Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, photo ©Kristen Dyer
As vaccinations continue to roll out throughout the country, Disney lovers on both coasts are wondering what this effect will have on Disney parks. Will park capacity be increased? What does this mean for mask regulations? What about indoor dining? But one question seems to pop up over and over again:
Will the Halloween parties return?
For many years now, Disney has hosted special ticketed Halloween events. At Walt Disney World, it has consistently been Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom. At the Disneyland Resort, this party has switched back and forth between both parks, and sometimes changes its name. We’ve been to both Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park and the Oogie Boogie Bash at California Adventure.
Oogie Boogie Bash, California Adventure
The Halloween parties on both coasts were put on pause in 2020 because of the COVID pandemic, and so far, there is no news as to whether or not the parties will return for 2021. In 2020, when the decision was made to cancel Walt Disney World’s party, Disney said the reason for the cancellation was because stage shows, parades and fireworks – all prominent features of the party – were considered high-risk activities and could not take place. At Disneyland, the parks were still closed, as state guidelines did not allow them to open at that time.
Mickey’s Halloween Party, Disneyland
Things have changed. The Disneyland parks are now reopen. Walt Disney World has been slowly reintroducing stage shows to their entertainment lineup, although parades are still not running. Fireworks are also off the table for the time being.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Walt Disney World
Still, the Halloween parties of past years typically began in August, so there is some time between now and then. It could be that with increased vaccinations and proper socially distance rules in place, Disney might be comfortable bringing the parties back. On the other hand, parties like these take a tremendous amount of planning, and Disney may not feel comfortable planning something so far in advance when the future is still uncertain.
Mickey’s Halloween Party, Disneyland Park
I definitely want Disney to wait to bring back these parties when it is safe to do so. In the past, we have loved the parties. Lines for uber popular attractions were short, we came home with our weight in treats (okay, maybe not our weight, but it was a LOT of candy), it was fun to wear costumes in the park, and it was even more fun seeing what other guests came up with for their costumes.
The parade and the fireworks were both extra special, and we adored all the spooky décor throughout the parks. The treat trails at the Oogie Boogie Bash in particular were outstanding and featured Disney villains who chatted up guests as they passed on their way to grab some treats.
Whether or not these parties return for 2021 is still uncertain, but I seriously hope that when this health crisis is over, Disney restores these parties. They are a fun and unusual way to explore and enjoy the Disney parks.
Editor’s Note: A head’s up! Disney will be celebrating Halfway to Halloween later this week, so we may find out that the Halloween Party will be returning. Stay tuned to The Mouse For Less for the details.
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