Disney’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Disney World Vs Disneyland
Are you planning to go to a Disney Halloween Party? Want to compare the Oogie Boogie Bash vs. the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties?
Perfect! I am excited to share about my favorite things at Disney World and Disneyland — Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash.
In this post, we are going to cover some major differences between the Halloween party at Disney World and the Halloween party at Disneyland Resort more specifically California Adventure.
We will break this down into three categories: Best Trick or Treating, Best Ride Overlays, and Best Entertainment Options.
If you have been thinking of going to Disney World at Halloween or enjoying a Disneyland California Halloween season you are in for a treat! It is one of the best times to visit the parks. No matter which party you decide to go to (California or Florida) you will have a blast!
As we compare the two Disney Halloween Parties, what I describe for the Magic Kingdom generally applies to Disneyland. (California Adventure) I will give you tips that will help you plan your trip to the Disney Halloween party.
Let’s get started by comparing the Disneyland Halloween party to the Disney World Halloween party!
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Locations of Disney’s Halloween Parties
This year is the fifth year that the Disneyland Halloween party will be held at the Disneyland Resort exclusively at California Adventure, since 2019. The event is called the Oogie Boogie Bash.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is held at Magic Kingdom in Orlando.
There are some differences between Florida and California. One of the major differences is each Halloween party is located in different parks.
The Disneyland California Halloween party is held at California Adventure and the Disney World Halloween Party is held at the Magic Kingdom (which is similar to Disneyland Park)
Side Note for Disneyland Halloween Party
Just as a side note, we are hoping that Mickey’s Halloween Party returns to Disneyland Park someday, but California Adventure is still really fun.
One of the main reasons the Disney California Halloween Party was moved from Disneyland to California Adventure was because of the addition of Stars Wars Land to Disneyland.
Galaxy’s Edge is now open at Hollywood Studios but not in the Magic Kingdom which allows the Not So Scary Halloween Party to continue to be at Magic Kingdom.
This was a bit of a downer for us. We love seeing the castle during the Disney California Halloween Party, going on the Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain, and enjoying the spooky feel of Main Street. (Space Mountain at Disneyland is my favorite.)
Overview of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and the Oogie Boogie Bash
What Does Your Ticket Include?
Admission to the park from 3:00 pm – till close. (Both Locations)
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
We will start in Florida with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. It is one of the special events held at the Magic Kingdom.
The party dates have been extended over a longer period to help accommodate its growing popularity each year.
For 2024, the party starts in August and goes through October 31st. Tickets go on sale on May 15, 2024 or for Disney hotel guests May 8, 2024.
You can get them through GetAwayToday, if you book a package you can use my coupon code. (PlanAway10)
The Disney World Halloween party happens two, three, or four times a week, with more days of the party happening each week the closer you get to Halloween.
Oogie Boogie Bash
As for California, the Oogie Boogie Bash is held three days a week, every week. (Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday).
It runs for a shorter period, beginning a few weeks later, around the end of August. (Tickets go on sale in the summer, usually around June.)
What Kind of Ticket is Required to Go to the Not So Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash?
Both Disney World and Disneyland Halloween events are separate from general park admission.
You can get into the Magic Kingdom or California Adventure the day of the party with general admission, but the park closes early that day, usually at 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm.
If you want to be at the Magic Kingdom the entire day of the party, you will need to buy both a general admission ticket and a special event ticket.
Our Experience
We don’t go to a park before the special event (buying an extra ticket). This is usually our relax-and recover-day. We may check out some of Disney’s hotels, or Disney Springs. Or we may just hit the pool at our hotel.
You can do so much at the special event, we get our fill without having to do a park beforehand. So my advice is to save your energy for the evening festivities!
Price of Disney’s Halloween Ticket
The special event ticket costs from $119 to $199 on the high end, except for Halloween, which will cost you more.
The earlier in the season you go, the less expensive it will be, and Fridays are almost always more expensive than the other days of the week.
At Disneyland, the Oogie Boogie Bash prices run from $134 at the low end, to $189 on the high end (that’s not just Halloween, but also on five other days during the month!).
It was a mere 7 years ago that I paid $69 to go to the party at Disneyland! Wow, have times changed!
