Get Ready for a Ghoulishly Good Time at Magic Kingdom
It might only be April, but the spirits are already restless at Walt Disney World. Disney has officially pulled back the curtain on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for 2026, and this year is shaping up to be a record-breaker. For the first time ever, the festivities will kick off on August 7, making it the earliest start date in the history of this fan-favorite event.
If you’ve never attended this after-hours bash at Magic Kingdom, you’re in for a treat (and plenty of candy). The party is a separately ticketed event that transforms the park with spooky decor, rare character meet-and-greets, and exclusive entertainment that you can’t see during a regular park day. From the Headless Horseman’s ride to the shower of sparks during the parade, it’s the ultimate way to celebrate the fall season.
Mark Your Calendars: 2026 Party Dates
This year’s event runs on select nights from August 7 through October 31. Because these parties are limited-capacity events, certain nights—especially Halloween night and the opening dates—tend to sell out incredibly fast. Here is the full lineup of dates for 2026:
- 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
In August and September, the parties generally fall on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Once October hits, the schedule ramps up to include almost every Thursday as well, culminating in the big finale on Halloween night.
Ticket Pricing and How to Book
Ticket prices for 2026 will range from $119 to $229 plus tax, depending on the date you choose. As you might expect, earlier dates in August are typically at the lower end of that range, while dates closer to Halloween see those peak prices. If you’re an Annual Passholder or a Disney Vacation Club Member, don’t forget to look for your $10 discount available on select nights.
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, or Shades of Green, you get a head start on booking. Resort guests can purchase tickets starting May 5, 2026. For everyone else, the general sale begins on May 12, 2026. We recommend being ready to go as soon as the window opens if you have your heart set on a specific night.
What’s New and Returning in 2026
Disney Imagineering is adding some fresh fun to the lineup this year. Stitch is taking over Tomorrowland with a brand-new dance party at the Rockettower Plaza Stage. He’ll be joined by Lilo and Angel, and word is that Stitch will be raiding Lilo’s costume trunk throughout the night to change up the vibe of the party. It sounds like a chaotic, high-energy addition that families are going to love.
Of course, the heavy hitters are back too. Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade will return, with the first showing scheduled for 8:15 PM. You can also look forward to the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show and the Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks, hosted by Jack Skellington himself.
Planning Pro-Tips for Your Party Night
- The 4 PM Secret: Even though the party officially starts at 7:00 PM, your ticket allows you to enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 PM. This is a great time to grab dinner or use Lightning Lane Multi Pass for a few rides before the party specific festivities begin.
- Costume Check: Dressing up is half the fun, but make sure your outfit follows Disney’s guidelines. Keep it family-friendly and avoid anything that could be a safety hazard on rides.
- Candy Strategy: You’ll get a bag for trick-or-treating, but wait until later in the night to hit the stations. The lines get shorter, and you won’t have to carry a heavy bag of chocolate while waiting for the parade.
Whether you’re there for the rare villains or just the atmosphere, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party remains one of the most magical experiences of the year. Start making those plans now, because August will be here before we know it!
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.