It’s no secret that I love Disneyland. Having grown up in the shadow of the Matterhorn I have a nostalgic fondness for all things Disney. Okay, not literally the Matterhorn’s shadow but you know what I mean. A short 30 minute drive and annual passes meant I spent a good majority of my childhood, teenage, and young adult years at the happiest place in earth. The holidays are a magical time anywhere, but add in some Pixie dust and the holidays at Disney reach a whole new level of amazing. The beginning of September also marks the beginning of the Halloween season at the Disney resort and if you’re planning to spend Halloween with Mickey you’re in for a treat (and I do mean that literally). Some links contain affiliates, all opinions are my own.
how to celebrate Halloween with Mickey
fall décor galore
I don’t think anyone would argue that Disney is one of the best when it comes to the “theme” part of theme parks. During Halloween all your favorite Disney lands are fully decked out with all things Fall creating lots of fun photo ops for everyone in your group! Be sure to look for Halloween magic everywhere you turn, you don’t want to miss any!
dressed up characters
Not only can you take your Halloween picture with a Mickey pumpkin, but you can take one with Mickey himself in his costume! Disney characters like to get in on the action too and dress up for Halloween! It’s so fun to see all your favorite characters in their Halloween finery since it only happens once year. Don’t miss your favorite Cars characters dressed up in Cars Land at California Adventure!
rethemed rides and attractions
I’ve heard from many people that they actually prefer the Haunted Mansion when it’s decked out for the holidays in full Nightmare Before Christmas décor with Haunted Mansion Holiday. Personally, I don’t have a favorite but it’s easy to see why the rethemed ride continues to be a crowd favorite year after year. The classic Haunted Mansion ride isn’t the only one that gets a spooky makeover for Halloween, Space Mountain, Guardians of the Galaxy, and some attractions in Cars Land also get a fun update at this time of year.
spooky eats and treats
You won’t find any poison apples here but you WILL find plenty to tempt your taste buds. You’ll be able to try themed food and beverage options throughout both parks so keep your eyes peeled for seasonal cake pops, caramel apples, churros, sandwiches and more at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Parks. Look closely at your refreshments and you’ll even spot a little Halloween magic in the most ordinary places.
trick or treating with your pals
Something that I’ve never participated in is the Oogie Boogie Bash. This event takes place in California Adventure and happens after the parks close to the general public. It features trick-or-treating and exclusive entertainment. Plus, you can opt to start a few hours early and enjoy the park with the rest of the guests before the party begins, making this a very nice treat indeed. Tickets to this after-hours event sell out very quickly.
And don’t forget…
In addition to everything else there’s tons of seasonal merchandise, parades, and special shows to enjoy. The Halloween festivities extend into the Downtown Disney District too with decorations and fun holiday extras. Check out Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit if you have time, a fun scavenger hunt gameboard that you can redeem for a spooky surprise!
What if you can’t make it to a Disney park to enjoy the Halloween season? No worries, you can still enjoy some spooky pixie dust at home with some of these ideas!
Dress up like your favorite Disney character
Make some sweet Mickey treats at home
Watch a Halloween-themed Disney movie