I realize that sounds expensive, but I still think the ticket price is worth it compared to general admission. More on that later.
Disney Halloween Party Wrist Band
One perplexing item for us before our first time attending the party was how Disney got general admission guests out of the park.
We found that Disney does not close the park. Instead, Disney gives party guests a wristband.
At the official start of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and the Oogie Boogie Bash, Disney employees (cast members) stand at the entrance of each land.
If you don’t have a band, you are informed of the park closure or escorted to the park exit.
Look for the special event entrance and get your wristband and candy bag!
When to Buy Tickets to Disney’s Halloween Party
Buy tickets as soon as they go on sale, if you want to go! These tickets sell out in advance.
You can not buy them the day of, especially closer to Halloween. Tickets usually go on sale in the Spring or early Summer.
Disney has increased the number of people who can purchase tickets to the party. Last year it was easier for more people to enjoy the party, but also made it more crowded!
What Time is the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party?
The party starts at 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm and typically lasts until 11:00 pm or midnight. Please note that historically Disney has let special event guests enter the Magic Kingdom three hours before the official start of the party.
At Disneyland, we’ve actually got in three and a half hours before start time. (We haven’t tried to get in early at the Magic Kingdom.)
Why is Disney’s Halloween Party so Magically Worth it? 
Maybe I should have first asked, “Is it worth it?” Absolutely! I’ll talk more about it later, but you can probably get more done at the party than with a general admission ticket, and without enduring the heat of the day!
In other words, if you want to do the normal Disney stuff, you can do it at the party or you can do all of the party stuff!
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is awesome! Low lines, candy, the parade, characters, the show, the props . . . oh, did I mention low lines?
The magical spirit of Halloween is all around. Disney does a fantastic job of decorating having special food items on the menu and making your experience amazing.
Dressing Up for the Halloween Party
Dressing up for this event is a big deal. Some families match and go all out. We have gone all out on some years, but last year it was so hot that my son was just not going to wear his costume!
It is not required to dress up but if you do there are a few restrictions that you need to pay attention to
- You can dress up as your favorite character but you may not pose with park guests
- If Disney thinks your outfit is inappropriate they can remove you from the park
- Costumes must be family-friendly
- Costumes cannot contain weapons that look like real weapons
- Costumes may not contain sharp items that could hurt another guest
Guest Under 13
- Can wear masks, but the masks can not cover the entire face
Guest Over 13
- Layered Costumes are discouraged
- Costumes that drag on the ground are not allowed
- Capes can be worn as long as they do not go below the waist
- Themed clothes are acceptable
- Acceptable accessories include transparent wings, plastic light sabers, toy swords, and tutus. Headwear may be worn as long as it does not cover the face
- No masks are allowed
If you want more detail on costume guidelines you can go directly to the Disney site. These rules apply to both Disneyland and Disney World.
1. Trick or Treating Disney Halloween Party Disney World Vs. Disneyland
Trick or treating is the best part of Halloween. At this party children and yes even adults are allowed to trick or treat.
There are candy trails located throughout the park. The park map handed out for the event will show you where they’re at.
There will be a Goofy Balloon located at the entrance to the trick or treat lines.
There is a special trick-or-treating line that opens up early. It is located as you walk into the park or exit the park, you will be directed to the right location. At this station, they give you a bag full of candy!
The quality of the candy is amazing. They have candy from the Mars Company like Butterfinger and M&M’s. They also have nonchocolate varieties like Twizzlers and Mike and Ike. They also have healthy options such as apple slices and carrots.
Trick or Treating at Disney World vs. Disneyland
In this category Disneyland Wins. Disneyland had a lot more trick-or-treating lines compared to Disney World.
They are closer together at Disneyland and easier to get from one to another. But most importantly, there are multiple stations in each line at Disneyland, whereas at Disney World most of the lines only had one station that handed out candy. Not nearly as fun!
We had purchased big bags when we went to California and we filled them up with 10 pounds of candy. (Luckily for us our kids don’t gorge on candy, and so after the candy sitting at our house for a while, we gave the rest away.)
In Florida, we didn’t even need to use the bags we brought because the amount of candy fit into the small bag provided at the front gate.
