Hi, Rebekah!
October truly is a great time to visit, and I actually love going during
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. The fall décor, seasonal treats, and limited-time Haunted Mansion Holiday attraction all make for a festive vacation! Most of the Halloween-themed touches are very family-friendly and fun rather than scary.
On evenings when Mickey’s Halloween Party is offered at Disneyland Park (as it is on Monday, Wednesday and Friday the week of your visit) it closes earlier than usual for Guests who have not purchased an event ticket. If you don’t plan to attend the party, you’re free to spend the earlier part of the day exploring the park before heading to Disney California Adventure Park or the Downtown Disney District for the rest of the evening. Be sure to make time to enjoy the not-so-spooky activities and crafts for kids at the Halloween Carnival at Big Thunder Ranch in Frontierland. We especially like meeting favorite Disney characters in their Halloween costumes!
There are many other extras available during Mickey’s Halloween Party, like the Halloween Screams fireworks spectacular, free treat stations, music, dancing, and special character meet and greets. Plus, everyone in the family can wear a costume during the party—even the adults! If you wish to stay for this event, tickets can be purchased online. The Halloween Screams fireworks are only offered on party nights and the regular offerings are available otherwise. You will be able to see some of the show from outside the park, but to view everything and catch all the special effects, you’d need to have purchased a party ticket since the best views are from Main Street, U.S.A.
I hope this helps, Rebekah. Please ask us more questions as you put the finishing touches on your fall vacation.
Wishing you magic,
Courtney