Planning a trip to Disney around Halloween? You might want to consider Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. This seasonal event promises an evening of family-friendly frights, festive entertainment, and plenty of sweet treats. As someone who’s reviewed many Disney special events, I can tell you this one offers a unique twist on the usual park experience, especially if you enjoy themed parades and fireworks.
What we like about this event is its special Halloween-themed shows and exclusive character meet-and-greets. The parade, featuring characters dressed in costumes and the floating Headless Horseman, delivers a fun, spooky atmosphere without crossing into scarier territory. Another highlight is the fireworks display—a dazzling, castle-lit spectacle that captures Disney’s magic in the night sky. However, the ticket price of around $190 per person does make it a bit of a splurge, so it’s worth weighing the value against your Disney budget and what kind of experience you’re after.
A key consideration is the weather, as some reviews mention rain leading to cancellations of shows and parades, which can dampen the experience. This makes planning for October weather crucial. This event is best suited for families with kids who enjoy dressing up and trick-or-treating, as well as Disney fans eager for exclusive nighttime entertainment. If you’re looking for a lively, festive event with fewer crowds and Halloween fun, this might just be your ticket.
Key Points
- Limited Capacity: Tickets are sold for select nights between August 15 and October 30, 2025, and tend to sell out quickly.
- Exclusive Nighttime Access: Enjoy shorter wait times for rides and special Halloween-themed entertainment after hours.
- Multiple Attractions: From parades and fireworks to character meet-and-greets and trick-or-treat stations, there’s plenty to see and do.
- Family Friendly: The event is designed to be fun and festive for all ages, with a safe, non-scary approach to Halloween fun.
- Weather Considerations: Rain can cause cancellations of shows and parades, so plan accordingly.
- Value for the Price: At around $190, the ticket includes admission and all the exclusive entertainment, but food, drinks, and parking are extra.
- Authentic Disney Atmosphere: The event transforms the park with special lighting, decor, and themed entertainment that you won’t see during regular park hours.
- Authentic Halloween Experience: Trick-or-treating along Main Street, combined with unique stage shows and parade, makes this a memorable seasonal outing.
In-Depth Review of the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Orlando.
The Itinerary Breakdown
The evening begins at 7:00 pm, giving you several hours of after-hours magic. Your ticket grants access to Magic Kingdom after hours, but the main event is at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which lasts around five hours.
Stop 1: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Once inside, you’ll notice the park’s transformation—dimmed lighting, spooky castle projections, and Halloween decor that add just enough eerie charm without crossing the line into scary. The highlight for many is the Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, where floats and characters dressed in costumes march and dance to lively music. Reviewers mention the parade as “awesome” and “super fun,” especially noting the dancers dressed as grave diggers.
The Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular takes center stage on the castle stage, offering a humorous and slightly spooky show featuring the Sanderson Sisters. Reviewers rave about how brilliant the show is, with one calling it “the best nighttime spectacle Disney has done.” It’s family-friendly, filled with humor and magic, making it suitable for kids and adults alike.
As night falls, the fireworks display begins, lighting up the night sky in a spectacular display of colors, castle projections, and pyrotechnics. One reviewer described it as “not to be missed,” highlighting how it’s “amazing” and a true highlight of the evening. From the glowing castle to the vibrant bursts overhead, this display elevates the event into a truly magical moment.
Photo Ops and Trick-or-Treating
Special Halloween-themed photo stations pop up around the park, providing fun backdrops for costume pics. Kids and adults can enjoy trick-or-treating along Main Street, with stations offering plentiful treats. The reviews mention that the trick-or-treating is plentiful and fun, with many guests noting the variety of candies and treats available.
Additional Characters and Entertainment
Throughout the evening, you’ll find characters dressed in costumes for meet-and-greets—an opportunity for memorable photos and autographs. Some reviewers note the shorter wait times compared to daytime Disney visits, making it easier to see your favorite characters.
The Experience Beyond the Attractions
While the core attractions are Disney’s hallmark rides, during this event, many rides have significantly shorter wait times, often making it easier to enjoy multiple attractions in one evening. This is a real bonus for those who want a more relaxed experience, especially considering the event’s ticket price.
