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  • On May 31, 2026
    Elsa from Coahuila Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    What’s the best strategy for MNSSHP — rides first, parade vs fireworks timing, character meets?

    Greetings, Elsa! Welcome back to planDisney! It looks like you find our group helpful with your vacation planning! That’s what we’re here for!

    Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a “spell-tacular” event to visit! I’m happy to offer some planning tips!

    My first tip is to take advantage of the early entry perk for party ticketholders. The event doesn’t begin until 7:00, but you can enter the park as early as 4:00. Go for it! Use that extra time to experience attractions or to grab dinner. There are plenty of quick-service options for dinner, but Columbia Harbor House in Liberty Square is my favorite! There are excellent menu selections for kids (chicken fingers) and adults (lobster roll), all at good prices!

    Next, Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade will take place twice during the party. If you are traveling with little ones. You should probably attend the first showing of the parade, as the second showing isn’t until much later in the night. However, if you’re without little ghosts and goblins, then go to the second parade when it is less crowded. Continue to experience attractions during the first showing of the parade when many people are along the parade route and not in line for attractions.

    Speaking of the parade, be sure to get to the parade route early. The Headless Horseman makes his haunted ride along the parade route just before the official start of the parade. This is not to be missed! My Halloween is just not the same without seeing the Headless Horseman and his faithful steed!

    The Halloween fireworks show is my favorite of the year at Magic Kingdom. I usually try to watch them while waiting in line for an attraction or character meet-and-greet with decent sightlines to the fireworks rather than simply stopping to watch the show. This usually means watching from an area either behind or on the sides of the castle. You won’t see the projections on the front of the castle, but you’ll still see the fireworks.

    Elsa, I hope these tips are helpful as you plan your visit to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party later this summer!

    Dreams do come true!

    Jonathan

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Meet the Panelist: Jonathan, Pennsylvania

Hi, everyone!  My name is Jonathan.  I am a Disney-adoring husband, dad of three sons, and elementary school principal from Pennsylvania.  If you're visiting planDisney with questions about the Most Magical Place on Earth, then Hakuna Matata because you've come to the right group of people!  I'm happy to use my past Disney-travel experiences and knowledge to help you enjoy every moment of your vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort! Learn More About Jonathan

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