The Oogie Boogie Bash gives a ton of candy! There are 12 trick-or-treat lines! Each line has about 6-8 stops to get candy! You can go through as many times as you would like!
As you trick or treat at Disneyland there are special villain characters from Hercules, Coco, Toy Story, and more. These characters actually talk to you as you walk through and tell jokes.
2. Rides During Disney Halloween Parties
We mentioned that the lines are low during the party! This is the major perk of getting a special event ticket. The last two hours of the party we walked right onto most rides.
Even major attractions like Snow White and the Seven Drawfs (at the Magic Kingdom) will have a min 15- 20 minute wait.
This is true for both Disney World and Disneyland.
Special Changes on Rides at Disney World
Some attractions receive spooktacular overlays and enhancements! These rides include:
- Space Mountain – Goes completely dark
- Mad Tea Party – Special lighting and music
- Pirates of the Caribbean – A crew of live pirates takes over the ride
- Monster’s Laugh Floor – Learn’s about how human’s celebrate Halloween
Special Changes at California Adventure
At Disneyland, these rides have special overlays.
- Guardian of the Galaxy Mission Break Out – Super Scary
- Luigi Rollickin ridester changes to Luigi Honkin Halloween
- Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree changes to Mater’s Junkyard JamBooree
Note: Disneyland is not included in the Halloween party but typically Space Mountain and Haunted Mansion have overlays.
Disneyland Vs. Disney World
Magic Kingdom wins on ride overlays and the amount of rides available because the amount of rides available at California Adventure is limited! Magic Kingdom is a bigger park with much more to offer.
3. Parades and Special Show During the Disney Halloween Parties
Magic Kingdom Wins in entertainment options. There are four shows or entertainment options this year at Magic Kingdom. They include Fireworks, Hocus Pocus, Moonlight Melodies, and the parade.
Disney’s World – Not So Spooky Spooktacular
There will be a new firework show that will not disappoint, with lasers and projection effects. The Fab Five will go on a trick-or-treating adventure leading to a haunted house and encounter villains along the way.
Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular
Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular is a production that is held four times each night. It is on the stage in front of the castle and features music and theatrics from the villains.
If you are a diehard, you can hold out until the midnight show, and you get to experience the show when everything else is shut down (getting the most out of everything else before the show).
Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular is only at the Magic Kingdom and is not offered at the Disneyland Resort.
MoonLight Melodies
Located near Cosmic Ray Starlight Cafe is a stage where you will see lots of Disney Jr. characters. There is also a DescenDance!
Boo To You Halloween Parade
“Boo To You Halloween Parade” is a must-see. You will need to claim your spot early and get ready for a great show. The headless horseman rides out in front on his horse to start the parade. It is really cool to see.
The headless horseman also makes an appearance in California now, and will be returning this year for the “Frightfully Fun Parade.”
Cadaver Dan’s Barbershop Quartet
The Cadaver Dan’s Barbershop Quartet is located in Frontierland. It is a great musical show.
Disneyland Oogie Boogie Bash
The are a limited amount of entertainment options at the Oogie Boogie Bash.
Frightfully Fun Parade – a parade led by Mickey and Minnie. It is really impressive and fun to watch. All of the villains are in the parade.
One tip is to skip the first parade and watch the second. This way you can go to the Villans Grove during the first parade, when it is not as busy. You can also trick or treat with lower lines.
Villians Grove – The Villans Grove in California Adventure is located in the Grizzly Peak area. This isn’t a haunted forest on a scare level, but you don’t go to the party for that. With Disney effects, it is more of a walk-through with Halloween decorations.
