Hi Dawn,
You have come to the right place! All of us at the Disney Parks Moms Panel are big planners too, so we completely understand your desire to know the park hours and details for
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party as soon as possible!
Park Hours are generally released about six months in advance, so I would expect to know December schedules in June. Last year, the
Disney Parks Blog announced the dates for both Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on April 6th. The announcement came out on April 8th in 2016. While we never know for sure when this year's announcement will come, I would watch the Disney Parks Blog like a hawk around the beginning of April! Last year, Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party dates were on select Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. We, of course, don't know for sure that the schedule will remain the same this year, but if you're like me and enjoy thinking through potential trip itineraries, maybe that information will be helpful.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is one of my very favorite experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort. Snow on Main Street U.S.A., complimentary snacks, low wait times for attractions, special Character greeting opportunities, a Holiday Wishes fireworks show, and my very favorite, the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade!? Yes, please!
Have fun planning, Dawn, and please let us know if you have any other questions. I hope your vacation is truly magical!
Missy