If there’s one special event at Walt Disney World that we don’t even have to think twice about attending is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom! From September through October (and sometimes even the beginning days of November), the park comes alive with vibrant, fall colors, special shows and fireworks displays, and of course, it’s the one chance that we grown-ups get to go all out and dress up as our favorite characters. Along with the fun of the party comes hacks to make the most of your time during MNSSHP and these easy tips will benefit you and your family and make the most of your visit!
Go Early
Yes, the official party begins at 7pm, but cast members begin letting party guests into the park at 4pm- a bonus three hours to get your party on. This is the time that we LOVE to walk around Magic Kingdom and check out the other costumes because the sun is beginning to set and by the time the party really gets rolling the sun sets and you really can’t see them.
Want to See Live Shows? Don’t Stand Close to the Stage
I know I’ll receive some heat for this one, but let me tell you last year’s party tale. Last year was the debut for Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular at the Castle Forecourt Stage and we, along with tens of thousands of other guests, wanted to see it. My thought? We headed to the stage hub area two hours in advance to score the perfect spot: directly in front of the stage on the other side of the “street”. We were so excited to grab this spot and hung out chatting with other guests and eating specialty treats. Five minutes before the party began, other folks with the same idea of scoring a great spot filled in the area between the stage and hub. The second the show began, up went the little kids on the shoulders of their parents and down went our view. Yes, we still had a great time listening to the music and characters but we saw very little. My tip? Stand farther back so you can still see even with the kiddos on their parents’ shoulders.
Costumes Are Not Necessary- But Sure Are Fun!
While it’s true, you don’t need a costume to enjoy the party, I truly feel that wearing one ups the fun. We are kind of obsessed with costuming at this point and love to go all out, but I’ve seen folks with Halloween t-shirts and plain clothes guests have a blast, too.
Regarding WDW’s official standpoint for adult costuming, here’s the scoop:
- Disney reserves the right to deny admission to or remove any person wearing attire that is considered inappropriate or attire that could detract from the experience of other Guests.
- All Guests may dress as their favorite character, but may not pose for pictures or sign autographs for other Guests.
- Costumes must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, objectionable or violent.
- Costumes may not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.
- Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another Guest.
- Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into, and/or removed from, unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards.
For Guests ages 13 and under:
- Costumes and some masks may be worn, as long as the mask does not cover the entire face and eyes are visible.
For Guests ages 14 and older:
- Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening.
- Costumes may not reach or drag on the ground. (e.g. full-length Princess dresses)
- Capes may be worn if the length does not go below the waist.
- Themed T-shirts, blouses, sweatshirts, and hats are acceptable.
- Acceptable accessories include: transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords, and tutus. Headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face.
- May not wear masks of any kind.
Schedule Advanced Dining Reservations for Party Nights Early
We try to grab a Counter Service Meal before the party begins (more time to revel in the party merriment!) but if you’re adamant about Table service Dining during the party, you’ll need to lock down an Advanced Dining Reservation well in advance. Heading last minute? There’s still a chance you can score one. Folks like to swap dates and times around at the minute, so check several times a day to see if there’s a cancellation. There’s a 180 day window, but to make a ressie after 7pm (the official party starting time) you’ll have to have a ticket to the party.
Queue Up Early for Popular Disney Character Meet and Greets
Here’s the scoop: the more elusive the Disney character, the longer the line. Think Seven Dwarfs and Jack and Sally form The Nightmare Before Christmas. If you hit the park before the actual party begins (characters meet and greet at 7pm promptly) and really want a pic with the popular ones, queue up an hour or so before the party begins so you can spend lees time in line during the party itself.
Save Room for Candy
There’s loads of candy to be had at the party and, while we don’t make a point to spend hours in the candy queues, we do like to go through a couple of lines. If you really want to breeze through them, wait until MNSSHP or during Hallowishes or Boo to You! Parade.
Score Tickets Early
Yes, there are dates that don’t sell out , but weekends and Halloween itself are hugely popular and sell out fast! As soon as you know you’re going, head to the MNSSHP reservation page and purchase them.
Do you have a favorite tip to making the most of the party time? Please let us know in the comment section below!
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