Below I’ll let you know what to wear to Disney World in February, what to pack, and what the weather will be like. I’ll also go over crowds and events in February at Disney World.
What to Wear to Disney in February: Quick Answer
You’ll want to pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings, but you’ll typically be down to shorts and t-shirts in the middle of the day. It rains less during February than the summer and fall, but it is still a real possibility. It’s also possible that a cold front will come in, bringing uncharacteristically cold weather but almost never below freezing, so pack accordingly.
Florida weather is…different—brutal summers, mild winters, and a lot of rain. However, going to Disney World in February avoids a lot of that.
Going to Disney World in February has been a family tradition for us since 2018 because we have a winter break (Presidents’ Day) for my kids’ school, and my wife and son have birthdays in February. So, all my tips will come from personal experience. I really enjoy the cooler weather on the off-chance that I can wear a Disney hoodie, which still doesn’t happen much.
Jump to Section:
Weather at Disney World in February
What to Pack for Disney in February
What to Pack for Disney Any Time of Year
Festivals and Holidays at Disney in February
What Not to Pack for Disney World
Can You Swim at Disney World in February?
Are the Disney Water Parks Open in February?
Weather at Disney World in February
The weather in February in Orlando is amazing—average high in the low 70s (low 20s Celsius) and average low in the mid-50s (low teens Celsius) on average. That being said, the temperature can fluctuate to as high as the low-80s (high 20s Celsius) or as low as the low 40s (4-7 Celsius).
Average temperatures each day from January to March, with details for February. https://weatherspark.com/m/17721/2/Average-Weather-in-February-in-Orlando-Florida-United-States#Figures-Temperature
It’s also important to know how the temperature changes throughout the day and in intense sunshine. The weather will typically be cool until about 10AM. Then it will start heating up, reaching the high around 4PM. Finally, it will start to cool around 7:30PM.
It’s not just us, everyone’s wearing shorts and short sleeves in February, and if you look closely, that ice cream is melting.
Also, you’ll probably be outside and moving on pavement and in direct sunlight more than you are at home. And the intensity of the sunlight and the physical exertion will make you feel warmer than you’d expect for 75 degrees. I’ll go over this more later, but the sun is still dangerous even in February. If you’re prone to sunburn, take precautions accordingly.
My family, perfectly comfortable in shorts, t-shirts, and thin dresses in February at Disney World.
Finally, while February is blessedly not the rainy season, Florida is always prone to sporadic rain showers. Always be prepared for rain, and don’t fret over the forecast. The showers usually come and go quickly. February is one of the driest months in Florida, though, so hopefully you’ll avoid the rain. I can only find one February picture of my family in rain ponchos.
Awesome Fact: If the temperature in Florida ever drops into the 40s, it’s possible for iguanas to become immobile and start falling out of trees. Don’t worry. They aren’t dead. It's on my bucket list to see an iguana fall out of a tree.
What to Pack for Disney in February
For Disney World in February, you’ll want to pack layers: pants, long-sleeve t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts/skirts and t-shirts.
And here’s a downloadable packing list for your whole trip:
As I mentioned in the weather section, it will start and end cool. Therefore, it’s nice to have a hoodie or light jacket with you for rope dropping and staying for the fireworks. Here’s a great one that’s cheap on Amazon. There are tons of options for men and women.
Next, I recommend you bring both pants/leggings and shorts/skirts. I get so hot in sunlight and walking that I can almost never wear pants at Disney World. I can only wear pants if it’s below 70 and/or overcast. Even then, with pushing the stroller or carrying kids, my body temperature stays pretty high. I think a good rule of thumb is dress for what you think you’d wear if it was 5-10 degrees warmer. We always pack a variety of long-sleeved shirts and short sleeve shirts to make sure we're prepared for everything. I also don't have a problem pushing my sleeves up and down as needed.
One of two days in my most recent trip to Disney World in February that I could wear pants instead of shorts. Also, the most epic of all my Disney shirts, I’ll give you a link in the comment section if you ask.
The exception to this is if it’s overcast, drizzling, or cold and windy. Then you may want a fleece with a shell, pants, and even a winter hat. In 20+ trips, this has only happened to us once and not in February. If you’re really desperate, borrow the extra blanket from your hotel room (and bring it back).
