At Disneyland Resort, the return of the Oogie Boogie Bash signals the start of another spirited Halloween season. But while villains take center stage on select nights, the latest financial update from The Walt Disney Company highlights an equally powerful storyline: guest spending across Disney Experiences continues to grow.
In early August, under the guidance of CEO Bob Iger, Disney reported its fiscal third-quarter earnings. Disney Experiences, which includes theme parks, resorts, cruises, and consumer products, brought in $9.09 billion—an 8% rise year over year. Within that figure, domestic parks contributed $6.4 billion, up 10%. According to CNBC, the increase came from guest spending, more resort stays, and a higher number of passenger cruise days.
For Walt Disney World, this trend has eased concerns about fluctuating attendance. On the earnings call, Disney CFO Hugh Johnston assured analysts, “I know there’s a lot of concern about the consumer in the U.S. right now. We don’t see it. Our consumer is doing very, very well.”
This outlook reflects a broader strategy: encouraging frequent visits from higher-spending guests. Whether through expanded resort offerings, dynamic pricing for the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass, or ticketed seasonal events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the approach has been consistent. For families who save years to experience Disney World, it raises questions about where affordability and luxury intersect.
Not all increases appear in large ways. At Disneyland Resort, even seasonal novelties carry a noticeable jump. The light-up Zero straw clip, themed to the beloved Nightmare Before Christmas character, costs $9.75 in 2025 compared to $7.49 last year. Available at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, the clip is limited to two per guest. Because of Zero’s seasonal exclusivity, it has already attracted reseller interest—one 2024 version is listed on eBay for $30.
Meanwhile, the seasonal centerpiece at Disneyland Resort is the Oogie Boogie Bash, which returned to Disney California Adventure with more event nights than ever before. Running from August 17 through October 31, the event features the Frightfully Fun Parade, Villains Grove, treat trails, and overlays like Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Guests with party tickets can enter as early as 3 p.m. for the 6 p.m.–11 p.m. celebration.
Tickets ranged from $139 to $199, with sales opening June 24 for Inspire Key holders, June 25 for Magic Key holders, and June 26 for the general public. Along with exclusive food and drinks, limited-edition merchandise, and unlimited PhotoPass downloads, the event has become a highlight of the Halloween season at the resort.
Together, these examples—an exclusive Halloween party, a small seasonal collectible, and broader guest spending—paint a picture of Disney’s current path. As inflation shapes the choices of many households, Disney’s focus appears fixed on maximizing what each guest spends once inside the parks. For longtime fans, the magic is still present, but so is the reality of rising costs.
