An introvert’s guide to Savor the Savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
Jambo, D•Introverts!
Are you a big fan of Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Then something tells me you’re going to love Savor the Savanna. This tour combines a private safari ride through Kilimanjaro Safaris with African-inspired tapas and drinks. You’ll have a guide on board as well as opportunities to chat with zookeepers out in the savanna.
How does it work?
Pick your tour
Currently, tours happen twice a day at 3:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and last approximately two hours. Be sure to check the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app for available times.
Book your tour
Prices range from $189 to $199, depending on the date. Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Disney Visa Cardmembers can receive a 15% discount. Tours can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. Your tickets will automatically link to your account.
Note: Because this tour takes place inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom, theme park admission is required.
Check in
You’ll check in 15 minutes before your tour time at the Curiosity Animal Tours kiosk, which is located across from the Kilimanjaro Safaris entrance. They’ll ask for your name and identification and give you a lanyard with a name tag.
On a regular safari, you may be riding with 30+ guests. But with Savor the Savanna, each tour maxes out at 12 guests, so it will feel much more intimate.
Explore the Harambe Wildlife Reserve
Your private tour follows the same path as the regular safari, but you’ll have opportunities to pull off and talk about the animals. Your guide will have lots of fun facts to share, and you’ll also have a chance to ask a zookeeper any burning questions you may have. You’ll even have moments where you can stand up in the back of the truck to get a better view.
Tip: You get what you put in, so it might not hurt to think of some questions for the zookeeper before the tour. If you’re not comfortable speaking up, that’s okay too. Odds are, the other guests on your tour will pipe up and keep the chat going.
Enjoy tapas and drinks
After 30 minutes of exploring the savanna, you’ll arrive at your dining location called the Boma, a covered platform area overlooking the savanna. This is also where you’ll find restrooms, if needed. They’ve set up a handful of tables with tablecloths and chairs. You don’t have an assigned table, so snag a spot wherever you’d like.
FYI: Based on the number of tables and guests, you’ll most likely be sharing a table with others.
The Cast Members will explain the food and drink offerings. Everything is included in your tour price, including beer and wine. For your food options, think tapas set out family style:
- curry chicken salad
- shrimp (maybe also curry?)
- hummus
- fruit chutney
- green chutney (maybe cilantro?)
- fig bars
- bread
- fruit (strawberries, pineapple, and grapes)
- cheeses
- tomato, cucumber, and onion salad
- olives
- pickles
And if you’re thirsty, you have a few options:
- First Magnitude Brewing Company’s Tiger Eye Gold Ale
(brewed just for Disney’s Animal Kingdom) - Casa Beer (lager from Morocco)
- Indaba Chardonnay (South Africa)
- Painted Wolf The Den Chenin Blanc (South Africa)
- Painted Wolf The Den Pinotage (South Africa)
- Cederberg Merlot Shiraz (South Africa)
- POG (passion fruit, orange, and guava) juice
- water
Save room for dessert! We had three options: a layered s’mores treat served in a small tin, a lighter cake, and a chocolate bar on a stick. I apologize for the lack of description, haha, but they were pretty standard desserts.
While you’re at the Boma, you can take in views of the savanna. Binoculars are provided. You’ll also be invited to walk out across a bridge for a different view. This is where we encountered a second zookeeper who told us all about the ostriches.
Expect to spend 45 minutes to an hour in the dining location. I didn’t feel rushed, but it would have been nice to spend a little more time out there, especially as the sun started to go down. If you’re wondering how much alcohol you can drink during this time, I would say two to three drinks without feeling the need to chug.
Enjoy the second half of the savanna
The tour isn’t over at this point. You’ll hop back into the truck and see the other half of the savanna. Your guide will, of course, have more facts to share about the animals and Disney’s conservation efforts. Expect another 30 or so minutes out on the savanna before your tour ends.
The tour concludes with a parting gift: a bamboo coaster with the Savor the Savanna logo.
Overall thoughts
I enjoyed this private safari tour. I like the VIP feeling of doing a tour at a Disney Park. As mentioned, it feels more intimate. For introverts, the smaller the group the better. There’s only a little bit of awkwardness as you’re sitting in the back of the truck because the benches face each other. But everyone is busy looking out at the savanna or listening to the guide, so it’s not so bad.
As sometimes happens on these tours, you may end up chit-chatting with other guests, especially when dining at your communal table. Your guide will keep the safari conversation going, but I would be prepared to ask the zookeeper a question if you want to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
I thought the food was fine, nothing too adventurous or unique. The included adult beverages help support the price point, but I do think the tour is a tad expensive when I think of everything it has to offer.
If you're really into animals and/or Kilimanjaro Safaris, this will be your jam.
Savor the Savanna
Description: Private safari tour (food and drink included)
Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
When: Daily, 3:15 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. currently (times vary)
Length: 2 hours
Age Requirement: 8 years and up
Price: $189–$199 (varies by date)
Discount: 15% for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, and Disney Visa cardmembers
How to Book: Online or My Disney Experience app
Park Admission Required: Yes
Cancellation Policy: Up to 1 day before
How to avoid crowds: attend Disney After Hours
An introvert’s guide to 2024 Disney After Hours at EPCOT
Introversion Insight:
A lot of people don’t like crowded places, but for introverts, it can be overstimulating. Way too many strangers in one place. (And let’s hope they don’t want to strike up a conversation.)
Disney After Hours is a ticketed event that allows you to visit a Walt Disney World park after it closes for the day. You have three hours to do all the things—but with fewer people. They limit the number of tickets sold.
That’s why I think Disney After Hours is worth it and perfect for D•Introverts. Guaranteed lower crowd levels! It’s becoming harder and harder to find a “slow season,” so with these limited-capacity events, you’ll notice a difference.
Avoiding the crowds—my mission in life
What’s included?
This is what you’re paying for:
- Lower wait times for attractions
- No blazing sun at night (especially important for the summer)
- Ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water
- Characters
And what I’m really paying for is a way to experience the park without the crowds.
Who should attend?
If crowds zap your energy, this event is for you. Less people-y for the win.
If you have a rest day during your trip, do Disney After Hours on that day. Sleep in and relax at your Resort during the day and then you’ll be ready for the late night.
If you don’t want to mess with Genie+, Individual Lightning Lanes, or virtual queues for rides, consider Disney After Hours. They’re not used during the event because you don’t need them.
If it’s your favorite park, try the after-hours event as a different way to experience it.
If you’ve already visited the park on a previous trip, Disney After Hours is a good way to repeat your favorite rides and attractions. If you’ve never visited the park, I don’t recommend Disney After Hours because not everything is open. You won’t receive the full park experience.
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World at a busier time of year, this event allows you to bypass the crowds.
Which park?
At different times during the year, you have four options:
- Magic Kingdom
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- EPCOT
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Let’s talk about Disney After Hours at EPCOT in 2024.
How does it work?
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights in February through July 2024:
- February 2, 8, and 15
- March 7 and 28
- April 4 and 25
- May 9, 23, and 30
- June 6 and 20
- July 18
All are on Thursdays except February 2, which is a Friday.
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $149 to $159, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can receive a $30 discount.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. You have the option of electronic (mobile) delivery or postal delivery. Electronic is preferred because it links with your account, and then you can just use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get in.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile and you don’t have your ticket mailed to you, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get in.)
