What You Need to Know About visiting Disney World in April

Things begin to heat up in Disney World in April; visitors can expect highs in the mid-eighties. Theme park crowds pick up as well, peaking during Spring Break and Easter weekend.

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is in full bloom in April, featuring special events, concerts, classes, and exhibits. Look for the Star Wars' Half Marathon Weekend toward the end of the month, inspired by Darth Vader and the storm troopers of Star Wars, Events during the weekend will also include a Star Wars 10K, Star Wars 5K, Star Wars Dark Side Challenge and the Disney Kids Races.

Tip: Pick up a PhotoPass Card! The sun is shining, the flowers are in bloom, and photo opportunities abound as the Disney characters come out to meet guests in a variety of photo-friendly locations. Disney's PhotoPass Card is free and you'll only pay for the photos you decide to purchase.

Both Easter and Spring Break often occur in April, so expect to see peak crowds at Disney World during these times. Rides, restaurants, and resorts will be crowded as both vacationers and locals flood the parks.

Tip: You can make the most of your trip by using FastPass+, single rider lines, rider switch program, and by making dining reservations well in advance.

Peak crowds mean that Disney will be bringing out top-notch entertainment. Look for extended hours, parades and shows to keep you entertained and busy. Disney resort guests can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours in the morning or evening and get a little more time to play in the parks.

• Even if you are not a gardener, check out the Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot. This event features special exhibits, playgrounds, and activities you can't find any other time of year at Disney World. Look for the garden-themed playgrounds and butterfly hatchery scattered in and around Future World if you are traveling with small children.
• Avoid heavy Easter crowds by taking advantage of Disney's Extra Magic Hours program, available exclusively for resort guests.
• Disney pools are heated, so you can still take a dip in the morning or evening even if the air is cool.

• Beware of April showers. Pack a poncho or light rain jacket for every member of your party.
• Pace yourself. While there is plenty to see and do, it is easy to get overwhelmed and tired out after the first few days of your trip.
• Expect lines for big attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Soarin'. Visit these rides early in the morning for best results.

^{Edited by Dawn Henthorn, Florida Travel Expert since June 2000}