Visiting Orlando during Halloween season? Here's what you need to know before you go
I've mentioned before that Halloween starts in the Disney and Universal parks right around the time the Fourth of July winds down. So it should be no surprise that we are now fully into the spooky season in all the US theme parks.
In Orlando, both Universal and Disney have special-ticket after-hours Halloween events. Each are very popular, and distinct from each other, and well-worth including in any fall visit.
Universal's event is called "Halloween Horror Nights" and it is as scary as it sounds. Over at Disney World, the Magic Kingdom hosts "Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party". Here are a few top tips for each event.
Universal's Halloween Horror Nights
Takes place in the Universal Studios Florida park
Special party activities include purpose-built haunted houses, frightening character interactions, food & drinks
This is a scary event - think horror movie haunted houses
Buy your tickets early, some nights will sell out
Early in the season is cheaper and less crowded, avoid Friday & Saturday nights
Purchase a HHN express pass to make the most of your night
Get way more info and tips about Halloween Horror Nights here:
Go Informed Podcast episode 37 - All About Halloween Horror Nights
Go Informed Podcast episode 71 - Halloween Horror Nights First-Timer Tips
Disney World's Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Takes place in Magic Kingdom park
Special party activities include trick-or-treating, rare character interactions, shows, parades, fireworks, and food
Buy your tickets early, all dates will probably sell out
In August and September, weather can cancel shows, parades, and fireworks during the party
You can't see & do everything in one night. Have a plan to accomplish your priorities.
Halloween party days have extra-low crowds in Magic Kingdom. If you're not going to the party, start your day at Magic Kingdom, then park-hop to another park by 6pm.
Get way more info and tips about Disney World's Halloween Party here:
Our August 25th Facebook Live chat - First-Timer Tips for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Last month on our live Facebook chat, our friend Jon shared a TON of helpful tips for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
If you're a first-time Halloween Party guest, do not miss the archived edition of this conversation. You can watch us, or just listen, on my Facebook page anytime.