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney After Hours.
Create a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan for Disney After Hours. Three hours go by fast. Figure out your priorities. Rides? Characters? Ice cream? Unfortunately, you can’t do it all. (Oh? Is that a challenge?!)
What’s available during Disney After Hours at EPCOT
Attractions
You have twelve options (thirteen if you count both missions on Mission: SPACE):
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Did you notice the image above? Guardians is only standby during After Hours! No need to mess with the virtual queue or Individual Lightning Lane.
Tip: Be near this ride shortly after 9 p.m. when it switches to standby. In my experience, they had us queue up early and reopened the ride before the official event start time. We were on and off by 9:50 p.m.
If you plan on watching the fireworks, watch them closer to Mexico so you can quickly escape to Guardians when the show is over.
- Test Track Presented by Chevrolet
- Frozen Ever After
- Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
- Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana
- Soarin' around the World
- Spaceship Earth
- Journey into Imagination with Figment
- Mission: SPACE (Green and Orange Missions)
- Living with the Land
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends
- Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
Note: Compared to other parks with After Hours, EPCOT doesn’t have as many headliner attractions where you’d typically find longer wait times on a regular park day.
They are also spread out more. With EPCOT being a large park, be prepared to do some walking in these 3 hours!
Food and beverages
As mentioned above, ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water are included in your admission. You’ll find them at snack carts near Mission: SPACE, Creations Shop, The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Imagination! pavilion, Norway, and Canada.
Note: Locations subject to change.
Tip: Maple popcorn from the Canada popcorn cart is included in After Hours!
For purchase, you have limited options and many close early:
- Connections Eatery (until 10 p.m.)
- Connections Café (until 10 p.m.)
- Yorkshire County Fish Shop (until 11 p.m.)
- Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe (select menu items)
- World Discovery Hot Dog Cart
- Rose & Crown Pub
Note: Mobile order is not available during Disney After Hours at EPCOT.
Entertainment
Did I mention 3 hours go by fast? If you can squeeze in some shows and characters, here are your options:
- DJ in World Discovery
The music is piped throughout the entire park. (I must admit it’s a little odd to hear DJ music being played within the World Showcase.)
- Mariachi Cobre in Mexico
- 10:10 p.m.
- 11:10 p.m.
- 12:10 a.m.
- Live bands at the Canada Mill Stage
- 10:30 p.m.
- 11:30 p.m.
- Classic characters (I spotted Mickey and Pluto, but characters seemed hard to find.)
Note: Disney PhotoPass Photographers are in the park during Disney After Hours at EPCOT.
Merchandise
Since time is limited, I wouldn’t recommend shopping during the event, but in case you do, here are your options:
- Creations Shop
- ImageWorks—The “What If” Labs
- Treasures of Xandar
- Mission: SPACE Cargo Bay
- Test Track SIMporium
- SeaBase Gift Shop
- Plaza de los Amigos
- World Traveler
Head in to the park
Your plan is planned. The 1,861 points of light on Spaceship Earth await.
Event hours go from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Your ticket actually gets you into EPCOT at 7 p.m., so you have 6 hours in the park—roughly half the time with all the regular day guests and the other half with just event guests. That’s good to remember because that means you won’t escape all the crowds until later.
(Official park closing time is 9 p.m., but that’s when Luminous: The Symphony of Us starts. By the time it’s over and the day guests have filtered out of the park, it may be closer to 9:30 p.m. before crowd levels seem low.)
Note: After the fireworks crowd leaves, they block off a large portion of the World Showcase. You’ll find it’s blocked off from China to Morocco.
Check-in
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the far left side as well as the International Gateway entrance. You’ll see large yellow signs to guide you. Oftentimes there will be a Cast Member out front directing guests as well. You’ll want to stay to the left as the right side will still be in use by guests with regular park tickets.
In my experience, guests started queuing up between 6 and 6:30 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband to go on rides.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you’ll need to exit the park to check in and get your wristband. I only found check-in locations at the main park entrance and the International Gateway entrance.
General Tips
- Don’t spend all day at a park and then attend Disney After Hours. You’re asking for an introvert hangover if you do.
- Eat dinner before the event starts.
- Don’t expect to walk on all the rides.
However, it’s not uncommon to find 10- to 20-minute wait times during Disney After Hours. Wait times typically go down the later it gets. The longest wait I experienced was 55 minutes, and that was for Test Track.
- As much as I like to leisurely stroll through the park, I wouldn’t during Disney After Hours. In fact, I would speed walk.
More After Hours
How to avoid crowds: attend Disney After Hours
An introvert’s guide to 2024 Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Introversion Insight:
A lot of people don’t like crowded places, but for introverts, it can be overstimulating. Way too many strangers in one place. (And let’s hope they don’t want to strike up a conversation.)
Disney After Hours is a ticketed event that allows you to visit a Walt Disney World park after it closes for the day. You have 3 hours to do all the things—but with fewer people. They limit the number of tickets sold.
That’s why I think Disney After Hours is worth it and perfect for D•Introverts. Guaranteed lower crowd levels! It’s becoming harder and harder to find a “slow season,” so with these limited-capacity events, you’ll notice a difference.
Avoiding the crowds—my mission in life
What’s included?
This is what you’re paying for:
- Lower wait times for attractions
- No blazing sun at night
- Ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water
- Characters
And what I’m really paying for is a way to experience the park without the crowds.
Who should attend?
If crowds zap your energy, this event is for you. Less people-y for the win.
If you have a rest day during your trip, do Disney After Hours on that day. Sleep in and relax at your Resort during the day and then you’ll be ready for the late night.
If you don’t want to mess with Genie+, Individual Lightning Lanes, or virtual queues for rides, consider Disney After Hours. They’re not used during the event—because you don’t need them.
If it’s your favorite park, try the after-hours event as a different way to experience it.
If you’ve already visited the park on a previous trip, Disney After Hours is a good way to repeat your favorite rides and attractions. If you’ve never visited the park, I don’t recommend Disney After Hours because not everything is open. You won’t receive the full park experience.
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World at a busier time of year, this event allows you to bypass the crowds.
Which park?
At different times during the year, you have four options:
- Magic Kingdom
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- EPCOT
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Let’s talk about Disney After Hours at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2024.
How does it work?
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights in January through August 2024:
- January 10 and 24
- February 21 and 26
- March 13, 20, and 27
- April 3 and 10
- May 22 and 29
- June 12, 19, and 26
- July 10, 17, and 24
- August 7, 14, 21, and 29
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $145 to $175, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can receive a $30 discount.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. The only delivery method is electronic (mobile). Your tickets will link to your account, and then you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get in.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get in.)
Note: You don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney After Hours.
Create a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan for Disney After Hours. Three hours go by fast. Figure out your priorities. Rides? Characters? Shows? Unfortunately, you can’t do it all. (Oh? Is that a challenge?!)
What’s available during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios
Attractions
You have eight options:
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
- Slinky Dog Dash
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Toy Story Mania!
- Star Tours – The Adventure Continues
- Alien Swirling Saucers
Note: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith is closed for refurbishment and is not expected to reopen in time for Disney After Hours 2024.
