
Traveling to the Disney World theme parks this fall and wondering what to wear to Disney World in October? October is one of my favorite months to visit Orlando and the Disney parks, as this time of year is fairly temperate and beautifully decorated for the fall. In my personal experience, crowds are generally lighter and there are fewer hot days than you will experience in the late spring and summer months.
It is a great time to celebrate at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Also, October is the perfect time to visit the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, one of my favorite special events in this magical place.
Keep reading to find out all of my favorite things to explore and discover during October and the best things to pack for your Disney vacation! Be sure to sign up for my free newsletter for a complete packing list.

How hot is Disney World in October?
If you want to know what to wear to Disney World in October, it is always a good idea to check the weather forecast. Start checking about 7-10 days before you travel. My favorite app is Accu Weather for the most accurate forecast. Also, be sure to put Lake Buena Vista, FL as your location, as that is the closest location for the Walt Disney World resort.
In general, high temperatures range up to 86 degrees F, with the average high reaching around 80 degrees. In Central Florida, cooler temperatures in the early morning and late evening can get down to around 65-70 degrees. Historical averages are between 75-80 degrees F.
In general, a good option is to pack a few long-sleeved t-shirts or long pants for early mornings and evenings for your Walt Disney World vacation. At the same time, you may want to throw in some portable fans and short-sleeved shirts for the warm weather while you are in the happiest place on Earth. It can still get quite warm in the afternoons, so be sure to check that weather forecast!
Also, it is a great idea to include sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses on your packing list for October. The warm sun in the Florida weather can sneak up on you, even in early October, so be sure to protect your skin while you travel!
Do I have to make a park pass reservation for October?
Yes! Please be sure to make a park pass reservation for your Disney World vacation until early 2024. Before you purchase your tickets, double-check the park pass reservation system to make sure openings are available for your dates.
Purchase your tickets and then link them to your My Disney Experience account. This account holds vital information about your trip, so it is essential to have the updated app on your phone. Here, you will see your tickets linked, park passes, and any resort reservations, along with dining reservations.
You can also mobile order through the app and even check out from various stores throughout the park with mobile checkout. Be sure to place quick service mobile orders through the app, so you can walk right up to the pickup counter without having to wait for your food.
Another essential tool is finding wait times throughout the park through the app. This, along with the tip board and Disney Genie, will help you plan your day and itinerary.
Is it crowded at Disney World in October?
With Columbus Day weekend in early October and many schools experiencing fall breaks, October can be a bit more crowded than in years past. However, I still love the cooler temperatures and the beauty of the fall decorations, so I think it is well worth a visit in October.
If you are choosing to travel during fall break, be sure to book your park pass reservations as soon as you purchase your park tickets. This is the most important thing!
Also, make any dining reservations at your 60-day out mark. A good option is to always use travel agents specializing in Disney (like myself!) You won’t pay any more for your Disney vacation, and we can help you make a great itinerary at no extra cost. It is a great way to make sure you feel confident in your planning before you arrive at the parks.

Can you swim at Disney World in October?
Yes, you can still swim at Disney World in October. With the average high temperatures and even some hot weather here and there, it is still a good time to get in some great swimming time and even some time in the water parks.
Check Disney’s website for October hours for Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Pack a bathing suit, cover up, flip flops, and sunglasses if you plan to visit the water parks.
In addition, Disney resorts keep their pools heated throughout the year. Water rides will be available in October throughout the Disney parks, so it is always a good idea to also keep a poncho in your park bag, if you plan a ride on Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom park or Kali River Rapids in Animal Kingdom.
What should you wear to Disney World in October?
For my Disney packing list for October, my personal preferences include:
- tank tops
- cardigans
- light jacket
- poncho
- small umbrella for rainy days
- face masks
- long sleeved tshirts
- long pants
- short sleeved shirts
- tennis shoes
- waterproof sandals
- bathing suit
- cover up
- sunglasses
- hat
- sunscreen
- Magic Bands
- cell phone
- portable cell phone charger
- credit card
- prescription medications
- first aid kit with band aids and moleskin
- refillable water bottle
- snacks
- chewing gum
- laundry bag for hotel room
- autograph book and Sharpie for favorite character meets
- portable chargeable fans for long lines in the sun
- dressier outfits for nice dinners
- costumes for Disney After Hours Boo Bash or Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party (no masks are allowed, according to Disney’s dress code)
- glow sticks for young children
What should you pack in your Disney World park bag in October?
Be sure to pick a comfortable pack bag for your Disney World resort vacation. Hop here to read more about great options for Disney World park bags.

Here is what I always include in my park bag for walking down Main Street USA, Disney Springs, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot:
- sunscreen
- sunglasses
- cell phone
- credit card
- photo ID
- lip balm
- poncho
- portable charger
- Magic Bands
- snacks for the whole family
- refillable water bottle for each family member
- autograph book for meeting Disney characters
- hat or visor
Does it rain at Disney World in October?

