Why Grown-ups Love Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP) is a fun filled hard ticket event for all ages held at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Taking place on select nights during September, October, and November, party-goers are invited to enjoy a family-friendly romp through the night. Every year I'm asked if this is a good event for adults, and my answer is always a resounding "Yes!" If you love Halloween but can do without the anxiety, fear and gore " this is the party for you. We've got just a few of the reasons that Grown-ups love Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party.





While the Magic Kingdom is known for its marvelous themed environments to begin with, Halloween Party Guests are treated to an additional layer of creative sights, sounds, and smells that create a mystical mood. Even the streetmosphere entertainers get a ghostly make-over because after the sun goes down, all the happy haunts come out to play amongst the holiday theme.

Guests are invited to dress up in [appropriate] costumes and enjoy a fun night in the Park. Costumes are by no means required, but come on, get in the spirit! It's the only time of year that adults (anyone over 12) are encouraged to dress up in costume and live their Disney Dreams in the Park. Looking for some ideas on what to wear? Read our previous article here.


Mickey's Trick or Treat Party: Marty McFly, Mary Poppins Group
Mary Poppins, Sweeps and Marty McFly (c)Armadillo444



Many, many Disney fans have said to me that Mickey's "Boo-to-You" Halloween Parade is by far one of the best parades that Disney puts on. With a focus on villains, pirates, and creepy characters from a wide range of sources offers a unique overview of Disney's darker side. My favorite units? It's toss-up between the Pirates of the Caribbean Ship, and the Haunted Mansion Grave Diggers drill unit. Or maybe it's the ride of the Headless Horseman who leads the way.


Boo To You Halloween ParadeBoo To You Halloween Parade


HalloWishes is a fireworks production where Disney Villains tear up the night with wicked remixes of their theme songs highlighted by ghostly castle projections, fire in the sky. Created in 2005 by Disney's Creative Entertainment division specifically for the event, this display is full of unique and memorable holiday themed pyrotechnics that make it more than just another fireworks display.

All ages can go on an all out candy gathering spree as they Trick-or-Treat through the Magic Kingdom. I've seen stash photos posted on Twitter of MNSSHP candy that can last all year long if managed well. It's also worth noting that Disney gives out some quality brands to their guests, and previous years have included Twix, M&Ms, Starburst, Nestle' Crunch, Laffy Taffy, Snickers, Almond Joy and many, many more.


The Spoils of Trick-or-Treating, How Many Bags Can You Fill?The Spoils of Trick-or-Treating, How Many Bags Can You Fill?


Being a hard ticket event means that fewer guests are in the Park, which creates shorter lines even for fan favorite attractions. If you're not really into the special entertainment and holiday shows (which are honestly are some of the best Disney does) take advantage of fireworks and parade times to get in a few rounds on your favorite rides.

Thanks to our friends at the Disney Food Blog for use of their candy picture, did you know they wrote a Candy Lover's Guide to the Not So Scary Halloween Party? Are you a fan of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party? Leave a comment below and tell us why you love it!

Clara Christensen wrote on Fri, 08/21/2015 - 14:20:

Clara Christensen's picture

I have been going to Mickey's Not So Scary for at least 10 years. It is very much for adults! I am 68 and go in costume every year. For a few years I went in a Dopey Costume and had some great interactions with the "real" Dopey during Photo ops and the Parade! Once Snow White saw me and brought Dopey over to see me. We had some fun miming moments before they had to move on!

CourtneyAUS wrote on Fri, 08/21/2015 - 23:03:

CourtneyAUS's picture

We visited Disney world for the first time last year and attended MNSSHP on our first day. My husband and I had never really experienced Halloween before (we're from Australia) but afterwards I think we were both wanting to celebrate again. Boo to You Parade was definitely one of my favourite parades I saw and the Hallowishes was amazing too. We got onto rides that we'd queued for during the day in minimal time, especially right on the change over when the park closes to the day guests. Candy was given out freely and definitely had heaps! So nice being in the park in costume and seeing all the costumes. We will definitely make the trip again and time it for Halloween. :)

Michelle wrote on Mon, 09/07/2015 - 20:00:

Michelle's picture

We're going the week of Oct 5th with our group ranging in ages from 18-48!! This will be our 2nd time going and I absolutely love it!

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