Food and beverages
As mentioned above, ice cream, popcorn, and bottle soda/water are included in your admission. You’ll find them at snack carts on Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, Grand Avenue, and in Toy Story Land.
For purchase, you have limited options:
- Woody’s Lunch Box (mobile order available)
- Milk Stand (mobile order available)
- Oga’s Cantina (walk-up availability)
- Some outdoor bars
Entertainment
Did I mention 3 hours go by fast? If you can squeeze in some shows and characters, here are your options:
- Fantasmic!
- Disney Movie Magic
- Wonderful World of Animation
- Select characters (subject to change): Donald Duck, Duffy the Disney Bear, Thumper, Jiminy Cricket, Goofy, Minnie Mouse, Jasmine, Tiana, Mary Poppins, Penguin Waiter, Pocahontas, Meeko, and Rafiki have been spotted.
Note: Disney PhotoPass Photographers are in the park during Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios.
Merchandise
Since time is limited, I wouldn’t recommend shopping during the event, but in case you do, here are your options:
- Mickey’s of Hollywood
- Tatooine Traders
- The Market Merchants in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities
- Jessie’s Trading Post
- Tower Hotel Gifts
- Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers (walk-up availability)
- Droid Depot (walk-up availability)
Head in to the park
Your plan is planned. The neon lights of Hollywood Boulevard await.
Event hours go from 9:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. But your ticket actually gets you into Hollywood Studios at 7 p.m., so you have 5.5 hours in the park—2.5 hours with all the regular day guests and 3 hours with just event guests. That’s good to remember because that means you won’t escape all the crowds until later.
Check-in
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. You’ll see large signs to guide you. Oftentimes there will be a Cast Member out front directing guests as well. You’ll want to stay to the right as the left side will still be in use by guests with regular park tickets.
In my experience, guests started queuing up around 6:30 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband to go on rides or walk farther back into the park.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you don’t have to exit the park to check in and get your wristband. You’ll find a second check-in location at the end of Hollywood Boulevard (at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard).
Tips
- Don’t spend all day at a park and then attend Disney After Hours. You’re asking for an introvert hangover if you do.
- Eat dinner before the event starts.
- Don’t expect to walk on all the rides.
Although, it’s not uncommon to find 10- to 20-minute wait times during Disney After Hours. Wait times typically go down the later it gets. The longest wait I experienced was 40 minutes, and that was for Slinky Dog Dash.
- As much as I like to leisurely stroll through the park, I wouldn’t during Disney After Hours. In fact, I would speed walk.
More After Hours
Need a quiet spot at Walt Disney World? Look for the old smoking areas!
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
On May 1, 2019, Disney Parks banned smoking inside the parks. As a result, all these off-the-beaten-path, tucked-way smoking areas were now empty. Disney inadvertently created what I’m affectionately calling D•Introvert Zones, quiet areas where introverts can take a breather and escape the crowds!
Leading up to the smoking ban, Disney had reduced the number of smoking areas, and as of 2019, eleven areas remained. Some of these areas have been repurposed, but many of them remain accessible and are surprisingly quiet. Let’s go over each area.
Magic Kingdom
Tomorrowland: Near Space Mountain
- Shaded area with benches
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Frontierland: Near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
- Scenic area next to the water
- Not as tucked away
Because everyone passes this area as they exit Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, it may not be as quiet or empty.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Africa/Asia: Pathway in between
- Scenic pathway
- Covered area with tables and chairs
Tip: Get some fries at Mr. Kamal’s nearby and take it up to this area.
DinoLand U.S.A.: Near DINOSAUR
- Secluded pathway
- Not always accessible
Cast Members are sometimes positioned just to the right of the DINOSAUR entrance, blocking access to this area.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sunset Boulevard: Near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror exit
- Shaded area with benches
- Tucked-away spot
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
Grand Avenue: End of street before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge entrance
- Mostly standing room
- May be used for character meet-and-greets
EPCOT
World Nature: Across from The Land Pavilion
- Scenic area by water with monorail overhead
- Some benches
World Discovery: Across from Mission: SPACE
- Multiple benches
- Tucked-away spots
Tip: Get some Joffrey’s coffee nearby and enjoy it in this area.
World Showcase: Between France and United Kingdom Pavilions
- Scenic area by water
- One of the quietest, tucked-away spots in my experience
- May be used for special events
World Showcase: Italy Pavilion
- Mostly standing room
- Not very tucked away
World Showcase: Between China and Norway Pavilions
- Standing room
- Not very tucked away
An introvert’s guide to 2023 Disney Jollywood Nights
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
What is it?
Disney Jollywood Nights is a separately ticketed after-hours event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s lightly themed as “Hollywood glamour meets holiday cheer.” Your ticket grants you five and a half hours inside the park (four hours of actual event time), with a variety of seasonal offerings:
- entertainment
- characters
- food and beverages
- attractions
- merchandise
- photo opportunities
- new in-park character
This introvert’s guide to 2023 Disney Jollywood Nights will prepare you for the event so you’ll know what to expect, how to deal with the crowds, and how to get the most out of the event.
When is it?
The event takes place on select nights in November and December:
- Saturday, November 11 (sold out)*
- Saturday, November 18 (sold out)*
- Monday, November 20
- Monday, November 27
- Wednesday, November 29
- Monday, December 4
- Wednesday, December 6
- Saturday, December 16 (sold out)*
- Monday, December 18
- Wednesday, December 20
*as of November 20
As you can see, all the Saturday nights are sold out. This is actually a good thing for crowds, as weekdays may be less crowded, and seeing as only three nights are sold out as of the time of this writing, you may just find yourself mixed in with light crowds.
How much is it?
Prices range from $159 to $179, depending on the night. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket on select nights.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. They’ll link with your account so you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get into the park.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get into the park.)
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Disney Jollywood Nights.
Note: A cheaper child’s ticket is not offered for Disney Jollywood Nights; however, children under the age of 3 don’t need a ticket.
Where do I go?
Check in
Event hours go from 8:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. But your ticket actually gets you into Hollywood Studios at 7 p.m., so you have five and a half hours in the park.
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. This area is typically sectioned off from the left side with temporary barriers. The left side stays open for day guests to enter the park until the park closes at 8 p.m.
In my experience, guests started queuing up around 5:30 p.m.–5:45 p.m. If you want to make sure you’re at the front of this long line of people, I would be at the gate at this time. If you don’t get there early, I’d let the rush subside and be at the gate around 7 p.m. I observed maybe a ten-minute wait at 7 p.m. to get in.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you and give you a credential (lanyard). Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband and credential to go on rides or enter lands, so be sure to keep both with you. This is also when you’ll receive an event map.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you can visit a wristband distribution location inside the park to check in:
- inside Star Wars: Launch Bay
- to the right of Muppet*Vision 3D
Note: You don’t need to go to the front of the park to receive your event map. They have them at all the distribution locations.
In my experience, these locations started distributing wristbands around 4:30 p.m. Since this is well over two hours before the event’s official start, I never observed long lines.
Although the official event start time is 8:30 p.m., some locations may open early around 8 p.m. For example, when I attended, Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction started selling the popular Christmas Gertie Cookie at 8 p.m., so I made sure to do this first thing. This is a great way to maximize the limited time you have during the event.
What do I wear?
