Disney Confirms 13 September Halloween Party Nights and Alters Magic Kingdom Hours

The fall schedule shifts guest access to prioritize paid parties as the company leans on higher-priced experiences to drive revenue.

Overview

Disney published the fall operating plan on Monday, confirming 13 Mickey’s Not‑So‑Scary Halloween Party dates in September and 16 more in October, with the October slate ending on Halloween.
On party nights Magic Kingdom closes to regular ticket holders at 6 p.m., cancels the usual nighttime parade and fireworks, and runs party‑exclusive shows such as Mickey’s Boo‑To‑You Parade and the Not‑So‑Spooky Spectacular for ticketed guests.
To offset lost public hours Disney is shifting openings and some closings so non‑party visitors gain usable time in the park, for example by moving Early Entry to 7:30 a.m. and opening at 8:00 a.m. on select days and extending a non‑party night to 11:00 p.m.
Company leadership said on the recent earnings call that domestic attendance is up slightly while Experiences revenue has grown sharply because of higher base ticket prices, paid add‑ons like Lightning Lane, and pricier hotel stays.
The condensed party schedule together with active construction projects is pushing non‑party guests toward EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom or Disney Springs and is likely to require closer itinerary planning as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins November 8.