There are many DVC members who no longer have school age children in the home. Many are retired. There are also many members who home schoo!. There are international members with seasons opposite to the US.How can September -January be BUSIER than August? Is not August a month which schoolchildren are on vacation across America?
Not “busier”, per se, but higher demand. DVC should be booked at 98%-100% capacity all year round. But, yes, the fall books up very quickly. Folks here on the forums are quick to point out that DVC’s demand doesn’t line up with the traditional Disney demand.How can September -January be BUSIER than August? Is not August a month which schoolchildren are on vacation across America?
I've given up on even trying to figure out the best times. There is no such thing as high or low demand anymore IMO. I had a hell of a time getting 2 nights in February. I've just accepted that I'll check the RAT for when we would like to go, and if it's available book it. If not, figure out another time or stalk the RAT.
New to DVC?
DVC members are connoisseurs of low point values, good weather and formerly low crowds (on which some long time members have based their habits). They've done enough commando touring that they like events - like marathons or Food and Wine or the holiday decorations - but like the ones they can plan in advance (because of the booking windows). They often don't have kids (or kids at home). In our case we bought fifteen years ago when our kids were young - do you know what happens to preschoolers in fifteen years? - they become college students who don't travel with you, freeing you up to travel without referring to a school schedule.
DVC members with kids in school are likely to work school schedules or - especially when the kids are elementary age - just pull them for a week.
Most of the South seems to go back to school early (up here in Minnesota school starts around Labor Day - and we've done end of August trips - they are hot, but the crowds are pretty light and room availability is pretty good) With half the country being in school still in June, and the other half starting up in August - plus international traveler, homeschoolers, year round districts, and people who just pull their kids for the week, local school schedules are not a great predictor for crowds.
You know exactly HOW late?Food & Wine now is starting in late August and goes through almost mid-November. DVC owners love F&W. And any Disney Run event.
Dates have not yet been announced for 2018. Should be soon, though.You know exactly HOW late?