This diva is the only evidence of anyone in my family wearing a hoodie at Disney World in February, and it’s at rope drop (park open).
Another exception is if you are naturally colder and don’t plan to move around a lot. For instance, you may want to dress warmer if you are in a scooter or a wheelchair, and don’t be surprised if your stroller-bound kids are colder. An easy fix is to use the sweatshirt you brought to cover your kids like a blanket.
By the way, if you're looking for a good stroller for Disney, check my posts on the best single stroller for Disney and best double stroller for Disney. I polled a bunch of Disney veteran parents to put these lists together.
Finally, if you’re not bringing a stroller to Disney, you’ll want to bring a bag for supplies but especially to store your layers in when it gets hot. You could take them back to your hotel for a mid-day break, but you might need them again as the temperature begins to drop at night.
In the next section, I’ll give you more packing tips that pertain to any Disney trip, regardless of the month.
What to Pack for Disney Any Time of Year
For any trip to Disney, you’ll want a few necessities. First, bring all your Disney gear—hats, ears, shirts, jewelry, bubble wands, and three-fingered gloves! Here’s an Amazon list I put together if you’re in need.
You also need rain gear. Don’t wait to buy this at the park. Nobody wants to spend $20 on a flimsy poncho when you can buy tons of them at Walmart or Amazon.
My daughter in a poncho and a tiara in February 2019 at Disney World.
If you’re bringing a stroller or scooter, make sure you bring a poncho or shower curtain and clips to cover them. It hurts the vibe for your kids when you get off the ride to find a puddle in the stroller seat, and it’s not good for the goldfish snacks.
Next, it’s my opinion that regardless of the time of year, you should be wearing socks and running/walking shoes. You’ll see an enormous array of footwear at Disney World, but I will never travel 10 miles a day by foot in anything that wasn’t designed for that kind of mileage. One time I tried to wear Hey Dude-style loafers and ended up with shin splints.
Here’s my article about the best shoes to take to Disney World.
Whatever you do, don’t wear flip flops or heels. And, make sure you break in your tennis shoes before wearing them in the park. Blisters and Disney rash are real, my friends.
My kids are young enough to wear what we tell them, but I’m ready for the day when they want to pick their own shoes. Then, all I can do is say I told you so at the end of the day.
Now on to sun protection. It doesn’t matter what the temperature or cloud cover is, subtropical sunlight is intense. If you have fair skin, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses or you might be a blind lobster on day two.
By afternoon in February, it’s often warm enough for the Magic Kingdom splash pad.
On a related note, even if the weather is really mild, you’ll be walking upwards to 10 miles a day. Make sure you stay hydrated. You can bring in your own water, purchase it at Disney, or use the free water stations located around Disney World.
If you’re not used to Florida water, it’s very sulphury. In other words, it tastes like water with the essence of rotten eggs. If that’s not your favorite, bring bottled water.
Finally, remember that you’ll walking a lot, using the restroom a lot, climbing in and out of rides, moving at high speeds, and so on. Think about doing all those activities and pack practical clothing. You might look amazing in a tuxedo or ballgown, but 8 hours in, you might be regretting it.
Festivals and Holidays at Disney in February
One of the best parts of visiting Disney World in February is the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. In 2027, the festival runs from January 15 through March 1, so you can enjoy it throughout February.
The festival includes amazing performances, art displays, food studios, and interactive art experiences. My favorite part is the photo opportunities that let you step into famous paintings.
My lovely wife is the screamer in the famous painting at Epcot Festival of the Arts.
Presidents' Day falls on February 15 in 2027. Many school systems have a long weekend, and some have the entire week off. This used to be our favorite time to visit because of our kids' winter break, but Presidents' Day weekend has become increasingly crowded.
Presidents' Day (or Lincoln's birthday) was especially important to Walt Disney. As a child, Walt dressed up as Abraham Lincoln and recited the Gettysburg Address at school every year (as cool kids tend to do). His fascination with Lincoln eventually inspired Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland, which laid the groundwork for the Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom. If you want to be extra-niche Disney, you could always wear a Lincoln T-shirt.
