It’s no secret that I love Disney hard-ticketed events. Yes, they cost extra money on top of your already expensive park tickets, but what they offer in exchange is incredibly high in our opinion. If you go on a night that’s not as crowded (normally a party date in September, on a weeknight), then the park is SIGNIFICANTLY less crowded. Plus, with the parades, fireworks, shows, and special character meet and greets, all add to you having one of the best nights of your trip in the park. We’re breaking down what you’ll find at this years party, to help you best plan your time there.
Food
There’s special food available at every party, as well as trick or treating. We’ve never been ones to waste valuable party time trick or treating, but if gathering candy is high on your priority list, you’ll have no trouble gathering a ton. Instead of trick or treating, we like to focus on the special snacks offered – this year, there’s three that we recommend.
-Candy Corn Ice Cream
You can buy Candy Corn Ice Cream at Galactic Goodies, in either a cone or cup. It’s a mostly vanilla flavor, with just the mild flavoring of candy corn. It’s the perfect treat for a night that’s hot and sticky, like most autumn nights in Orlando.
-Jack Skellington Push Pop
The best way to describe the Jack Skellington Push Pop, is that it’s like cookies and cream cake and frosting, decorated with Jack Skellington. It’s adorable, affordable, and sold at Sleepy Hollow.
-Mickey Pumpkin Waffle Sundae
If you only get one treat at the party this year, make it this one. Guys – it’s MICKEY PUMPKIN WAFFLES, with ice cream, and a castle view. It’s absolutely delicious, taking Mickey waffles to new heights.
Tickets
This is a hard ticket event. That means that you have to purchase it separately from your annual passes, magic your way tickets, etc. I know that might seem unfair, but A LOT is offered at the party that isn’t offered during regular park hours. It’s not cheap, so one way to make it more affordable is to consider doing one less day on your park tickets, since you can get into The Magic Kingdom with your Not So Scary Ticket starting at 4 pm. Consider spending your morning at Disney Springs, The Boardwalk, or Resort Hopping.
Entertainment
Hocus Pocus Spectacular
THIS SHOW IS AMAZING. This, in my opinion, is the epitomize of what Disney entertainment should be. Funny, friendly enough for families to watch, but mature enough that adults will find it hilarious. The show is filled with good music, great pyrotechnics, and tons of villains. It’s the perfect stage show for Halloween.
Boo To You
Boo To You might be the best parade that Walt Disney World does. I slightly prefer the Christmas parade, based on my own Holiday biases, but objectively I can say that Boo To You is better. It’s an absolute must see for any Disney fan – and the only place you can see it is from a Halloween Party.
HalloWishes
HalloWishes, like Boo To You, can only be see at a Not So Scary Party. It’s a phenomenal show and shouldn’t be missed, especially since it includes 360 degree fireworks. The only thing better than a Disney fireworks show, in our opinion, is a Disney 360 degree fireworks show.
Characters
Most people’s priority when going to the Halloween Party, is meeting Jack and Sally. They have a HELLA long line – so if it’s a priority for you, come prepared to wait. They are interactive, and do spend a good amount of time talking to each person, which is a lot of fun. Our favorite meet and greet of the year, we Vampire Talking Mickey at Town Hall.
Costumes
Wearing a costume, or festively themed Halloween clothing, makes the party more fun. Most people are dressed up in some way – whether it’s elaborate costumes, simple DIY, Disney bounding, or Halloween t-shirts and Autumn ears. About 75% of people are dressed up somehow for the party, and we think it helps make the experience more fun. Our tip is this – September in Florida can be hot, humid, muggy, and rainy. Remember that when choosing a costume. If you’re thinking of dressing as a Polar Bear, with a fur coat and head piece – keep in mind the 90 degree weather.
Merch
Is there ever a time that Disney doesn’t rush to put out merchandise? Better question – is there ever a time that I don’t buy it? Special merchandise is available for the party (and for Halloween time in general). Our favorite is the Party Passholder pins.
Ambiance
One of the best parts of Not So Scary is the ambiance. The Magic Kingdom comes alive during Not So Scary, with Halloween music, projections on the castle, lights dancing on the buildings of Main Street, eerie smoke, wolf howls, and the clock of Guest Relations running orange. It’s Disney Magic at its best – and something that I think everyone should experience.
We love this party, and know it will be a tradition of ours for years to come – it’s a fun time no matter how old you are.