Memories to Last a Lifetime: Why Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a Must-Do for Families
The crisp autumn air whispers of change, and with it comes one of my favorite Walt Disney World Resort traditions – Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Typically starting in August and running through the end of October, this enchanting special ticketed evening event at Magic Kingdom transforms the park into a haven for all things Halloween, giving guests a unique experience unlike any other day at the park.
Imagine a night where families can dress up in their favorite costumes, trick-or-treat for sweet surprises, and encounter Disney characters in their spooktacular Halloween attire. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party isn't just about the candy – it's about creating lasting memories filled with laughter, mildly spooky thrills, and – of course – a touch of Disney magic. Keep reading and I’ll walk you through all the wickedly wonderful features of this party that make it a can’t miss ticket for families of all ages.
Costumes and Trick-or-Treating
Unleash your inner ghoul or Disney princess with character costumes! The party encourages families to dress up for the occasion, adding another layer of fun and excitement. This is the only time when Disney Parks allow adults to dress in costume – and people take full advantage! Little ghosts and goblins can embark on a thrilling trick-or-treating adventure, collecting sweet treats from special candy stations scattered throughout the park. Also worth mentioning – Disney offers allergy friendly alternatives to the candy passed out at the stations.
Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade: Witness a spellbinding spectacle as the iconic Boo-to-You Halloween Parade takes center stage. I’m just going to say it – this parade is the best of all parades put on throughout all Disney Parks. It begins with eerie music and a thundering “clip clop” as The Headless Horseman makes his way through Liberty Square and down Main Street. Then the dazzling nighttime procession begins, featuring your favorite Disney characters in their spooktacular Halloween attire, dancing and interacting with the crowd. Pay close attention to the Grave Diggers, as they scrape and slam their metal shovels in perfectly choreographed unison into the cobblestone streets – sparks literally fly. Prepare to be mesmerized by haunting music, dazzling floats, and infectious Disney magic!
Exclusive Merchandise, Treats, and Magic Shots
The party offers a bewitching selection of limited-edition Halloween merchandise, from costumes and souvenirs to ceramic mugs and housewares. The goods are tucked away until the party begins, so you need to be a ticketed event guest to snag these special items. Throughout the park, spooky treats and themed snacks are offered at different eateries. Each year the tastemakers at Disney come up new items that are equal parts fun to eat and ghoulishly good. Last year, my favorite treat was Zombie Fingers at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café – Almond Cookie Fingers, Key Lime Pie White Chocolate Ganache, Salted Caramel Crisp Pearls, and Sugar Eyes. Simply to die for.
And then you have Disney's Magic Shots – digital special effects that PhotoPass photographers around the park can add to your photos. For the party, guests have access to special Halloween themed effects and characters. Halloween themed balloons, a spooky overlay with bats and the moon, a poison apple, and a witch’s cauldron are a few of the boo-tiful effects that make your photos a fun and unique souvenir. The best part? Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party boasts over a dozen different Magic Shot locations, making it easy to hop in line, grab your photo op, and get back to the party!
Unique Character Meet and Greets
This is your chance to encounter your favorite Disney characters in their Halloween best! Meet and greet Disney villains, iconic heroes dressed up for the season (Mickey changes into a special outfit for the party, of course), and even some rare and surprising characters you won’t find during regular park hours. The eerily adorable Jack and Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas can usually be found at Town Square Theatre on Main Street and the Seven Dwarfs are stationed in Storybook Circus at the back of Fantasyland. These super popular characters are only available to meet at a few of Magic Kingdom’s special events, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party being one of them.
Special Ride Overlays
Some popular rides receive a Halloween twist during the party, offering unique overlays and special effects that add a touch of Halloween magic and spooky surprises to the experience. If you or your family love thrill rides, try Space Mountain with a Halloween twist – in complete darkness with spooky music blaring. Something a little more tame but equally as festive, the Mad Tea Party gets a hauntingly whimsical makeover with special lighting and music as you spin and whirl. Honorable mention goes to The Haunted Mansion – no overlay needed but this classic attraction adds to the fun with special guests appearing in the graveyard to keep you entertained while you wait to meet the happy haunts inside.
This party takes place on select nights during the fall season starting in August. Remember, tickets for this special event are separate from regular park admission, so planning ahead to secure your spooky fun is key. Let us know the dates you have in mind – we can secure your tickets, share our tips and tricks for the party, and keep you up to date on the latest information to maximize your event experience.
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the most special events at Walt Disney World. Your crew will delight in the not-so-spooky, family-friendly atmosphere created by Mickey and friends. This enchanting celebration offers a unique blend of Halloween magic, beloved Disney characters, thrilling entertainment – and enough candy to last all year (we are still working through ours!). So, grab your costumes, gather your coven, and prepare for a spooktacular night at Walt Disney World!