Disney encourages its guests to don their holiday apparel for this event. In fact, they suggest getting fancy. Think old Hollywood red carpet with a holiday twist. Of course, dressing up is not required. I noticed there was a mix: some guests dressed up, some didn’t.
If you don’t want to dress up because you think it will bring more attention to you, don’t feel obligated. There were plenty of people not dressed up, so you won’t feel like an outsider if you decide to keep it casual.
What’s the plan?
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan because four hours of event time is not enough time to do it all. If you’ve done any of the other Disney After Hours events, you know what I mean. We’ll go over all the event offerings so you can prioritize your list and know what’s best for you as a D•Introvert.
Generally speaking, for a themed after-hours event, I recommend focusing on event-exclusive offerings. This means you’ll be experiencing the most popular aspects of the night—which attract the biggest crowds.
Crowds are heaviest around Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, and especially The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard area. If you need a break from the crowds, venture toward the attractions that are open during the event. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land were the least crowded in my experience.
You know your limits, but at the very least, I suggest the following things:
- Twilight Soiree at the Tip Top Club
- Disney Holidays in Hollywood
- What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
Note: With Disney Jollywood Nights being a brand-new event, offerings are subject to change at any time.
Entertainment
You’ll see below that various locations have live music during the event. In the marketing for Jollywood Nights, Disney says you can “dance the night away.” I don’t know about you, but dancing outside the comfort of my living room isn’t really my thing. The bands are great, and if you feel inclined to dance, perfect. But in my experience, these areas of the park didn’t really turn into dance floors. Phew.
Holiday Fiesta en la Calle
What: band playing Latin holiday music
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: Commissary Lane
Crowd level: low – Although Commissary Lane is a relatively narrow pathway, crowds were low throughout the night.
Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club
What: band playing postmodern jukebox-style holiday music
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard
Crowd level: high – You have four things happening in this courtyard: Tower of Terror ride exit, photo opportunity, live band on stage, and pop-up bar.
Tip: Walk back to the Twilight Soirée when the band is on a break. It will be less crowded then. Grab a drink at the pop-up bar while the line is short, get situated just in time for the band to return, and enjoy the music with drink in hand.
There’s something reassuring about being in a space before the masses arrive. I bet you arrive early to events at home and work. You’ve learned you’re more comfortable when others join you in your space instead of you inserting yourself into an existing crowd. The same holds true at Disney Parks.
Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby
What: restaurant with event-exclusive menu and live jazz piano music
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: The Hollywood Brown Derby
Crowd level: medium – You may experience some crowds when the restaurant first opens for the night. Once the initial rush subsides and guests are seated, you’ll find typical restaurant crowds.
Note: Tables for Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby are first come, first served at the start of the event. Once capacity is reached, you can join a mobile walk-up list through the My Disney Experience app.
Sunset Seasons Greetings
What: projection and laser show
When: intermittently throughout the night
Where: The Hollywood Tower Hotel (viewed from Sunset Boulevard)
Crowd level: low to medium – Sunset Boulevard is a long street, so guests can spread out while watching the show.
Disney Holidays in Hollywood
What: stage show inspired by vintage Hollywood TV specials
When: 8:45 p.m., 9:45 p.m, 10:45 p.m., and 11:45 p.m.
Where: Theater of the Stars (where Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage normally is)
Crowd level: medium to high – You’ll encounter a long line before the start of each show. As you file in, expect to be seated right next to someone. Later shows may be less crowded.
What's This? Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
What: stage show and sing-along inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas
When: 8:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m., and 11:30 p.m.
Where: Hyperion Theater (where For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration normally is)
Crowd level: medium to high – You’ll encounter a long line before the start of each show. As you file in, expect to be seated right next to someone. Later shows may be less crowded.
Note: This show is technically a sing-along. Audience participation may be a no-go for introverts. Don’t feel pressured to sing along. In my experience, guests were quietly singing along. The place didn’t turn into a Taylor Swift concert or anything. Phew.
Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!
What: nighttime spectacular with fireworks, lasers, lights, projections, and holiday music
When: 12:30 a.m.
Where: in front of the Chinese Theatre/Hollywood Boulevard
Crowd level: low to medium – The Center Stage area in front of the Chinese Theatre can accommodate a large number of guests. You can also find less-crowded spots on the sides.
DJs throughout park
I noticed two DJs, one in Center Stage (in front of Chinese Theatre) and another in front of Pixar Plaza. The one near Pixar Plaza had a second person standing out in front, hyping up guests as they walked by. They encouraged you to dance to the music, etc. I can appreciate the idea, but as an introvert, you may want to avoid.
Characters
After the first night, Disney added additional character meet-and-greets to Jollywood Nights. As an introvert, characters have always been a little awkward for me. I don’t always know what to say or how to interact with them.
Even so, having more characters has a nice effect on crowds. They disperse the guests throughout the park so that the most popular areas are less congested.
If characters are your jam, here is who you can meet.
Animation Courtyard
- Mickey Mouse
- Minnie Mouse
- Donald Duck
- Daisy Duck
- Goofy
- Pluto
Pixar Plaza
- Edna Mode
- Frozone
Echo Lake
- Max (as Powerline)
- Chip ‘n’ Dale (as Rescue Rangers)
- Phineas and Ferb
Vacation Fun exit
- Duffy
Center Stage (in front of Chinese Theatre)
- Pinocchio
- Jiminy Cricket
- Stitch
Near Muppets*Vision 3D
- Snow White
- Dopey
- Mary Poppins
- Penguin Waiter
Food and Beverages
Devote some time to try the themed, event-exclusive food and beverages! Portion sizes are smaller, but that also means it’s easier to sample a variety of items within a short period of time.
Note: Mobile order is not available during Disney Jollywood Nights.
Twilight Soirée at The Tip Top Club
- The 5th Dimension Royale: Teremana Blanco Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, desert pear, agave nectar, and lime juice topped with Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut and garnished with a dehydrated blood orange wheel
- Twilight Daiquiri: Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, ube, lime juice, and a splash of shimmer
- Sparkling Pomegranate-Apple Cider: Pomegranate-green tea topped with sparkling apple cider and pomegranate seeds
- Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut
The Tip Top Club has two organized lines. When it gets busy, the entrance to join the lines is actually behind the Joffrey’s kiosk, right as you enter the The Hollywood Tower Hotel Courtyard area. A Cast Member is stationed there with a sign directing you back there. This keeps you out of the main crowd in the courtyard. It works really well to alleviate some of the congestion in this area.
