The 2026 Spooky Season Has Arrived
Fall at Walt Disney World is a fan-favorite season for many reasons, but Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is always the crown jewel. Disney has officially confirmed the dates, entertainment, and pricing for the 2026 season, and there is a lot to unpack. While the event continues to be a highlight of the year at Magic Kingdom, guests will need to prepare for a notable jump in ticket costs for those peak October nights.
The $229 Ticket: Breaking Down the Price Increase
The most significant news this year is the pricing structure. In 2025, party tickets topped out at $199. For 2026, the ceiling has moved up to $229 per person. While the starting price remains at $119 for the earliest dates in August, the high-demand nights close to Halloween have seen a $30 increase. For a family of four, that is an extra $120 compared to last year’s maximum price.
It is important to remember that these tickets are a separate cost from standard park admission. However, the party ticket does allow for a bit of a head start. Guests can enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4 PM, three hours before the official 7 PM start time. With the party running until midnight, you can squeeze about eight hours of park time into one ticket.
What is New in 2026?
To help justify the higher price point, Disney is introducing some fresh entertainment. This year, Stitch is hosting a brand-new dance party at the Rockettower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland. He will be joined by Lilo and Angel for a show that features “Lilo’s Costume Trunk.” As Stitch pulls different accessories from the trunk, the theme of the party swaps, keeping the energy unpredictable throughout the night.
Another major addition for 2026 is the inclusion of roaming villains. This is a first for the event and promises to add a much-needed layer of atmosphere as guests move between trick-or-treat stations and attractions.
Returning Favorites
Fans of the classics do not need to worry. The core entertainment that makes this party iconic is all set to return:
- Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade: Featuring the legendary Headless Horseman and the Gravediggers.
- Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular: The fireworks show hosted by Jack Skellington.
- Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular: The Sanderson Sisters return to the castle stage alongside Disney’s most famous villains.
- The Cadaver Dans: The undead barber shop quartet will be back in Frontierland.
Key Dates and Booking Information
If you are planning to attend, you will want to act fast when tickets go on sale. Guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can purchase tickets starting May 5. All other guests can begin purchasing on May 12. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members should also look out for available discounts.
The 2026 party dates are:
- August: 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
- September: 1, 4, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29
- October: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
Planning Pro-Tips
If you want to experience the magic without the $229 price tag, aim for the August and early September dates. These are historically the lowest-priced nights of the season. Also, take advantage of the 4 PM entry. This allows you to ride a few favorite attractions before the party-exclusive entertainment begins at 7 PM, leaving your party hours free for candy, characters, and shows.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.