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Warning: Christmas at Disney World May Not Fit in the Budget This Year

It’s the most wonderful (and expensive?) time of the year. As Disney fans gear up for another festive season at Walt Disney World, some families are quietly hitting pause on one major tradition: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

It hasn’t even been officially priced yet—and that’s exactly the problem.

When Holiday Magic Meets Sticker Shock

We all know Disney doesn’t do holidays halfway. From glowing garlands to the snow falling on Main Street, it’s the kind of atmosphere you’ll never forget. But that magic may come with a hefty price tag this year.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse are dressed in Halloween-themed outfits, with Minnie wearing a purple witch costume and Mickey in a green and purple suit with a top hat. They pose in front of the brightly lit castle at night, bringing the magic of the Magic Kingdom to life.
Credit: Disney

Based on what we saw with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party earlier this year, the trend is clear: prices are climbing. Halloween party tickets started at $199 and went all the way up to $229. That’s per person. So if Christmas follows suit? A family of four could be spending close to $1,000 just to attend the party—before even factoring in the rest of their vacation.

No, thank you.

Disney Hasn’t Released Prices Yet, But Families Are Already Deciding

It’s true—Disney hasn’t dropped the official numbers for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in 2025. That usually comes around late June or early July. But people are planning now, and many are already bracing themselves for another budget-breaking event.

Disney World characters dressed in festive holiday attire stand in front of the Cinderella castle.
Credit: Disney

Some families are starting to rethink things altogether. They’re asking, “Do we really need to go to the party?” And for many, the answer might be “Not this year.”

Sure, it’s magical. There are parades, characters in Christmas gear, complimentary cocoa and cookies, and limited-capacity crowds that make it feel extra special. But when you’re already dropping thousands on park tickets, hotels, meals, and souvenirs… adding another $900+ for a few hours of extra holiday cheer can be hard to justify.

The Magic Doesn’t Disappear Without a Party Ticket

Here’s a little Christmas miracle, though: the rest of Walt Disney World still turns into a festive wonderland even without a party wristband.

Fireworks in the daytime behind Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom at Disney World
Credit: Disney

From stunning holiday decorations to seasonal treats and themed merchandise, there’s no shortage of cheer throughout the parks. You can still feel the magic, take all the holiday selfies, and eat all the peppermint snacks without spending a dime on the party itself.

So even if you decide to sit this one out, you’re not missing out on the full holiday experience.

What to Expect Moving Forward

The big announcement is still a few weeks away, but if you’re determined to go to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year, be ready. Choose an earlier date (those are usually cheaper), plan to arrive at 4 p.m. when party guests are allowed in, and have a solid strategy so you’re not wasting time once the festivities kick off at 7.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, decked out in festive holiday outfits, stand on a decorated float at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2023. The scene glows with colorful lights, a towering Christmas tree, and a cheering crowd as snow gently falls around them at Magic Kingdom Park.
Credit: Disney

But for everyone else? Enjoy the lights, the sounds, and the spirit of the season. You’ll still be surrounded by magic—even if you skip the extra event.

Because while Disney may be charging more, it’s still okay to set boundaries and celebrate in a way that works for your family.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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