Does It Get Cold at Disney World? What Canadians Need to Know
Does it actually get cold at Disney World? When planning a Disney trip, most people picture sunny skies and warm temperatures. After all, it’s Florida—how cold could it really get?
Surprisingly, winter in Orlando can bring some chilly weather, especially in the mornings and evenings. Many visitors assume it’s warm year-round, only to find themselves unprepared for cooler temperatures. If you’re heading to Disney during the winter months, packing wisely is key!
Welcome back to Mickey à la Carte, where we love to help Canadians plan the perfect magical trips! As Canadians who have visited Disney in January multiple times, we can tell you firsthand: yes, it does get cold at Disney World! Here’s everything you need to know about Orlando’s winter weather and how to pack smartly for a comfortable and fun-filled vacation.
How Cold Does It Get at Disney World?
While Florida is known for its warmth, winter temperatures in Orlando can dip lower than you might expect. In the months of December, January, and February, mornings and evenings can be chilly, sometimes dropping to around 5°C (40°F). On some days, daytime highs can still reach the low 20s°C (70s°F), but don’t underestimate the sudden temperature swings. One day might be sunny and warm, and the next could bring cold winds and overcast skies.
What This Means for Your Disney Trip
Many visitors arrive in Orlando expecting summer-like weather year-round, only to be caught off guard by the unexpected chill. The last thing you want is to be shivering while waiting for the fireworks at Magic Kingdom or feeling too cold to enjoy a leisurely evening at EPCOT. Trust us—being prepared makes all the difference!
How to Pack for a Winter Disney Trip
The key to staying comfortable at Disney World in the winter is layering. Since temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, packing a variety of clothing options will help you stay warm in the morning and evening while keeping cool during the warmer afternoons. Here’s what we recommend:
- A light jacket or fleece – Essential for cooler mornings and nights.
- A warm sweater or hoodie – Great for layering over a t-shirt.
- Long pants or leggings – Consider packing a mix of leggings and lighter pants – jeans tend to get heavy to carry around!
- T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts – Mix and match for different temperatures.
- A packable rain jacket – Florida weather is unpredictable, and rain can make it feel even colder.
- Comfortable shoes and warm socks – Your feet will thank you!
Extra Tips for Staying Warm
- Check the weather forecast daily – The temperatures can vary greatly even within the same week.
- Bring a small backpack to store extra layers – You can always take off your jacket and stash it away if the afternoon warms up.
- Consider bringing gloves and a beanie – If you’re sensitive to the cold, these can be lifesavers on extra chilly days.
- Stay warm during nighttime shows – If you’re planning to watch fireworks or parades, bring an extra layer to stay cozy while waiting.
Yes, Disney World can get cold—but with the right preparation, you can stay comfortable and still have a magical trip! Don’t let the Florida stereotype fool you; Orlando’s winter weather is real, and a little planning goes a long way. So, fellow Canadians, pack those layers and enjoy every moment of your Disney adventure, no matter the temperature!
Have you ever been surprised by cold weather at Disney? Let us know in the comments! For more Disney-inspired content catered for Canadians, be sure to follow us on Instagram and TikTok! You can also check out our Etsy Shop for our personalizable merch!