Let's Compare the Disney Halloween Parties
| Not So Scary Halloween Party | Oogie Boogie Bash | |
|---|---|---|
| Prices | $119-$199 (Expect Halloween $199) | $134-$189 |
| Dates | August 9 – October 31 | August 25 – October 31st |
| Party Times | 7pm-12pm | 6pm-11pm |
| Average Temp. on October 1st | 86 degrees | 81 degrees |
| Average Rainfall | Between 2.5 – 3 inches | Less than an Inch |
| Shows | 1. Hocus Pocus Villian Spelltacular 2. Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular (fireworks show) 3. Cadavar Dans Barbershop Quarter | 1. No Shows |
| Trick or Treat | Yes | Yes |
| Parades | Boo-to-you-Halloween Parade | Frightfully Fun Parade |
| Attraction Overlays | 1. Space Mountain 2. Pirates of the Caribbean 3. Mad Tea Party 4. Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor | 1. Guardians of the Galaxy 2. Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters 3. Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree |
| Fireworks | Disney’s Not So Spooky Spectacular | No separate fireworks show |
| Extras | Parade Seating and Eats (2 options) 1. Dessert Party (Plaza Garden) 2. Dessert Party (Tomorrowland Terrace) | 1. Villains Grove 2. Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party |
Disney Halloween Party California or Florida?
Deciding which park to attend is a tough decision. We went to Disney World – Magic Kingdom a few years in a row because it is held at the Magic Kingdom. This year we tried the Oogie Boogie Bash.
Excitement is the best word to describe how we feel about the Not So Scary Halloween Party and Oogie Boogie Bash!
If I had to choose, I would choose Disneyland. I love candy! Yes, you do not have as much entertainment, and the rides are different but the candy is awesome! Magic Kingdom wins based on our data but it is totally up to you. You can not go wrong!
If you have been to both Halloween parties Which one did you like best? Leave a comment below and let us know!
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Even though I live less than two hours from Disney World, I have never been to the Not So Scary Halloween. I have friends who go every year and they love it.
I think it is worth going to, maybe I would feel different if I lived close?
Living in WA, we’ve only been to the party at Disneyland (it was a couple of years ago, before it moved). We got SO much candy, we even stopped before going on all of the treat trails. And it was good candy too, not cheesy cheap stuff. I’d definitely return someday, but it’s not really a time of year my college student kids can go at this point.
That is what I thought too, the candy was awesome!
Of all the thousands of Disney posts, I think you’ve done something I have not seen before! Well done! I have been to the one at Disneyland a time or two… loved it!
That is so sweet! Thanks we love the Halloween Parties!
Yes, this is a great post for Disney seekers!! Well done.
Thanks!
Well done, one of the best Disney posts we’ve seen.
Thanks!
I love Disneyland in Fall. We go all the time but do NOT stay or pay extra for the party /trick or treating.
We have great memories of Disneyland Halloween Party but I can’t believe how expensive it is this year!
Great post! Full of information in detail which is extremely helpful. I have not been to either event but I am definitely considering it.
I like the shorter lines!
Looks like Woody was all partied out!
Yes, he went back early!
Great info! Just my husband and I are going in October and I’m still debating whether or not to get Halloween Party tickets for the two of us without kids!
Shorter lines may make it worth it!
What a comprehensive list that is very helpful for families who are interested to attend this event. I’m a huge Disney fan since I used to work at Disney corporate years ago ( before moving to Canada ). I would definitely attend this event!
It is such a great event!
We went a few years ago to Disney World and LOVED it! Something everyone who loves Disney or Halloween must do!
I agree 100%!
I’ve always wanted to go to one of these parties! I really want to see the parade and eat the treats. Maybe even meet some characters! Maybe when I retire from teaching I can go!
It is a bucket list item for sure!
Great comparison. We have gone to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party many times and going again over Labor Day weekend. It is one of my favorite things to do at WDW. This year they are offering a new event called Tony’s Town Square – Cruella’s Halloween Hide-a-Way. I can’t wait to check it out and get our photo with Cruella!
That will be so fun! I want to hear all about it!
Great suggestions and breakdown of this event!
Thanks!
Thanks for all of the great information. I have never been, but it sounds like a fun party atmosphere.
Totally worth going one day!
Great comparison for people debating between the two!
For Sure!
So fun to know the differences at the Parks and to hear all about it!
Oh good, I hope it helps for planning purposes!
MNSSHP in Disney World is our favorite party! We haven’t been to the one in Disneyland yet though. Great to learn about how they’re different!
I love the Halloween Party!
I love Disney in the fall and winter!
That is the best time to go, it is too hot other times of the year!
