Is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Worth It?

August 1, 2015

We know as DA’s that Disney is certainly not inexpensive, so we scrimp and save what we can just so we can get closer to that next visit to the World. When it comes to hard ticket events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, my family always has to weigh the pros and cons and whether it would be worth the additional expense to attend the party. So, you ask, is it worth it? Read on and find out!

What is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP)?

There are special “hard ticket” events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offered at Walt Disney World throughout the year. These events require a separate ticket that you have to purchase, and the event is restricted to event ticket holders only. MNSSHP is held at various dates from September through November, and on these nights, guests are treated to a one-of-a-kind Halloween celebration that is in true Disney style. Party times are 7pm to 12 am.

What are the party dates this year?

September 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27
October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
November 1

What special things can I see and do at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

There are many unique sights and experiences that can only be found at MNSSHP, including:

Trick-or-treating! There are various trick-or-treat stands and trails located throughout Magic Kingdom. You will receive a treat bag when you enter the park, but you can bring an extra bag just in case – there are many opportunities to haul in some serious loot!
Everyone can get dressed up in costume! Teens and adults can now let go of their inner child and dress up like they’re not able to during regular park hours. There are some few rules to consider. For example, costumes should not:
- Have sharp or pointed materials
- Be offensive to other guests
- Contain weapons or things that can be mistaken as weapons
- Obstruct anyone’s view or ability to board rides and transportation
- Drag on the ground
Brand new for 2015, the Hocus Pocus Villains Spelltacular will take place at the Castle Forecourt Stage. According to the Disney Parks blog, the Sanderson Sisters from the movie Hocus Pocus return to the mortal world for one night during the Halloween season. And since they only have a few precious hours, they use their magic to throw the best, evil Halloween party ever! The show will feature appearances from Dr. Facilier, Oogie Boogie, Maleficent and other great Disney villains, and it will also showcase Halloween projections and special effects.
The Boo To You Parade is a special parade for this party only. Don’t miss the Headless Horseman, who rides through the parade route minutes before the start of the parade. There are two parade times, one at 8:15 pm and another 10:30 pm. The first parade can get pretty crowded so if you can, it is best to wait for the later one.
The Celebrate the Magic castle projection show gets its own Halloween twist where Disney villains are front and center.
While Wishes always has a special place in my heart, the Happy HalloWishes Fireworks is, in this author’s humble opinion, the best fireworks display at Disney.
The party offers the opportunity to see Disney characters dressed in their Halloween costumes. Don’t miss seeing Winnie the Pooh and friends in their Halloween best!
You can see special characters that are not usually found in the parks during regular days, like Jack Skellington & Sally, all Seven Dwarfs, the princesses paired with their princes, Cruella de Vil, Dr. Facilier, Frollo, Lotso, Sulley & Mike Wazowski, and many more.
For shopaholics like me, there are special Halloween-themed merchandise available only during party hours.
Dance the night away with some of your favorite Disney characters at Halloween dance parties in two locations at the park:
- Monstrous Scream-O-Ween Ball at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland
- Club Villain at the Diamond Horseshoe Saloon in Frontierland
There are special “magic shot” photo opportunities with PhotoPass photographers. Don’t forget to pose with the hitchhiking ghosts!
Rides have shorter waits, and many will be walk-ons!

How much does it cost?

Ticket prices vary depending on the party date you select:

September 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27 & October 1
- For advance purchases, adults are $68 and children age 3-9 are $63 (plus tax)
- For same day purchases, adults are $74 and children age 3-9 are $69 (plus tax)
October 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29 & November 1
- For advance purchases, adults are $74 and children age 3-9 are $69 (plus tax)
- For same day purchases, adults are $79 and children age 3-9 are $74 (plus tax)
October 31
- Advance and same day purchase tickets cost the same, adults are $87 and children age 3-9 are $82 (plus tax)
- If you have your heart set on being at Magic Kingdom on Halloween, purchase your tickets as early as possible – this date sells out quickly!

What other things should I consider?

Even though the party starts at 7pm, party ticket holders can enter the parks as early as 4pm. Come early so you can have more touring time!
Lines for special characters (i.e. Seven Dwarfs, Jack Sparrow) can get pretty long, so it’s good to get in line as early as possible.
Cast Members are supposedly more generous with giving candy later in the evening.
Watch the second Boo To You parade. The first parade can get pretty crowded, but you have a good chance of scoring some pretty good views (without a long wait time) for the second parade.

Is it worth it?

I was a little hesitant when we purchased our tickets for our first Halloween party, because I wasn’t sure how much we would enjoy it. We are not big Halloween people! But after having been, I would definitely say that it is absolutely worth it! Magic Kingdom feels completely different during the party – from the special costumes that the characters wear, to the special dance parties, parades and fireworks. Not to mention, it is truly special to go trick-or-treating while having that magnificent castle in the background. If you have not experienced Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party yet, I would highly recommend it!

Hi there, I’m Myra and I’m a huge Disney nerd and addict! I’m also an Independent Travel Agent at World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co. and Disney Addicts. I’m happy to help you plan your next vacation, including helping you incorporate magical experiences like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party into your trip, at no cost to you! Visit my page or send me an email at myra@worldofmagictravel.com to get started!

Is Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Worth It? 1

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