Jazzy Holidays at The Hollywood Brown Derby
- Oyster Rockefeller: Spinach foam, shaved parmesan, rocoto pepper relish, and salmon caviar
- Crispy Duck Drumettes: Spicy orange glaze, carrots, and kumquats
- Charcuterie: House-made cured meats and accompaniments, blue cheese mousse, and toasted sourdough
- Shrimp Cocktail: Classic cocktail sauce, citrus pearls, and avocado mousse
- Derby Slider: Bison and pork belly blend, taleggio cheese sauce, and fig stout jam
- Tuna Carpaccio: Mezcal pickled vegetables, salsa macha, and avocado crema
- Pork Belly Bao: Korean BBQ, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette
- Tofu Bao: Seared tofu, cucumber slaw, and soy vinaigrette
- An assortment of classic cocktails, zero-proof and nonalcoholic beverages, wine, and beer
ABC Commissary
- Chicken Empanadas with Street Corn: Chicken empanadas served with a side of street corn salad topped with chili peppers, lime, and cotija cheese
- Yuca con Chicharrón: Fried pork belly, yuca, red pickled onions, and chili pepper-lime seasoning with a yellow pepper aïoli
- Mushroom Taco: Chili-roasted Mixed mushrooms, avocado crema, baby gem lettuce, and garnished with sliced radish (plant based)
- Birria Taco: Shredded short rib and Monterey jack served with beef consommé for dipping
- Tembleque: Coconut rice pudding with caramel rum sauce and cinnamon
- Mexican Hot Cocoa Cheesecake: Spiced chocolate cheesecake on a chocolate cookie base topped with vanilla whipped cream and cocoa powder with a chocolate handle
- Mangonada: Frozen mango beverage with mango-chili pepper-lime sauce and chili pepper-lime seasoning on top (nonalcoholic)
- Zero-Proof Piña Colada: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, coconut, pineapple, and lime
- Oaxaca Old Fashioned: Casa Dragones Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, agave nectar, Mexican chocolate, and orange bitters served over ice garnished with an orange
BaseLine Tap House
- Tuna Ceviche: Marinated ahi tuna, pico de gallo, and avocado cream topped with cilantro
- Charcuterie Cup: Manchego, chorizo, serrano ham, pickled vegetables, olives, and toasted focaccia bread
- Beer Margarita: Blend of Patrón Silver Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, and lime juice topped with Scrimshaw Pilsner over ice
Dockside Diner
- Spicy Pimento-Kimchi Dip: Topped with chives and served with fresh house-made wonton chips
- Roasted Eggplant Dip: Topped with chives and served with warm pita bread (plant based)
- Poutine Tots: Potato barrels topped with gravy, brisket, mozzarella curds, and chives
- Christmas Tree Cookie Stack: Vanilla cookie stack filled with pistachio buttercream, cranberry, and raspberry jam topped with sprinkles and a yellow candy star
- Sandy Claws Hot Cocoa: Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas–inspired dark chocolate hot cocoa topped with cherry whipped cream (nonalcoholic)
- Naughty or Nice: Crown Royal Whisky and ginger mixed with orange, cranberry, and grapefruit juices topped with fresh cranberries
Epic Eats
- Spicy Korean Chicken Funnel Cake: Spicy fried Korean chicken with pickled vegetables served on a mini funnel cake
- Brisket Reuben Funnel Cake: Beef brisket and sauerkraut slaw topped with thousand island dressing and served on a mini funnel cake
- S’mores Funnel Cake: Giant roasted marshmallow with chocolate and marshmallow sauce, topped with chocolate curls and cinnamon cereal and served on a mini funnel cake
- Samuel Adams Winter Lager: Spiced with cinnamon, ginger, and orange peel for a deep flavor and malty finish
Fairfax Fare
- Holiday Turkey Popover: Roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy, cranberry chutney, and chives in a house-made popover
- “Just the Sides” Popover: Macaroni & cheese and savory collard greens with ham topped with cornbread crumbs in a house-made popover
- PB&J Doughnut: Glazed doughnut with creamy peanut butter and grape jelly dipped in dark chocolate topped with crushed house-made salt and vinegar chips
- Kermit’s Frozen Banana Bliss: Frozen banana and white chocolate with caramel swirls topped with matcha whipped cream and sprinkles (nonalcoholic)
- Mistletoe Martini: Tito’s Handmade Vodka and St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur mixed with cranberry juice and topped with fresh cranberries and mint leaves
Note: I observed the longest food line at Fairfax Fare. Even so, it only took 10–15 minutes to get through.
Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction
- Christmas Gertie Cookie: Sugar cookie with mint icing (also available with mint soft-serve)
Market
- Buffalo Chicken Spring Rolls: Fried spring rolls served with a jalapeño-ranch dipping sauce and fried rice noodles
- Frozone’s Snowball Macaroons: Coconut macaroons drizzled with blue vanilla frosting and topped with white snowflake sprinkles
- Spiced Apple Cider: Apple cider and cinnamon with an apple chip garnish (nonalcoholic)
- Zero-Proof Apple Cider: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, apple cider, ANGOSTURA Bitters, and cinnamon topped with an apple chip and cinnamon rim
- In Holiday Fashion: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon, rosemary syrup, cranberry and lime juices, and cinnamon
PizzeRizzo
- Meatball and Polenta: Giant meatball with marinara and creamy cheese polenta
- Olive and Goat Cheese Flatbread: Olive oil–toasted flatbread, creamy goat cheese, rustic olive and tomato spread, balsamic glaze, and lemon watercress
- Antipasto Flatbread: Fresh mozzarella, salami, peperoni, country ham, olives, peppers, onions, pepperoncini, and marinara
- Tiramisu Puff: Sweet and savory with flavors of espresso, chocolate, and a coffee-infused custard and mascarpone cream
- Benvolio Pinot Grigio
- Banfi Chianti Superiore
- Peroni Nastro Azzuro Lager Draft
- Heineken 0.0 Nonalcoholic Lager
The Trolley Car Café
- Ornament Mousse: Dark chocolate-cherry mousse
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
- Tinseltown Tini: Cold brew coffee topped with Kahlúa, Grey Goose Vodka, a hint of light cream, and a dash of whipped cream with cocoa (available at the location near The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror)
- Round ‘Em Up Latte: Blend of espresso, cookie butter syrup, dulce de leche sauce, and milk topped with fluffy whipped cream, playful animal crackers, and festive sprinkles; available hot or iced (nonalcoholic; available at the location in Toy Story Land)
Outdoor vending locations
- Gingerbread Bites (plant based)
Bar locations
- Zero-Proof Gingerbread Spritzer: Lyre’s Spiced Cane Spirit, gingerbread syrup, and club soda garnished with a gingerbread bite
- Sugar Cookie Martini: Stoli Vanil Vodka, Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, and Disaronno Originale Liqueur mixed with milk and sugar in a sprinkle-rimmed glass with a sugar cookie garnish
Attractions
With everything else going on during the night, you’ll find attraction wait times to be lower than a regular park day. Below are the attractions open during the event.
Toy Story Land
- Alien Swirling Saucers
- Slinky Dog Dash
- Toy Story Mania!
Sunset Boulevard
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
Hollywood Boulevard
- Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Note: Rise of the Resistance is only available through a virtual queue during Disney Jollywood Nights. You can request to join the queue at 8 p.m. using the My Disney Experience app, and you do not need to be inside the park to join.
Echo Lake
- Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Merchandise
You can purchase an event T-shirt at three locations:
- Mickey’s of Hollywood
- Celebrity 5 & 10
- Once Upon a Time
Photo opportunities
Disney PhotoPass is included in your Disney Jollywood Nights event ticket.
- Magic Shots, including an event-exclusive robotic arm Magic Shot and a camera array Magic Shot (boomerang style)
- PhotoPass Lens
- PhotoPass Video Memories
Note: It may take a day for all your photos to show up within the My Disney Experience app. You may find watermarks on any photos taken before the official start of the event (8:30 p.m.) However, your complimentary PhotoPass starts as early as 4 p.m. Disney has advised guests to give it a day, and those watermarks should be removed.