Mid August through late October is typically considered the hurricane season for Central Florida. I generally don’t let this discourage me from planning a trip to Disney World, but always be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip. In general, September seems to be the wettest month in Orlando, and October tends to have less severe storms.
Also, consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip. It is always good to have a plan in case of bad weather. Travel insurance is also valuable to have in case of illness or emergency.
Rain storms in Orlando are common. I always suggest packing a small umbrella, a rain jacket and a poncho. For typical afternoon rain showers, it is an easy way to ensure that you can keep moving through the parks, despite the storms. The good news is the parks tend to clear out during storms, so it is the perfect way to enjoy a less crowded park, if you can stick it out.
If you are bringing a small child who requires a stroller, also consider packing a stroller cover for rain storms. It is the worst to walk out of a ride or a restaurant to a soaking wet stroller that your child refuses to sit in!
What special events are going on at Disney World in October?

One of the biggest special events at Disney World in October is Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival. This festival runs from about July to November. This festival does not require a separate special ticket, but it does require a park ticket and park reservation for Epcot.
You can venture all throughout the World Showcase of Epcot and visit many food and drink booths featuring international cuisines. Alcoholic beverages are also available during this event.
I think October is a great time to visit Epcot because it is finally cooling off. You can really enjoy eating the items more, especially hot food items, when it isn’t quite so hot in Orlando!
There are special food demonstrations available, along with musical guests at Eat to the Beat Concert series. Try to visit during weekdays, as weekends can get quite busy with locals coming to Epcot. Also, if you have young children, the crowds can get quite rowdy in the evenings. Keep this in mind when planning your park days at Epcot during the festivals. You may want to visit in the mornings, afternoons and early evenings with a young family.
Another special event is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party. Believe it or not, it starts in late August and runs through October 31. Guests can dress up in fun costumes (no masks). Just make sure to wear something comfortable and breathable, given the warm weather. Enjoy the Halloween Boo To You Parade, Not So Spooky Fireworks, trick or treat throughout the park, and take advantage of the lower crowds for all of your favorite rides.
Also, be sure to check out all of the special events, foods and decorations for the 50th Anniversary of Disney World. There are beautiful statues throughout the parks, along with unique snacks, drinks and entertainment for this celebration of the Wald Disney World parks.
What are some ideas for costumes for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party?
If you are considering buying a ticket to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party, you want to think about your costume!
Some things to consider:
- The parks will still be warm. Consider a costume that is cool and allows you to move around comfortably.
- Think about your child’s comfort. Scratchy princess dresses and high heeled plastic shoes will ensure whining will occur. Save those for home or perhaps a meal at a character restaurant.
- Masks are only allowed for children 13 and under. Adults are not allowed to cover their faces.
Easy costume ideas for kids and adults might include:
- the traditional Mickey and Minnie – don your best mouse ears, black and white with red accents for Mickey and pink and white polka dots for Minnie and imitate the fabulous couple
- pirates – visit your local Dollar Store for eye patches, and bandanas, and accessorize a basic black and white ensemble
- Disney bounding – get inspired by your favorite princess and use their color scheme for your costume. Consider a yellow skirt with blue top and red headband for Snow White; an elegant blue dress with a pearl headband for Cinderella; a teal green crop top and pants for Ariel with a shell necklace
- Marvel characters – our son loved the Marvel superheroes when he was younger. These costumes tend to be fairly easy to slide on over regular clothes and not too warm. Consider visiting Wal Mart or Target right after Halloween to stock up on clearance items to save for future Halloween parties.

What are the park hours at Disney World in October?
Be sure to check Disney World’s park hours calendar before your visit. You will want to keep in mind that Magic Kingdom will close earlier on evenings that feature Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party. This is a separate ticketed event during the evening hours. Crowds may typically be less on these days, since the park will close earlier.
Plan to visit Epcot during the week, instead of the weekend to avoid festival local crowds, if possible. Currently, lines for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind get quite long in the mornings. If you are not purchasing Genie Plus, Individual Lightning Lanes or trying for virtual cues, take advantage of getting to the park before opening time to cut down on your wait times.

In Epcot, you can also enjoy shorter wait times for rides like Soarin’ and Frozen Ever After. These rides have typically had extremely long wait times, but with the introduction of new attractions, you can now enjoy them without quite as long of a wait.
If you want to avoid the biggest crowds at Hollywood Studios, be sure to take advantage of the early morning hours. Those staying on Disney property can enter the parks 30 minutes before official opening time. This can be a key time to experience rides like Rise of the Resistance or Slinky Dog Dash that attract large crowds throughout the day.
Animal Kingdom is also a great park to visit early in the morning. Take advantage of the cooler temps and the time of day when most animals tend to be most active. I love to hit Pandora’s Flight of Passage first and then head over to Kilimanjaro Safari, followed by Expedition Everest.
Perks for Visiting Disney World in October
If you are debating a trip to Disney World Resort in October, here are a few perks to consider:
- Temperatures are generally lower in October versus late spring and summer months.
- Rain chances may be less in October than in September.
- You can buy tickets to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Enjoy a less full park with a fall-themed parade, candy, and special shows and fireworks.
- Enjoy a visit to Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival with your park pass reservation to Epcot.
- I love the fall decorations of pumpkins and fall leaves throughout the parks! These are especially beautiful at Magic Kingdom, walking down Main Street.
- Crowds will be lower in October than in the later weeks in late November and December, in preparation for the holidays.
I hope this post helps you plan what to wear to Disney World in October! Enjoy the planning process and sign up for my free packing tips for Disney World.
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