30
Credit: Inside the MagicIf you’ve ever walked into Walt Disney World or Disneyland and been greeted by the sound of synchronized chants, the flash of oversized bows, and the sight of entire teams decked out in matching jackets, you’ve likely stumbled into one of Disney’s massive cheerleading competitions.
Events like the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship and the D2 Summit bring thousands of cheerleaders, coaches, and their families to the parks — and when they arrive, there’s no mistaking it.
While Disney parks are no strangers to crowds, the atmosphere during these cheer competition weekends is something else entirely. Think high-energy groups moving through the parks together, spontaneous cheers breaking out in the middle of ride queues, and a level of excitement that’s hard to match. But with that excitement also comes longer wait times, crowded resorts, and sometimes, a little bit of chaos.
For those who prefer a more laid-back Disney experience, knowing when these competitions take place can help you avoid the busiest and most spirited times. But if you love a lively, high-energy vibe, you might just find yourself swept up in the enthusiasm. Either way, it’s worth understanding how these events impact the parks — and sometimes, the resorts — in unexpected ways.
A Cheer Invasion at Disney Hotels
Recently, a cheer competition at Disneyland Resort resulted in massive security lines, and now it seems the crowds at Walt Disney World have taken things even further. A Reddit post titled “Manage expectations during cheer comps” has gone viral, detailing a guest’s firsthand experience with how quickly things can get out of hand when the cheer squads descend on Disney’s resorts.
The situation started as a simple disagreement over the hot tub jets at a Disney World hotel but quickly spiraled into something much bigger. Despite the hot tub being clearly designated for guests 16 and older, a group of cheerleaders and their parents decided the rules didn’t quite apply to them.
What followed was a standoff that led to security and the facility manager shutting the hot tub down entirely. And according to those who witnessed the whole thing, the scene was one for the books.
The Story From the Source
Here’s the full account from the original Reddit post:
“For those wondering about visiting WDW during cheer weeks — a cautionary tale. Be weary of the power of numbers.
What started as a simple dispute over whether the jets in the hot tub should be kept on quickly boiled over (literally) into an army of teeny boppers and their enthusiastic parents lording over the hot tub and getting the whole thing closed.
The sign for the hot tub clearly stated 16 and older, but the chaperone for one of the groups felt that as a 17-year-old, she could unilaterally allow her group to dictate the controls on the hot tub.
The adults tried to reason, “Just put your drinks somewhere where the water won’t get in them.” This was insufficient. “There’s a much larger pool over there where there are no invasive jets and bubbles.” Again, unacceptable. To be clear, no angry words were spoken, but one of the older girls felt strongly enough in her convictions to swear at the adults. This was apparently the hill they would die on.
It wasn’t until 30 or more cheerleaders had managed to squeeze into the hot tub — goaded on by their angry parents — that security followed by the facility manager showed up. Accusations of drunkenness and mean-spirited behavior were lobbed. In reality, it was mostly civil, at least as civil as a mob of 9-12-year-olds can be. Unfortunately, though, no compromise was reached, and security decided to close the hot tub.
If you choose to visit the parks and stay at nearby hotels while cheer competitions are going on, be prepared to have your vacation influenced by the needs of the many. And if you happen to like an active hot tub, muster the fortitude to have the jets managed by youngsters. Hopefully, your experience is more diplomatic.”
https://www.reddit.com/r/WaltDisneyWorld/comments/1j6h11a/manage_expectations_during_cheer_comps/
Guest Reactions
As you can imagine, the comment section on the post quickly filled up with others sharing their own experiences and frustrations about visiting Disney during cheer competition weeks.
One Orlando local weighed in:
“I really feel bad for people who have to go during cheer comps. We are local and don’t always pay attention to when they are going on, but once we get out there and realize, it’s usually a shorter day for us. I also used to work the shuttle buses for these comps, and I can attest — some of the most awful behavior from parents and kids alike.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, saying they avoid Disney altogether during these events because of the sheer volume and intensity of the cheerleading crowds.
What You Need to Know About Cheer Competition Weeks
If you’re planning a Disney trip and want to avoid the heightened crowds and energy that come with cheer competitions, it’s a good idea to check the event calendar ahead of time. Competitions like the UCA and D2 Summit take place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Disney World, but their impact is felt across the parks and resorts.
During these events, you can expect:
- Longer wait times: Groups often travel together and enter queues in large numbers.
- Crowded resort pools and common areas: As this hot tub story shows, shared spaces can get very busy and sometimes contentious.
- High-energy atmosphere: If you’re looking for a relaxing, laid-back Disney trip, this might not be the best time to visit.
- Spontaneous cheer routines: It’s not uncommon to see teams breaking into chants or routines while waiting in line or walking through the parks.
How to Avoid the Cheer Chaos
If you’re set on a quieter Disney experience, here are a few tips:
- Check competition dates: Events like the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship and the D2 Summit happen at specific times of year. Avoid those weekends if possible.
- Stay at a non-host resort: Disney resorts like the All-Star properties often host large groups. Opt for a more deluxe resort if you want a quieter stay.
- Plan early mornings and late nights: Cheer teams often stick to competition schedules, so parks may be quieter at rope drop or later in the evening.
Is It All Bad?
Of course, not everyone minds the lively atmosphere that comes with these events. Some guests enjoy the infectious energy and love seeing the team spirit on display. But if you’re hoping for a more serene escape, it’s definitely something to keep in mind when planning your trip.
Cheer competition weeks at Disney bring a whole new vibe to the parks — one filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and sometimes a bit of chaos. While the energy can be contagious, it can also lead to disruptions like the one described in the now-viral hot tub incident.
Whether you choose to embrace the spirited atmosphere or avoid it entirely, knowing what to expect can help you plan the best possible Disney vacation. And if you do find yourself in a crowded hot tub surrounded by a cheer squad takeover? Well, just hope security doesn’t have to shut the whole thing down.