New in-park character named Ollie
Did you know Disney Jollywood Nights unveiled a brand-new in-park character? His name is Ollie, a gingerbread cookie who baked his dreams come true!
“There once was a cookie named Ollie
Who made his way west on a trolley
With oven-baked gleam, he followed his dream
And made all of Tinseltown jolly!”
Although you can’t actually meet him during the event, you can spot references to him throughout the park. With your keen introvert eye, you can turn this into a scavenger hunt of sorts.
An introvert’s guide to 2023 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (MVMCP) is a separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom. Your ticket grants you eight hours inside the park (five hours of actual party time), with all kinds of seasonal offerings:
- complimentary holiday treats
- entertainment including fireworks, a parade, stage shows, live music, and dance parties
- snow on Main Street, U.S.A.
- characters
- attractions
- food and beverages
- merchandise
- photo opportunities
This introvert’s guide to 2023 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will prepare you for the event so you’ll know what to expect, how to deal with the crowds, and ways to get the most out of the event.
How it works
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights from November 9 through December 22, 2023.
Note: At the time of this writing (11/11/23), 40 percent of the nights are sold out.
It’s hard to predict which nights will sell out (or in other words, be the most crowded), but for a potentially less crowded party, I’d suggest a Tuesday night in November.
Some guests like picking a night in December because the weather is cooler and it feels more like the holidays since it’s closer to the actual holidays.
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $159 to $199 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $149 to $189 for children (ages 3 to 9), depending on the night.
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket on select nights.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. They’ll link with your account so you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get into the park.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get into the park.)
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
Check in
Event hours go from 7 p.m. until midnight. But your ticket actually gets you into Magic Kingdom at 4 p.m., so you have eight hours in the park.
Take it easy between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. You don’t want an introvert hangover before the party even starts!
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. This area is typically roped off from the left side where guests with regular park tickets may enter until the party officially begins.
In my experience, guests start queuing up outside the park around 3 p.m. So that you can be at the front of this long line of people, I would be at the gate at this time. If you don’t get there early, I’d let the rush subside and be at the gate around 5 p.m.
Have a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan because five hours of party time is not enough time to do it all. We’ll go over all the party offerings so you can prioritize your list and know what’s best for you as a D•Introvert.
You know your limits, but at the very least, I recommend you do these things:
- Visit all five of the treat locations
- Ride Space Mountain and Tomorrowland Speedway (special party versions)
- Watch the fireworks
- Watch the parade
This was our plan for the fireworks and parade:
- Around 9:15 p.m. we grabbed a Peppermint Brownie Sundae from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor.
- We took this sundae halfway down Main Street, U.S.A., and plopped down on the curb. We wanted more time on Main Street because that’s where it’s most festive.
- At 10 p.m. we stood up to watch the fireworks. The crowds back here are much lighter than in the hub area in front of Cinderella Castle.
- We sat back down on the curb just in time for the “snow” to fall on Main Street. Lots of guests exit after the fireworks. (It’s pretty satisfying to watch the masses leave.)
- We remained patient and hung out on the curb a while longer because we’ve secured a prime spot for the second parade at 11 p.m. It’s also a seated spot, which is perfect when you’ve been standing and walking around all night. Note: Although the second parade starts at 11 p.m., it’s closer to 11:20 p.m. by the time it reaches this point on Main Street. We then experienced more “snow” as part of the parade.
Be aware of the snowball dance party that occurs before the parade reaches you. Performers sing and dance as a way to pep up the crowd. They have large beach balls that look like snowballs, which they throw back and forth with the crowd. They encourage you to clap along with the music and do the wave. It’s cute and all, but know there is some mild audience participation.
Crowds
Between 4 p.m and 6 p.m., you’ll find day guests and party guests in the park, so it may feel crowded. Crowds tend to thin out, though, the closer you get to 6 p.m. Although they limit the number of tickets sold, you’ll still experience a crowded park during MVMCP. You’ll find a reprieve, though, in the last hour from 11 p.m. until midnight.
This is not to say that the whole park is crowded. Because most of the popular festive offerings take place on either Man Street, U.S.A. or in the hub area in front of Cinderella Castle, you’ll find other areas of the park much less crowded.
Complimentary holiday treats
Complimentary cookies and festive drinks are available at various locations throughout the park. Offerings are subject to change, but I’ve seen gingerbread, snickerdoodle, red velvet, sugar, and chocolate chip cookies. For drinks, I’ve seen hot cocoa, eggnog, and apple cider. Locations are marked on your map with a candy cane icon. You can also find them in the My Disney Experience app.
Tip: Within the app, just search for treat.
Even without the map, you can easily stumble upon the locations by looking for the lit-up, inflatable candy cane markers (see below).
These are the five holiday treat locations.
Adventureland
- Tortuga Tavern
Liberty Square
- Columbia Harbour House
Fantasyland
- Pinocchio Village Haus
Tomorrowland
- Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- The Lunching Pad
Note: All locations have an allergy-friendly cookie available upon request.
Entertainment
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show
- skies above Cinderella Castle
- 10 p.m.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
- begins in Frontierland (see map for full route)
- 8:30 p.m.
- 11 p.m.
Opt for the later parade. The crowds will be lighter. The most crowded part of the parade route is along Main Street, U.S.A. But I think it’s worth it for the “snowfall.”
During the first parade, focus on other things like characters, rides, or food.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration
(stage show)
- Castle Forecourt Stage
- 7:40 p.m., 9:25 p.m., 10:35 p.m., and 11:55 p.m.
Frozen Holiday Surprise (stage show)
- Castle Forecourt Stage
- 6:15 p.m.
- 8:15 p.m.
The first Frozen Holiday Surprise show is technically before the party starts, but remember you can enter the park as early as 4 p.m. If this show is on your to-do list, I would watch it at 6:15 p.m. That way you have more time during the party. And if you’re an anxious D•Introvert like me, you’ll feel better knowing you have one less thing to worry about.
The Collective 5ive (live music)
- Rockettower Plaza Stage
- 7 p.m.–midnight (intermittently)
Reindeer Wranglers (live music)
- Frontierland – Country Bear Jamboree
- 7:15 p.m., 8:05 p.m., 9:30 p.m., and 11:40 p.m.
Disney Junior Jingle Jam (dance party)
- Tomorrowland – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- 7 p.m.–midnight
Club Tinsel (dance party)
- Tomorrowland – Rockettower Plaza Stage
- 7 p.m.–midnight
The two dance parties may be intense for your introverted little ones. Disney Junior Jingle Jam is in more of a confined indoor space, whereas Club Tinsel is outside.
Characters
Most character encounters happen in traditional meet-and-greet locations where you seek them out, but a few characters are free roaming (noted below). Make note if you’re concerned about a potential surprise interaction.
Main Street, U.S.A.
- Sally & Jack Skellington (as Sandy Claws) – Town Square Theater
Note: These two are popular and start meeting guests around 4:30 p.m.
- Mickey Mouse – Town Square Theater
- Mary Poppins – Town Square Theater
- Toy Soldiers – Market Street
Note: Market Street is only open until 8 p.m.
