Disney Gives Unfortunate Update That Has Families Skipping Mickey’s Halloween Party

Every year, Magic Kingdom goes all-out for Halloween. The cobwebs come out (the fake kind), the pumpkins start popping up in every corner, and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party usually becomes one of the most popular tickets in town. But in 2025? Families aren’t exactly rushing to get their hands on those wristbands.

It’s not because the party’s gotten worse. Actually, it might be one of the most packed lineups Disney has ever pulled together. So why are so many folks choosing to pass? It’s got everything to do with the price.

The Party Is Still Packed With Fun

Let’s get one thing straight—the entertainment hasn’t slipped. In fact, Disney’s turning the volume up even more this year.

You’ve got the Boo-to-You parade making its return (a fan favorite), plus the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, spooky overlays on some classic attractions, and Jack Skellington back to host the big fireworks show. New additions include Halloween costumes for Mickey and Minnie, fresh designs for Jack and Sally, and even a new dance party inspired by Disney Channel’s Zombies movies.

There’s also trick-or-treating all around the park, the Cadaver Dans harmonizing on Main Street, and yes—candy. Lots of it.

Plenty of Dates to Choose From

This year’s party kicks off on August 15 and runs through Halloween night, though only on select evenings. Halloween itself sold out quickly (as expected), but surprisingly, a lot of dates haven’t. That’s not normal.

Here’s when it’s happening:

• August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29

• September: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30

• October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

The Real Scare? The Price Tag.

Here’s where things get sticky. Ticket prices are creeping higher, and in 2025, they’ve hit a new ceiling.

Standard dates start at $199 per person, and more popular nights jump up to $229. That’s a steep hike for what’s essentially a nighttime add-on event. For a family of four? You’re looking at $900+, and that’s without factoring in snacks, souvenirs, or transportation.

Sure, guests can enter Magic Kingdom starting at 4 p.m., even though the party doesn’t technically start until 7. But if you’ve got little ones who crash early, you might not get the full value out of the experience. And with no daytime park access included, it’s starting to feel like a hard sell.

Is It Still Worth It?

For die-hard Halloween fans or families who’ve never been, there’s definitely a wow factor. The shows, the energy, the ambiance—it’s all pure Disney magic.

But if you’re traveling on a budget or have already been to the party in years past, it might not feel like a “must-do” anymore. Skipping the party could free up enough money to do something else magical during your trip—like a character breakfast, another full park day, or maybe even a special souvenir that lasts longer than a fun-size Snickers bar.

Disney still brings the Halloween spirit to the parks without the party, too. From decorations to themed treats available all day, you can still soak up plenty of spooky fun without shelling out for the after-hours ticket.

So, while Mickey’s party is still going strong, don’t be surprised if more and more families sit this one out.