Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

written by Debi Mitchell, specialist in Disney Destinations from O’Fallon, IL

There is no need to be afraid at this Halloween Party with Mickey and his pals!  On select nights throughout September and October, you can purchase tickets to attend this special party located in the Magic Kingdom.  It takes place from 7pm – midnight and is a fun-loving, spirited party.  Exclusive events include the “Boo To You” Halloween parade, the “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks show, trick-or-treating around the Magic Kingdom, and unique opportunities to meet some of your favorite Disney characters.

When my family attends the Halloween Party we make sure to see the special events that only take place on that night.  This year we went to the party on September the 13th, and entered the park at about 4pm using our Halloween party tickets.  Since we had linked those tickets online to our Magic Bands, all we had to do was tap our band in the exclusive Halloween Party entrance —really simple.  Once inside, we were also given a plastic Halloween Party bracelet so Cast Members could identify those that have paid for park admission for the Party.  We also were given special park maps for that night along with bags to trick or treat with.  The kids were anxious to pick up their special “Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card” that is only available on the night of a Halloween Party.  It didn’t take too long to get through the line since we did it early and then we headed off to dinner before enjoying the party events.  Once the party officially started, we didn’t want to take time to eat!

After dinner we immediately went to get a spot for the Villains’ Dance Mix & Mingle which takes place four times during the night in front of Cinderella’s Castle.  All the times for the shows are on your party map that you get when you enter the park.  By positioning ourselves along the curb we were able to watch the Villains’ show and then turn around and watch the parade.  The “Boo-to-You” parade takes place at 8:15pm and 10:30pm and starts in Frontierland.  The second parade is always less crowded but our son loves the parade so much that we always opt to watch them both anyways.  The Happy HalloWishes fireworks show takes place at 9:30pm immediately following the 9:15pm “Celebrate the Magic” show that transforms the castle with lights and animation.

Throughout the night the character dance parties were taking place in Tomorrowland with the Monsters, Inc. characters and inside the Diamond Horseshoe with Woody, Jesse, and Bullseye.  There are also a lot of special Disney character appearances throughout the night that you normally can’t find.  We took advantage of getting to meet three of the Disney princesses and their princes.

There are four trick-or-treat locations around the park and also two trails.  The trails lead you down a path to multiple treat stations. Even parents get a bag to collect candy!  Lots of fun!  If anyone in your family has food allergies they have options available at City Hall on Main Street.  All you have to do is ask.  They even have healthy (better for you than candy) alternatives available at certain stations.

There is special merchandise available ONLY during the Halloween event.  We all purchased the orange Halloween T-shirts, while many guests were lined up to get the pins.  The merchandise seemed very popular and so we got ours right away because we didn’t want to worry about them running out.  We found that they had trouble keeping the racks stocked, but if you asked, they were able to go get your size from the back.  There are also Halloween-themed treats available at different locations around the park.

We love attending the Halloween Party each year and this year I will be attending TWO parties.  Not only is it nice to have a more controlled crowd level during an event like this, but the excitement in the air is very noticeable.  From the Cast Member’s costumes to the costumes that the characters are wearing, you will see many details around you in the park to get you in the spirit of Halloween.

By purchasing tickets ahead of time, you can usually save some money.  Just ask your Wish Upon a Star Agent any questions you may have about the party.  Have fun!

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