This is something we are always wondering – Disneyland vs. Disney World. I grew up on east coast so love Disney World, but now on the west coast, Disneyland is closer. Thanks for sharing!
I know we live closer to Disneyland but we just love Disney World!
Disney sure knows how to celebrate holidays! Both locations sound fun.
Makes me excited for Halloween!
We’ve never been to either, but I would be more like to go to Magic Kingdom I think! You did a great job with the overview for both!
Thanks!
I’ve never been to either party, but I’m excited to attend the party at Magic Kingdom next week! Thanks for all of the good info! I might have to go to Disneyland too (for research purposes 🙂 )
I thought the same thing!
I love Disney Worlds MHP it is truly something to see. Especially the blacked out Space Mountain to rock music!!! Great article comparing them. Hope to get out to Cali to see there’s sometime soon.
I love Space Mountain at Disneyland but I am not sure if it is going to be scary this year!
As a teacher, I was never able to travel during October but since I retired last school year, I can now do whatever I want. I’m thinking of checking out Disney World this year, so maybe in October!
It is hot in October (we just had to add the water park option) but the party is really cool. I think December – March is the best time to visit.
We’ve been to the one in Orlando and LOVED it! In fact, we have a trip planned again for this fall and I’m definitely toying with the idea of doing it again!
I toy with that idea every year! It’s kinda bad!
I’ve never gone to Disney during the Halloween season…sounds like fun!
So much fun!
Oh my gosh! I wish I could take my grandsons to WDW for every holiday!
I know I am dying to go to the Very Merry Christmas Party!
I’ve wanted to go to this event since I heard about it! You did not help dissuade me from going! Lol. Excellent post. Thanks for sharing some of the fun and great tips!
It is really worth going to!
Sounds like they are both winners to me! I’d love to visit either one…but then again, I’m just Disney obsessed.
I know right! The price tag kept me away from Disneyland this year!
I always hate to say this out loud, because I always get an aghast look from someone, but Halloween is my least favorite holiday of the year. I’m not sure why. But I think this would be a blast with my kids!
I feel you that’s why I need happy Disney Fun!
We looked into getting tickets for this year, but didn’t realize how pricey they were. It does look like a lot of fun, though. I’m sure my kids would have a blast.
The price this year is the highest it has ever been. Makes me sad that just a few years ago it was so much cheaper and still just as good!
So much good info! I haven’t been to the Halloween party at Disney before, it looks so fun.
It is a blast!
My friend keeps trying to get me to join her for Disney at Halloween. Might have to take her up on the offer soon.
Great pics. Thanks for sharing.
Oh for sure you would have so much fun!
How FUN!! I love Halloween!! What an awesome time of year to visit!!
The Best! It is such a fun party!
We have been to Disney more than 30 times but we have never been to the special event for Halloween. We need to do it!
WoW that is pretty impressive to go 30 times. The Parties are amazing!
I had no idea that there are differences between the two parks for the same celebration. Good info, thanks for sharing!
No problem! I am debating if I should go to Disneyland this year to check out the California Adventure party but I’m kind of disappointed it is not at Disneyland.
We have not been to either party. But now I want to attend both!!! I did not know there were parties.
The parties are awesome!
I’ve been to Disney World many times but still haven’t gotten to go to the Halloween party. This is a great write up of what to expect. I need to plan my next trip for October, and get tickets to the party!
Oh yes, it is worth going!
OMG Disney’s Not So Scary Halloween Party look like a party I want to attend.
It is so fun! I wanted to go but ticket sold out by July!
We will actually be in Disney World this year during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party! We haven’t fully decided, but we are leaning toward buying the day ticket considering (1) we don’t have kids to trick-or-treat, and we can’t eat 90% of the candy they pass out and (2) we are more morning people and think we could get up early and do most of the park while the lines are low (I’ve heard they stay low during the day because a lot of visitors spend the day relaxing before the party. The party sounds like fun though! We’ll see!
Only thing is at about 3 the park gets insane. Because they let guest in that have party tickets. I would get park hopper and get out of there by lunch!
Going to Disney at Halloween is my one true dream! My husband and I went years ago during Spring and it’s made me long for a return for my favourite season of the year!
Halloween is so awesome at Disneyland!