How to Do Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party With Little Ones
If you’ve ever dreamed of trick-or-treating through Magic Kingdom under a twinkly fall sky, you’re going to love Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP for us Disney nerds). But if you’re bringing little kids with you? You’ll want a solid plan, a little pixie dust, and maybe a backup pack of fruit snacks.
As a mom and travel advisor, I’ve done the “party with preschoolers” dance more than once—and lived to tell the tale. So here’s your no-stress guide to doing Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with toddlers, preschoolers, and younger kiddos in tow.
Spoiler alert: It can be magical, and you don’t have to stay till midnight.
First Things First: Know What You’re Signing Up For
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event that takes place on select nights from mid-August through Halloween at Magic Kingdom. The party runs from 7:00 p.m. to midnight, but guests with a ticket can enter the park as early as 4:00 p.m. (Pro tip: Take advantage of this!)
MNSSHP includes:
Trick-or-treating around the park
A special Halloween fireworks show
The Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular on the castle stage
The Boo-to-You Parade (a must-see!)
Dance parties, rare character meet-and-greets, and lower wait times on rides
Kids (and adults) are encouraged to wear costumes!
Sounds amazing, right? But also: a lot. Especially when you’re navigating it with strollers, nap schedules, and sugar crashes.
Step One: Buy Tickets Early and Choose the Right Night
MNSSHP sells out—especially in October. If you’re going during fall break or around Halloween, book as soon as you know your dates.
Travel Advisor Tip:
Avoid Fridays and weekends if you want slightly smaller crowds. A Tuesday or Thursday party earlier in the season is usually less packed, which makes a huge difference with littles.
Costumes & Comfort: Dress for Fun (and the Weather)
Yes, dressing up is half the fun—but Florida is still hot and humid in September and October, especially before sunset.
Costume Tips for Kids:
Choose breathable fabrics and short sleeves if possible
Think “costume-inspired outfits” for toddlers (like a Belle t-shirt and tutu)
Pack a backup outfit in case your little ghoul overheats or spills Dole Whip
Avoid anything with too many layers, props, or itchy seams
And for Grown-Ups:
You can totally wear costumes too! Just keep Disney’s guidelines in mind (no full masks, no floor-length capes for adults). My advice? Stick to fun, functional, and comfortable—especially if you’ll be pushing a stroller for hours.
Party Night Strategy: Pace Yourself, Parents
4:00–6:30 PM: Get In and Get Settled
Eat an early dinner before the party really kicks off
Take a few rides your kids love before it gets dark and more crowded
Snap photos while everyone is still fresh (and not sweaty/hyper/sleepy)
Grab a spot in front of the castle for cute costume pics!
6:30–8:30 PM: Trick-or-Treat and Explore
Head to a few candy trails early—cast members are very generous with treats!
Hit a dance party like the Disney Junior Jam (great for toddlers to burn energy)
Meet a few characters if lines are short—but don’t stress if you skip this
8:15 PM: Boo-to-You Parade (First Showing)
This is hands-down one of the best Disney parades—catch the first one if your kiddos can hang! Headless Horseman, villains, classic characters in costume, catchy music—it’s spooky and sweet.
Pro tip: Stake out a spot in Frontierland or Liberty Square for a less crowded view.
9:15 PM: Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular (Fireworks)
If your kids can stay awake for it, the fireworks are worth it—Mickey and pals fly through a ghostly adventure with projections, music, and magic. But if they’re fading fast, it’s okay to skip and catch the show from afar while strolling out.
Stroller Strategy: Bring It (Even If You Think You Don’t Need It)
Seriously. I don’t care if your kid swears they’re “a big kid now.” They’ll be begging to be carried by 8 p.m.
Why You Want the Stroller:
Great for holding costumes, water bottles, snacks, and candy
Your child will absolutely fall asleep in it by the end of the night
Makes navigating crowds way easier when little legs get tired
Snacks, Hydration & Rest Stops
There’s plenty of candy, but not much in the way of protein-packed toddler snacks unless you pack your own. Bring:
A small insulated bag with fruit pouches, goldfish, and a PB&J
A packable or refillable water bottle (you can get free ice water at quick-service spots)
A cooling towel or small fan if it’s a warm night
Also, don’t underestimate the power of the Baby Care Center near Crystal Palace. It’s quiet, air-conditioned, and great for diaper changes or a few moments of calm.
Don’t Try to Do It All
The best part of MNSSHP with little ones? Seeing it through their eyes. They won’t remember how many rides they got on or whether you watched every show—but they will remember:
Dancing with Doc McStuffins under the stars
Getting candy from pirates in Adventureland
Watching Mickey and Minnie wave from a glowing float
Falling asleep with a pumpkin bucket in their lap, full of magic and M&Ms
Set realistic expectations, go with the flow, and focus on the fun.
Quick Tips Recap
Buy your party tickets early—especially for October dates
Choose lightweight, comfy costumes and pack backup clothes
Bring the stroller—even if you think you’re past that stage
Enter the park right at 4 p.m. to get the most out of your ticket
Know your kid’s limits—it’s okay to leave early!
Capture the moments, but don’t over-schedule
Let the magic (and sugar) do its thing!
Ready to Plan Your Spooktacular Disney Trip?
Whether it’s your first Disney vacation or your fifteenth, I’d love to help make it stress-free and special—especially for your littlest Mouseketeers. From party tickets and stroller rentals to resort recommendations and custom itineraries, I’m here to make your Not-So-Scary adventure feel downright dreamy.
Reach out today and let’s get planning!