The overall atmosphere is lively, with guests in costumes and happy chatter filling the air. Fans of Disney and Halloween will appreciate how the park transforms into a festive, spooky playground without being frightening.
Weather and Crowd Dynamics
One downside noted in reviews is how rain can impact the experience. A rainy night can mean cancellations of the parade, shows, and fireworks, which are the main highlights. Expect some disappointment if the weather turns bad, so check the forecast and consider bringing rain gear.
Crowds can be moderate to busy, but the event’s after-hours timing and limited capacity tend to reduce the long lines typical of daytime Disney visits. Still, expect a lively, bustling environment, especially during popular moments like the fireworks and parade.
The Cost and What You Get
At $190.64 per person, the ticket price is at the higher end for Disney events. It covers admission and exclusive entertainment—parade, fireworks, stage shows, trick-or-treating, and character meet-and-greets. However, food, beverages, and parking are not included, meaning additional expenses if you want snacks or a meal during the event.
From a value perspective, the ticket could be worthwhile for Disney fans or families looking for a special seasonal experience. The reduced wait times and exclusive entertainment make it feel like a unique, limited-time opportunity to enjoy the park without the usual daytime crowds.
Real Visitor Insights
Based on reviews, many guests find the fireworks and castle projections to be the event’s crowning moments. One guest said, “The fireworks are not to be missed,” and another called the lighting and fireworks display “amazing.” Conversely, some experienced cancellations due to weather, which dampened their overall enjoyment.
The trick-or-treating is described as “fun and plentiful,” making it a hit with kids. The parade, especially, is highlighted as a fun highlight, with one reviewer stating it was the “highlight of the night.” The character meet-and-greets are a bonus, especially if you’re hoping to see Disney characters in costume.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This event is ideal for families with young children who enjoy Halloween and Disney magic. It’s also perfect for Disney fans seeking a special, after-hours experience with fewer crowds and unique entertainment. If you love parades, fireworks, and character encounters, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
However, if you’re traveling during rainy season or are sensitive to weather disruptions, it’s worth considering the potential for cancellations. Also, those on a tight budget or looking for a full Disney park day might find the extra cost hard to justify, especially since food and parking are not included.
Final Thoughts
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers a lively, family-friendly celebration that transforms Magic Kingdom into a festive Halloween playground. With its parades, fireworks, character meet-and-greets, and trick-or-treat stations, it captures the spirit of Halloween in a way that’s accessible and fun for all ages. While it is a pricier ticket, the exclusive nighttime entertainment and shorter ride waits offer value that many Disney enthusiasts will appreciate.
If you’re after a magical night full of costumes, fun surprises, and spooky but not scary entertainment, this event delivers. Just keep an eye on the weather forecast to maximize your experience, and plan ahead to secure tickets before they sell out.
FAQ
Is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party suitable for young children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly with non-scary, festive entertainment, trick-or-treating, and character meet-and-greets suitable for kids.
What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants access to the event, including the parade, fireworks, special shows, character encounters, and trick-or-treat stations. Food, beverages, parking, and souvenirs are extra.
Can I see the parade and fireworks if it rains?
Rain can lead to cancellations of the parade, shows, and fireworks, so check the weather forecast and be prepared.
How long does the event last?
The event runs approximately five hours, starting at 7:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the special entertainment and park attractions.
Are there shorter wait times on ride lines?
Yes, after hours, many rides have significantly reduced wait times, making it easier to enjoy your favorite attractions.
Is the event worth the cost?
That depends on your Disney budget and interest in Halloween festivities. Many find the exclusive entertainment and ambiance worth the price, especially if you love fireworks and parades.
What about crowds?
Crowds are generally manageable due to the event’s limited capacity and after-hours timing, but expect a lively, busy atmosphere.
Are there character meet-and-greets?
Yes, you’ll find Disney characters dressed in costumes available for photos and autographs throughout the park.
Can I buy tickets last minute?
Tickets are limited and tend to sell out quickly; it’s best to purchase in advance to secure your spot.
In the end, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers a fun, festive way to enjoy Disney during the Halloween season, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed, evening experience filled with magic and treats.
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