Lori,
Thanks for asking your question to planDisney!
You are going to have such a fantastic time. Or should I say
'phantasm-ic' time?
The tickets you have purchased for
Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party get you access to the
Magic Kingdom Park starting at 4:00 pm. If you wanted to go in to the park beforehand you would have to have a separate valid theme park admission, as well as a
theme park reservation. I know that may not be the answer you were hoping for, but better to know ahead of time so you can plan accordingly.
I have friends who will use going to the Halloween Party as a reason to essentially park hop, by visiting another park earlier in the day. It is not a bad plan, though I love the Magic Kingdom so much that I prefer just to stick to the park all day long. Because I know I will be returning for the party later in the evening, when the crowd level should be a bit lower and ride waits should be shorter, I take advantage during the day to soak in more of the park atmosphere.
I also typically avoid sit-down lunches, but on days like that it makes for a great opportunity to try out some of the restaurants that I have not been to in a while.
Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen is a perfect example of an often-overlooked option.
Write us back if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!Doug