Hey, Jennifer! Welcome to planDisney.
I'm so glad you stopped by with your question.
On days when
Mickey's Verry Merry Christmas Party is scheduled, Magic Kingdom Park closes to regular Guests at 6:00 PM. Therefore, unless you have a ticket for the special event, you'll have to make your way to the exit at that time. If you do not have an event ticket and wish to dine at
Magic Kingdom Park that day, you must book your dining reservation before 6:00 PM. Even if you show up at the restaurant extra early, I've been informed by Cast Members that you wouldn't be able to check in to the restaurant without a ticket for the event. If you can find a time slot before the end of regular park hours, you will still be able to dine and will be escorted out of the park after your dinner. I encourage you to keep checking and see if any earlier times open up.
If you prefer to dine after 6:00 PM, you can always make a dining reservation at a restaurant outside of Magic Kingdom Park, Jennifer. There are some wonderful restaurants at
Disney's Contemporary Resort, such as California Grill or Steakhouse 71, or
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, like 'Ohana or Kona Café. You could also take a water taxi to
Disney's Wilderness Lodge and eat at Geyser Point Bar & Grill or Whispering Canyon Café. And, of course, you can always eat at one of the many great restaurants at
Disney Springs.
I hope that's helpful, Jennifer! Thanks for stopping by planDisney.
Mike