Everyone saying "the raids will still be there in January" is missing the point. For week 1 raiders, missing 2-3 days right after release will ruin the Savage experience they're looking forward to. Isn't that enough for you to at least not be snide about it? I really dislike this sort of dismissive mocking response.

For "normal" (non week 1, non hardcore) statics, it will probably mean that they start 1-2 weeks later than the drop so no biggie. I think most statics won't go in blind so the average clear time might be "better" than usual because better guides will be available from the start. For racers, the 23rd is just early enough that it could be fine if they are done quickly enough. But I still think a few EU (maybe NA) RWF teams will drop out because a) some EU countries (notably Germany) celebrate Christmas Eve/the 24th and b) some players don't want to do hardcore raiding right before Christmas.

For week 1 PFers, this could be a reason to just skip the tier. I've already seen a few friends and acquaintances consider it. W1 statics will probably find a way but I wouldn't be surprised if there are way fewer than usual.