Valentine's Day is February 14, and there's plenty of Disney Valentine's Day merchandise available if you and your sweetie want to dress for the occasion. Incidentally, Valentine's Day also falls on Super Bowl Sunday in 2027.
Next, the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend runs February 25 through March 1 in 2027. The actual half marathon takes place on February 28, with a 5K and 10K earlier in the weekend.
The races can bring additional visitors and affect transportation early in the morning. Runners also tend to head to the parks after their races, so you may see a different crowd pattern than usual.
How Crowded Is Disney World in February 2027?
February has a reputation for being one of the slower months at Disney World. That might have been true years ago, but I wouldn't count on low crowds anymore.
In 2027, Mardi Gras falls on February 9, when some school systems in Louisiana and other Southern states have time off. Disney is also hosting a major cheerleading and dance competition February 4–7. Combined with Presidents' Day and winter school breaks, these events could make February considerably busier than you'd expect.
According to current crowd predictions, February 1–4 should be the least crowded days of the month. February 5–21 looks particularly busy, especially around Presidents' Day. Crowds may ease somewhat February 22–24 before increasing again for the Princess Half Marathon Weekend.
These are predictions rather than guarantees, of course. But if you're planning a February Disney World vacation in 2027, I'd prioritize the first few days of the month if you have flexibility.
The good news is that February's weather is still a major advantage. Even when the crowds are heavy, I'd much rather wait in line in 70-degree weather than in the middle of a Florida summer.
What Not to Pack for Disney World
Here’s a few things you don’t need at Disney World—in February or ever. First, people over 16 can’t wear a costume (unless it’s a Halloween Party). This is to prevent people impersonating cast members, hurting the brand, or worse, tricking kids for nefarious reasons.
Next, you won’t need a parka or winter coat. It will never get that cold, and it will take up so much room in your luggage.
Third, I want to reiterate. Do not wear heels or flip-flops. You will regret it.
Finally, this is a family place. Don’t bring obscene or graphic clothing to Disney World. Even if it’s Disney themed. Especially if it’s Disney themed. Next, don’t push the envelope on risqué. Everyone has different opinions on what modesty looks like, but Cast Members have been known to turn people away for inappropriate clothing.
Now on to a weather and clothing related question.
Can You Swim at Disney World in February?
You can swim any time of year at Disney World. The pools are heated to 80 degrees. This sounds nice, but it’s not as warm as you might think. If it’s below 70 degrees outside, many people struggle with the pool water temperature and getting out of the pool.
In general, kids don’t mind as much as adults. I don’t know if we have more sensitive nervous systems, or we’re just bigger whiners, but it is what it is. I’ve also heard that people from colder climates tend to enjoy winter swimming more. I'm not from one of the northern states or Canada, so I can't vouch for that.
I have a bunch of pictures of us in the pool in February, but I can’t remember if I was a willing party to this.
The kids look happy, but my smile looks a little forced: us in the pool in February at Coronado Springs. All Disney resorts provide those life jackets.
Several moderate Disney resorts and all of the deluxes have a hot tub (not to mention plenty of non-Disney hotels in the vicinity). This is a good option if you really need an aquatic experience in February.
If you’re heading to Disney in February, bring your swimsuit just in case. For an even colder month, check my what to wear to Disney World in January.
Are the Disney Water Parks Open in February?
The water parks are also open year-round. Post-covid, Disney has made sure to keep at least one water park open at any given time. The water at the water parks is also heated. So, if you're brave enough to go to a water park in slightly colder weather, it'll be a good idea to bring a bathing suit with you on your trip.
They will close for what they consider extreme cold. There doesn’t seem to be a consensus on the exact temperature, but it seems to be when the highs drop below 70 and lows drop below 50: in other words, when it starts raining iguanas.
Conclusion and Further Reading
If you have other tips, outfit ideas, or other ideas about going to Disney World in February, I would be honored if you left a comment in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
I hope this helps you have an amazing February trip to the happiest and most magical place on earth. You chose well. It's a great time to go.
If you're looking for other times of year to go, check out my article about handling the heat at Disney World, or what to wear at Disney in April, and what to wear to Disney World in July. And I just finished what to wear to Disney in May!
And if you're trying to decide on a good place to stay, check out my arguments for staying onsite or offsite at Disney World.
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