Adventureland
- Stitch – Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
- Captain Jack Sparrow – near Pirates of the Caribbean
- Abu and Aladdin – Agrabah Bazaar
- Genie and Jasmine – Agrabah Bazaar
- Peter Pan (roaming)
Frontierland
- Country Bears – near Country Bear Jamboree (roaming)
Liberty Square
- Santa Claus – behind Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe
Note: Santa doesn’t meet guests during the two parade times.
- Tiana and Naveen – near Liberty Square Riverboat Landing (dock)
Fantasyland
- Ariel and Prince Eric – near Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
- Belle – Enchanted Tales with Belle
- Cinderella and Prince Charming – near Pinocchio Village Haus restrooms
- Rapunzel and Flynn Rider – near Pinocchio Village Haus restrooms
- Snow White and The Prince – near Pinocchio Village Haus restrooms
- Aurora and Prince Phillip – near Pinocchio Village Haus restrooms
- Tigger, Pooh, Piglet, and Eeyore – near The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Note: Pooh and friends start meeting guests around 6:30 p.m.
- Alice and The White Rabbit – near Mad Tea Party
- Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum – near Mad Tea Party
- Mirabel – Fairytale Garden
Storybook Circus
- Seven Dwarfs – Pete’s Silly Sideshow
Note: They start meeting guests around 6:30 p.m.
- Donald Duck and Scrooge McDuck – Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Daisy Duck and Minnie Mouse – Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Goofy (as Santa Goofy) – Calliope Tent
Tomorrowland
- Timon – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Vampirina – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Doc McStuffins – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Fancy Nancy – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Judy Hopps – Rockettower Plaza Stage (dance party)
- Nick Wilde – Rockettower Plaza Stage (dance party)
- Chip ‘n’ Dale – Rockettower Plaza Stage (dance party)
Attractions
With everything else going on during the party, you’ll find attraction wait times to be lower than a regular park day. That also means the areas surrounding the attractions may be less crowded.
Below are the attractions open during the event, including five that have a “holiday twist” (noted as special party version).
Adventureland
- Jingle Cruise (special party version)
Note: The holiday twist on Jungle Cruise is available the entire holiday season, not just during the event).
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Swiss Family Treehouse
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Frontierland
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Liberty Square
- Haunted Mansion
Fantasyland
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- “it’s a small world”
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Mad Tea Party (special party version)
- Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Storybook Circus
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- The Barnstormer
Tomorrowland
- Space Mountain (special party version)
Space Mountain is a popular attraction during the event. For a lower wait time, here are two options:
- Experience it in the last hour of the party (11 p.m.–midnight).
- Head over between 6:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. You’ll queue up and wait for the day guests to clear out. Then you’ll be one of the first guests to experience the switchover to the holiday version.
- Tomorrowland Speedway (special party version)
Wait to ride until it's dark.
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
Make sure to ride this once the party starts (and before since it’s the perfect D•Introvert attraction). PeopleMover offers a unique perspective of the special party version of Space Mountain.
- Astro Orbiter
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor (special party version)
- TRON Lightcycle / Run
TRON Lightcycle / Run
TRON Lightcycle / Run is only available through a virtual queue during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. You can request to join the queue at 6 p.m., and you do not need to be inside the park to join.
Even with the virtual queue, you may have to wait. In my experience, I’ve waited close to 20 minutes. Keep this in mind if it’s almost fireworks time.
Specialty Food and Beverages
Don’t forget to try some themed food and beverages! Some items below are available throughout the season (November 11 through December 31), while others are only available during the party (noted as party exclusive).
If you’re a foodie, I’d keep this in mind as you’re looking for snacks between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. (not party exclusive) and then again from 7 p.m. until midnight (party exclusive).
Mobile order is available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. I highly recommend it, party or not. You don’t have the pressure of ordering your food with a Cast Member. You can put in your order on your own time and even select a future arrival window. You’ll also avoid long ordering lines. During MVMCP, three locations participate:
- Casey’s Corner
- Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party
For a separate price, you can attend a dessert party, which includes desserts, drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic), and a spot in a reserved fireworks viewing area.
One offers fireworks viewing from the Plaza Garden area. The other is from a seated area at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. Prices range from $109 to $119 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $59 to $75 for children (ages 3 to 9).
Although I might recommend a dessert party for a regular park day, during MVMCP I would skip it. It takes precious time out of your night. You’ll want as much time as you can to check out the seasonal, party-exclusive offerings.
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
- Reindeer Chow Sundae (NEW): Chocolate soft-serve, pretzels, cereal, M&M’s chocolate candies, and hot fudge
- Lump of Coal in Your Stocking (NEW): Cookies ‘n’ cream milkshake topped with whipped cream, cookies ‘n’ cream crumbles, and a chocolate doughnut hole (party exclusive)
Casey’s Corner
- Candy Cane Tart (NEW): Chocolate tart filled with peppermint ganache and topped with festive meringue (party exclusive)
Cheshire Café
- Peppermint Éclair (NEW): Éclair filled with white chocolate peppermint mousse and topped with peppermint mousse and chocolate pieces
Note: This restaurant closes at 3 p.m. on party nights.
Columbia Harbour House
- Maple-Mustard Glazed Salmon (NEW): Salmon served with green beans and rice
Cool Ship
- Magic Holiday Tree (NEW): Coconut, pecans, and M&M’s chocolate candies on a graham cracker crust (party exclusive)
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- Holiday Pot Roast Melt (NEW): Slow-cooked beef on thick toast with cheddar and provolone cheese and beef gravy (party exclusive)
- Holiday Turkey Burger (NEW): Turkey burger topped with traditional stuffing, provolone cheese, and cranberry chutney on a brioche bun (party exclusive)
- Christmas Cookie Cake (NEW): Christmas cookie cake roll with buttercream and topped with holiday sprinkles (party exclusive)
The Friar’s Nook
- Holiday Ham-Fried Pie (NEW): Flaky pastry filled with baked ham, candied sweet potatoes, and spiced pecans and served with pineapple glaze (party exclusive)
- Italian Beef Tots (NEW): Tots covered in slow-cooked beef, cheese curds, zesty giardiniera, and pot roast gravy (party exclusive)
- Peppermint Snowman (NEW): Chocolate brownie topped with cookies ‘n’ cream peppermint mousse (party exclusive)
- Winter Milkshake (NEW): Creamy coconut milk shake topped with whipped cream, toasted coconut, cinnamon, and crisp pearls (party exclusive)
Golden Oak Outpost
- Orange Gingerbread Shake (NEW): Orange cream slushy layered with gingerbread cookie crumbles and topped with whipped cream and gingerbread spice (party exclusive)
- Gingerbread Cake (NEW): Cake layered with cream cheese frosting and dulce de leche ganache topped with a gingerbread man chocolate piece (party exclusive)
Main Street Bakery
- Minnie-Shaped Cinnamon Roll: Cinnamon roll topped with red icing, holiday sprinkles, and a chocolate bow
- Letter to Santa (NEW): Flourless chocolate cake, hot cocoa mousse, and marshmallows topped with chocolate pieces (party exclusive)
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café
- Chicken Tamale: Tamale served “Christmas style” with mild red chile and green chile-pumpkin seed sauces, cilantro rice, pinto beans, and queso fresco (party exclusive)
- Chocolate Eggnog Reindeer (NEW): Chocolate tart topped with eggnog mousse and chocolate antlers (party exclusive)
- Orange-Cranberry Pineapple Punch (NEW): Punch with a hint of “smoke” from the fireplace (party exclusive)
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
- Peppermint Brownie Sundae: Peppermint ice cream, hot fudge, and candy cane sprinkles served on a brownie
Sleepy Hollow
- Holiday Waffle Sundae (NEW): House-made red velvet waffle topped with M&M’s chocolate candies, peppermint ice cream, and hot fudge (party exclusive)
- Milk and Cookies for Santa (NEW): Brown sugar cookie cake topped with chocolate chip cookie dough mousse, milk mousse, and chocolate chip cookies (party exclusive)
Storybook Treats
- Sugar Plum Sundae (NEW): Sugar plum soft-serve atop sugar cookie crumbs and topped with whipped cream, crisp pearls, and cotton candy (party exclusive)
Sunshine Tree Terrace
- Santa’s Belt Buckle (NEW): Pistachio mousse with a dark chocolate truffle center and a chocolate buckle (party exclusive)
- Cranberry Citrus Float with Orange-Vanilla Soft-Serve Twist (NEW): Orange-vanilla soft-serve twist with Winter-Spiced Cranberry Sprite and fruity boba pearls
Outdoor vending locations near Cinderella Castle
- Red Velvet Wreath: Doughnut topped with buttercream and holiday sprinkles
- Hot Cocoa Churro (NEW): Churro rolled in hot cocoa powder and topped with marshmallows and peppermint candy pieces
Merchandise
You can purchase party-specific merchandise from Star Traders in Tomorrowland and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A.
