Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is the must-do event for anyone visiting Walt Disney World in September, October, and early November. This special ticketed event transforms Magic Kingdom into a Halloween wonderland, offering a unique mix of spooky fun and Disney magic. While there’s a cauldron full of treats and entertainment to enjoy, one spellbinding highlight you absolutely can’t miss is the Hocus Pocus Halloween Dance Party.
But MNSSHP is more than just a dance party. It’s a night of enchanting experiences, from shorter wait times for beloved rides to a spectacular parade, breathtaking fireworks, trick-or-treating galore, and yes, that captivating Hocus Pocus Halloween Dance Party. Having experienced the party in mid-September 2019, let me share the inside scoop on what makes this event so special, focusing on how you can maximize your fun and find your groove at the dance party!
(For all the logistical details, like dates and ticket prices, check out this handy guide.)
What Makes the 2019 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Spooktacular?
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Ambiance
The 2019 MNSSHP built upon the successful formula of previous years, maintaining the core elements that fans love. One notable tweak was shifting the first parade to a later time, which helped to slightly ease crowd congestion in the central hub area earlier in the evening. While the pathways still buzz with excited guests, the ride wait times remain delightfully low, making it easier to experience more attractions.
The biggest buzz in 2019 was around the brand-new fireworks and projection show, “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular,” which replaced the cherished “Hallowishes.” The new show offered impressive projections and visuals, but opinions were divided, with some missing the grand finale of “Hallowishes.” To fully appreciate the projections, staking out a spot in the hub is essential, which, of course, means sharing that space with many other eager viewers.
Disney also added some extra magic to select rides for the party. Pirates of the Caribbean received enhancements in 2019, making it even more immersive than the previous year. I won’t spoil the surprises – you’ll have to experience it for yourself!
Pirates of the Caribbean at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
The Mad Tea Party got a Halloween makeover with a new soundtrack, eerie lighting, and spooky smoke effects. While these changes boosted its popularity with many, it wasn’t a personal favorite for everyone.
Pirates of the Caribbean featured live characters adding to the pirate adventures.
Space Mountain in Near Darkness for Halloween Party
Space Mountain took on a dramatically different atmosphere with a near-total blackout experience. Even with a prior refurbishment that darkened the ride, this Halloween version plunged riders into almost complete darkness. With lighting effects switched off, familiar elements disappeared into the black, leaving only faint red lights and distant exit signs visible. The result? A much more thrilling and, yes, scarier ride, evidenced by the louder screams of excitement echoing through the attraction. (Note: This description of Space Mountain is based on the 2018 experience, as I didn’t ride it in 2019).
Some might suggest these ride enhancements were designed to分散 crowds. However, adding a few minutes to the wait times of three rides isn’t enough to significantly reduce the overall crowd levels, particularly in the hub area.
The optimal strategy for enjoying MNSSHP remains consistent: prioritize rides early in the evening, postpone trick-or-treating until later, enjoy the fireworks, and opt for the second parade showing. This approach helps minimize your time in crowded areas (except for the hub and parade route) and ensures a more enjoyable night.
However, with crowds lingering after the first parade, getting a prime spot in the hub for fireworks viewing can be challenging. I recommend heading to the hub right after the first parade passes, around 10 PM, to secure a good viewing location.
Fireworks Projection on Cinderella Castle
So, the plan is: rides first, then stake out a spot for the fireworks around 10 PM, followed by character meet-and-greets and trick-or-treating, the second parade at 11:15 PM, and finally, the midnight Hocus Pocus Halloween Dance Party (or show – more on that below!). It’s a late but incredibly fun night.
Dress to Impress (or Spook!) – Costumes at MNSSHP
Costumes are definitely encouraged at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, adding to the festive atmosphere, though they aren’t mandatory. Despite increased security measures implemented in December 2015, costumes are still permitted for party guests.
Refer to the official Disney costume guidelines (click to expand). It’s important to note that these rules are specific to the Halloween Party. Regular park attendance has different dress code rules, generally prohibiting costumes for guests 14 and older.
Guests in Costume at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Princess and pirate costumes remain the most popular choices, followed by Star Wars themes.
And as this group in Tomorrowland demonstrates, you don’t have to stick to Disney themes to join the costumed fun!
Parade, Fireworks, Dance Parties, Hocus Pocus – The Heart of the Halloween Party
Beyond the shorter ride lines, MNSSHP boasts a special lineup of Halloween-themed entertainment (see the map above – click to enlarge).
Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade
The “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade” is exclusive to MNSSHP.
It starts with a fun surprise – watch for the cast members roping off crosswalks (though damp streets might affect this).
