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Is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Worth It? 5 Reasons You Should Go

  • Writer: Amanda Rudham
    Amanda Rudham
  • Jun 28, 2023
  • 5 min read

Updated: Mar 18

Glowing pumpkin with mouse ears on a lamp post, surrounded by autumn leaves. Bright castle in the background, creating a festive mood.

If you’re planning a Halloween trip to Walt Disney World Resort, chances are you’ve come across Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party — but is it really worth the extra cost?


This special ticketed event takes place on select nights at Magic Kingdom and offers a completely different experience compared to a regular park day. With exclusive entertainment, shorter ride wait times and plenty of Halloween fun, it’s one of Disney’s most popular seasonal events.


But because it requires an additional ticket, many visitors wonder whether it’s worth including in their holiday.


Having experienced it ourselves, we can honestly say it’s one of the most fun and unique events at Walt Disney World, and in this guide, we’ll explain exactly why.


At Fairytale Holidays, we're able to add your Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party tickets to your package. Just tell us you're interested in attending when you request your Walt Disney World quote.


What Is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (often shortened to MNSSHP) is a separately ticketed event held on select evenings during the Halloween season.


The event typically runs from 7pm to midnight, but guests with a party ticket can usually enter the park from around 4pm, giving you extra time to enjoy attractions before the event officially begins.


During the party, Magic Kingdom transforms into a Halloween-themed experience with:


  • Special shows and entertainment

  • Trick-or-treat trails around the park

  • Rare Disney characters

  • Halloween-themed food and merchandise

  • Lower crowd levels compared to daytime

It’s designed to be family-friendly rather than scary, making it suitable for all ages.


1. Exclusive Halloween Entertainment You Won’t See Anywhere Else

One of the biggest reasons to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the exclusive entertainment.


These shows and parades are only available during the event and are a huge part of what makes it so special.


Highlights typically include:

  • The Boo-To-You Halloween Parade

  • The Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show

  • Special Halloween fireworks


The Boo-To-You Parade in particular is a fan favourite, featuring unique floats, rare characters and a fun Halloween atmosphere you won’t find during regular park hours.


Because these experiences are exclusive to the party, attending gives you access to entertainment that many standard park guests never see.



2. Trick-or-Treating Across Magic Kingdom

Yes — even adults can go trick-or-treating at Disney!


Throughout Magic Kingdom, you’ll find designated treat stations where guests are given handfuls of sweets (included in your ticket).


You’re given a treat bag when you enter, and you can visit as many locations as you like during the night.


This is especially fun for families, but it’s also surprisingly popular with adults, and the amount of candy you can collect is impressive!


There are also allergy-friendly options available, making the experience accessible for everyone.


3. Shorter Ride Wait Times

One of the most practical reasons to attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the reduced crowd levels.


Because it’s a separately ticketed event with limited capacity, the park is usually much quieter than during the day.


This means:

  • Shorter queues for popular rides

  • More attractions in less time

  • A more relaxed overall experience


Many guests use the party as an opportunity to enjoy rides with minimal wait times, especially later in the evening.


While not every ride is a walk-on, wait times are generally much lower than during regular park hours. This can make a big difference if you’re trying to maximise your time.

4. Rare Characters and Costumes

If meeting Disney characters is high on your list, this is one of the best events to attend.


During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, you’ll find:


  • Rarely seen characters

  • Disney villains

  • Characters in special Halloween costumes


You may even have the chance to meet characters who don’t usually appear in the parks at all.


Another fun aspect of the event is that guests are allowed to wear costumes (within Disney guidelines, see below). This adds to the atmosphere and makes the whole evening feel even more immersive. Remember to keep in mind the weather in Orlando when planning your outfit!


At Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, costumes must be family-friendly, not obstructive, offensive, or violent; they should not contain any props resembling real weapons, sharp objects, or anything that could accidentally hit another guest; masks are generally not allowed, and costumes should not drag on the ground; capes can be worn but should not go below the waist; and guests may dress as their favorite characters but cannot pose for photos with other guests as that character

Whether you go all out with a full costume or keep it simple with a themed outfit, it’s a great way to get into the Halloween spirit.

Girl hugging the Queen of Hearts at MNSSHP

5. Exclusive Halloween Snacks and Merchandise

No Disney event is complete without special food... and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party doesn’t disappoint.


Across the park, you’ll find a range of limited-time Halloween treats, including themed desserts, snacks and drinks that are only available during the event.


These often include:

  • Seasonal cupcakes and cakes

  • Halloween-themed snacks

  • Unique drinks and speciality items


In addition, there’s also exclusive event merchandise that you won’t find at any other time of year.


For many Disney fans, trying these limited-time offerings is part of the fun and helps make the event feel even more special.



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

So, is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party worth it? For many visitors, the answer is yes, but it depends on your priorities.


It’s definitely worth it if you:

  • Love Halloween and seasonal events

  • Want to experience exclusive Disney entertainment

  • Enjoy meeting rare characters

  • Prefer lower crowd levels

  • Want a more relaxed evening in the parks


It might not be worth it if you:

  • Are on a tight budget

  • Have a short trip and want to prioritise full park days

  • Aren’t interested in shows, parades or seasonal extras


For most guests, the combination of entertainment, atmosphere and reduced crowds makes it a highlight of their trip.



Tips for Making the Most of Mickey’s Halloween Party

If you do decide to attend, here are a few quick tips to make the most of your evening:


  • Arrive early to take advantage of the 4pm entry time

  • Prioritise must-see shows and parades

  • Use the later hours for rides when queues are shortest

  • Bring a costume (within Disney guidelines)

  • Stay for the full event if possible


Planning your evening in advance can help you get the most value from your ticket.


Autumn wreath with a smiling pumpkin face and sunflower decor hangs outdoors. Vibrant orange and yellow leaves. Trees in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a separate ticket for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?

Yes — this is a separately ticketed event and is not included with standard park admission.


What time does the Halloween party start?

The event typically runs from 7pm to midnight, with entry available from around 4pm.


Is Mickey’s Halloween party suitable for adults?

Absolutely. While it’s family-friendly, many adults attend for the entertainment, food and atmosphere.


Four people in western attire sing joyfully on a wooden balcony decorated with autumn garlands, set against a dark night sky.

Final Thoughts

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the most unique events at Walt Disney World Resort.

From exclusive shows and shorter queues to trick-or-treating and rare characters, it offers a completely different way to experience Magic Kingdom.


While it does come at an additional cost, many visitors find it to be one of the highlights of their trip, especially if they love Halloween or want to experience something beyond a typical park day. If you’re visiting during the Halloween season, it’s definitely worth considering.

Lit-up pumpkins spell "See Ya Real Soon!" on a terrace at night, decorated with orange leaves, evoking a festive autumn mood.

Start Your Disney Adventure & Request a Personalised Quote from Fairytale Holidays!


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