Hello everyone! Summer may just be getting underway, but Walt Disney World has announced their newest event for the fall! Instead of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party – a beloved Halloween event they’ve been doing for years – they’ve unveiled plans for the new “Disney After Hours Boo Bash”. This isn’t just a carbon copy of MNSSHP! There are many differences in the two events – and with a hefty price tag, you need to know what you’re getting in to!
What can you expect from this new event? Here’s all the important points you need to know!
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What’s Included?
From the press release, it seems like the biggest difference between MNSSHP and this new Boo Bash event is the shows. You may recall that there was a Hocus Pocus inspired villains show at the castle as well as the Boo to You parade during the previous parties. Due to COVID restrictions limiting shows and parades, they’ve notably scrapped those events. Instead, spooky cavalades will be featured throughout the night! These are essentially smaller versions of the parades without all the spectacle, which keeps crowds at bay. They’ll be going on throughout the night featuring everyone’s favorite Halloween characters. Jack Skellington, Sally, and Disney villains will all make appearances on floats throughout the night.
They also advertise that Maleficent will be around in the form of a fire breathing dragon. If I had to guess – I would think that means we should see our favorite Festival of Fantasy float returning!
Additionally, the decor has been described as Cinderella inspired, with the pumpkin carriage playing a large part in the decorations. I’ll be excited to see how the incorporate all that into the traditional fall decor!
Is There Trick Or Treating?
Yes! The official press release states that trick or treating and costumes will be allowed as in years past. There will also be Disney Photopass photographers around capturing “special moments” which I hope means the return of photo opportunities outside the Haunted Mansion and other areas like in years past! It does not say whether or not certain attractions will feature special changes for the party (for example – real life pirates hanging around in Pirates of the Caribbean!)
What’s the Cost?
The cost for attending the party depends on when you go. Looking to catch one of the earlier dates? You’ll find yourself paying $129-139 for nights during August and September, and then go up to $159-169 for nights in October. If you want to go on Halloween night expect to shill out $199 plus tax per person!
If you’re an annual passholder or a DVC member, you’ll be able to get a slight discount on tickets. Additionally, you’ll have to pay extra for the food at the party. So these extra costs should definitely be taken in to consideration when planning!
The majority of parties take place on Sunday and Tuesday nights. For the full schedule, check out WDW News!
Is It Worth It?
Well, it depends on what you’re looking for! If you want shorter lines, fun photo opportunities and a TON of candy, then yes! However if you are someone who enjoys the parades and shows more, this party might not be for you. I’ve seen many people say that the price tag doesn’t match what you’re getting this year due to COVID restrictions.
As for me? Our August trip happens to fall on one of those days – so we’re gonna go! I love MNSSHP so I’m hoping I’ll enjoy this one just as much even without the shows or parade. I love Halloween and especially Halloween at Disney. Even though I may not get to say hi to my buddy Elvis Stitch, after the year and a half we’ve all had, I’ll take whatever bit of Halloween spirit at the parks I can get!
For more Disney planning tips, don’t forget to check out my favorite guide – The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. They come out with a new version every year, and with COVID-19 still affecting the way the parks operate, it’s more important now than ever to make sure you prepare before you go. Researching before you go is extremely important when it comes to Disney!
Are you planning on going to the After Hours Boo Bash? Let me know below! Don’t forget to check out my other articles on Walt Disney World tips while you’re here!
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