Then, a procession of beloved characters makes their way down the parade route.
Disney Characters in Halloween Parade
Followed by ducks and mice…
…then swashbuckling pirates…
…a friendly pirate…
…and more pirates!
Mickey Mouse Waving in Halloween Parade
…but then the parade shifts to my favorite part: Haunted Mansion-themed dancing gravediggers and ghostly ghouls!
More spooky specters!
Ghostly Figures in Halloween Parade
The gravedigger’s signature shovel dance is a highlight.
More eerie elegance from the Haunted Mansion segment.
Soon after, candy floats appear…
…and in 2019, Pixar characters joined the parade fun!
…and the parade concludes with a thrillingly sinister finale featuring Disney Villains!
The parade runs twice nightly, at 9:15 PM and 11:15 PM, with the “Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular” fireworks and projection show lighting up the sky in between at 10:15 PM.
For the best fireworks experience, find a viewing spot in the hub, ideally about halfway in.
Below are some photos capturing the fireworks magic, highlighting the stunning castle projections.
Beyond the shows, MNSSHP offers engaging dance parties.
Monsters Inc. Dance Party at MNSSHP
While the Liberty Square dance party is no longer around, you can still find a Monster’s Inc.-themed outdoor dance party in Tomorrowland, near Astro-Orbiter and Space Mountain.
New for 2019, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe hosted a Disney Descendants-themed dance party, which had noticeably more energy than previous parties in that location.
For younger guests, there’s a Disney Junior dance party in Storybook Circus…
Disney Junior Dance Party at MNSSHP
…though it appeared less crowded, at least during my visit.
You’ll also discover a wide array of Halloween-themed merchandise. Some items are exclusive to the party (check your event guide for locations, as they may sell out), while other Halloween merchandise is generally available, even in the somewhat unexpected Christmas shop.
Though, to be fair, it seemed Santa himself might have been enjoying a Halloween break at the party… I spotted him in the Caribbean Beach bus line!
And now, for the spellbinding highlight you’ve been waiting for: the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. This show is incredibly popular. The Sanderson Sisters from the beloved movie return to the Magic Kingdom stage…
Sanderson Sisters Hocus Pocus Show
…and summon a host of Disney villains to help them cast their wicked spells and extend their stay.
The show is a high-energy spectacle filled with catchy songs, impressive dances, beloved characters, and captivating special effects. If you’re familiar with the movie, getting right up front isn’t essential to enjoy it, but seeing the Sanderson Sisters up close enhances the experience, especially for those less familiar with the film. The midnight show often offers a better chance of getting closer to the stage compared to the earlier performances.
Villains in Hocus Pocus Spelltacular
Character meet-and-greets are scattered throughout the park, featuring both familiar and rare characters.
Some more character encounters:
Rare Characters at Halloween Party
And of course, there are numerous trick-or-treat locations, easily identified by their illuminated columns.
Trick-or-Treat Station at MNSSHP
Pick up your trick-or-treat bag at the start of Main Street, U.S.A., near Town Square…
…and grab your first candy haul right away!
However, both character meet-and-greets and trick-or-treating can present a bit of a strategic dilemma.
Strategy and Rides – Making the Most of Your Party Time
Wait Times at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Almost all major and many minor rides are open during MNSSHP, and most boast significantly shorter wait times – often just 10 minutes for Space Mountain. Peter Pan’s Flight and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train are typically the exceptions, with longer waits.
On the other hand, trick-or-treat stations and especially character greetings tend to have longer lines, and the central hub area remains crowded for much of the evening.
Crowds at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Therefore, the most effective strategy is to prioritize rides and delay character greetings and trick-or-treating until after the fireworks. Spend the early part of the evening enjoying the attractions.
About 30 minutes before the 10:15 PM fireworks show, head to the hub to secure your viewing spot.
After the fireworks, dive into trick-or-treating and character meet-and-greets. Then, catch the second parade (11:15 PM) and the midnight Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular.
For first-time visitors, especially families who may not return soon, the cost of MNSSHP is a significant consideration.
It’s an expensive event, easily exceeding $300 or even $400 for a family of four, for just a five-hour party (officially 7 PM to midnight, though Disney often allows entry from 4 PM).
Yet, the fireworks show is truly spectacular (even if opinions vary on whether it surpasses previous shows), the parade is a delightful Halloween treat, ride lines are short, and the atmosphere, especially with everyone in costume, is incredibly fun!
Magic Kingdom Halloween Party Atmosphere
My overall recommendation is that for first-timers, this expense might be better allocated elsewhere within their Disney vacation budget. However, it’s a very close call, and I wholeheartedly recommend MNSSHP to returning Disney World visitors!
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