my! This festival is known for its gorgeous topiaries of some of our favorite Disney characters, and its fresh eats from the outdoor kitchens located throughout the park. Oh—and we couldn’t forget about the Garden Rocks Concert Series, which takes place at the America Gardens Theatre (in The American Adventure)!
4th of July Celebrations – Special events happen around WDW, featuring “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” at the Magic Kingdom, and “The Heartbeat of Freedom” at EPCOT, which usually took place after IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Special patriotic merchandise and snack offerings can be found in all parks, resorts, and Disney Springs.

The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Wondering when is the best time to visit WDW? Of course, that really depends on you—your preferences, your schedule, and what’s on your must-do list. But, before booking your next vacation, here’s a breakdown of the factors you should consider.

July Disney World Crowds