Photo opportunities
PhotoPass
You can get your picture taken by PhotoPass photographers with Magic Shots and holiday props (see map for locations). Be aware this may require you to make poses or hold props in front of the photographer. Awkward.
Photo frames
You can take your picture inside interactive photo frames that recreate scenes from various Disney stories (see map for locations).
Best Animal Kingdom quick-service restaurant for introverts
Introversion Insight:
Crowded places can be overstimulating for introverts. Crowded eating establishments add a whole other layer of anxiety. (I still get anxious thinking about the school cafeteria.) Introversion and anxiety tend to be two peas in a pod. Being prepared and knowing how to navigate these situations can help you find your inner peas.
If you’re new around here, a quick-service restaurant at the parks is basically a fast-food or counter-service restaurant. A table-service restaurant is more of a sit-down location with a server. Table service is best for introverts because they seat you, they bring your food to you, and they clean up after you. Easy peasy. But it generally requires a reservation which, depending on the restaurant and time of year, may be hard to secure. And even if you make one, they can take up a good chunk of your park day. No worries, though. You have plenty of quick-service options.
But before we dive in, what’s the first rule of Disney dining (fight club)?! Avoid the lunch and dinnertime rush. We want to avoid the masses of hangry guests.
Okay, so what makes a quick-service restaurant good for introverts?
Plenty of seating
There’s nothing worse than having your tray of food, carefully balancing everything, and trying to find a place to sit. It feels like all eyes are on you, am I right? We need lots of seating so we don’t have to trek too far or hunt too long.
Different types of seating
Booths, corner tables, and spots along the perimeter are all great for introverts. We want to avoid places with just a bunch of tables close together in the center of a room.
Easy to navigate
Thankfully, most Disney Parks restaurants are organized and set up in a way that’s easy to navigate. Things we pay attention to: where to order, pick up food, and grab utensils, condiments, and napkins. Tip: Always do mobile order if it’s available. (Since the pandemic, that seems to be the company’s preference anyway.) You’ll avoid the ordering line, and the most talking you’ll have to do is telling them your order number at pickup.
Flame Tree Barbecue, home of the saucy views
So here it is. The best Animal Kingdom quick-service restaurant for introverts is... Flame Tree Barbecue.
The atmosphere
Flame Tree is pleasantly deceiving. From the outside, it doesn’t look like much. You see a bunch of ordering windows, but you don’t realize how far back the restaurant goes. It opens up into a large outdoor space—complete with trails leading to tucked-away pavilions, saucy views of the river and Expedition Everest, and a beautiful water feature that has no business being in a quick-service restaurant (but it does because it’s Animal Kingdom).
Tip: Wander a bit and check out the different animal details within each of the pavilions.
This place truly has a relaxing vibe, a welcome change from the narrow and sometimes crowded pathways in Animal Kingdom. The tables near the river are the most popular but offer the best views if you ask me.
Note: Flame Tree is an outdoor restaurant, so keep this in mind if it’s a really hot day.
The seating
This restaurant is big. This means you’ll be able to find an empty table quickly and easily. Most of the tables are grouped in these pavilions, which offer cover from the rain and sun. If you reach one pavilion and it’s crowded, just keep wandering. You have lots of tucked-away pavilions to choose from, emphasis on the tucked-away part. Even though this restaurant has a high capacity, you wouldn’t know it because people are spread out into these various areas.
The logistics
Ordering is done at the front of the restaurant, with pickup windows all in a row. Mobile order is available—and highly encouraged by the Cast Members—with those pickup windows clearly marked. You’ll find condiments, utensils, and napkins at the front, but some of the pavilions have them too. Trash cans are throughout for when you’re ready to dump your tray.
With such a relaxing atmosphere and multiple secluded seating areas, Flame Tree Barbecue is my pick for the best quick-service restaurant for introverts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I hope you’ll check it out on your next visit and let me know if you agree!
Flame Tree Barbecue
Type: Quick service
Food options: Traditional barbecue; loaded mac & cheese; loaded fries; sandwich, salad, and plant-based items
Location: Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Price: $20 and under
Hours: 10:30 a.m. – park close (may vary)
Mobile order: Yes
Menu: Lunch and dinner
More introvert-friendly restaurants
An introvert’s escape: Blue Launch boat crawl in Magic Kingdom Resort area
Introversion Insight:
It’s inevitable that introverts will find themselves in busy places with crowds. And sometimes they voluntarily put themselves in these places to have fun or see something new. To avoid an introvert hangover, though, it’s important to find ways to recharge—away from the action.
You’ve just watched the 3 o’clock parade at Magic Kingdom. Are you starting to feel tired, physically and mentally? Here’s a way to recharge so that you’ll make it through the whole park day.
(And if you’re just having a Resort day or wanting a new way to experience the parks as a local, this is for you as well.)
Hop on a boat and explore three Disney Resorts!
Stop 1: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Step 1: Hobble your way to the Magic Kingdom exit and make a left. You’ll follow a path and cross the street to reach the Contemporary.
Note: If you’re a local and not visiting the park, you may find it difficult to park at the Contemporary without a stay or dining reservation. I suggest parking at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and making that Resort your first stop in this boat crawl.
Step 2: Grab a spot at the Steakhouse 71 lounge or bar.
After entering the Contemporary, make a left and walk past the check-in area. Steakhouse 71 will be on your left. The lounge and bar don’t require a reservation, so just ask the host if there’s room. You’ll find tables and chairs on the right, which are part of the lounge, and then traditional bar seating at the bar itself.
Tip: Opt for the lounge. I find that if I sit at the bar, the bartender is more likely to engage in small talk.
My favorite drink?
Heron Gimlet – Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Chartreuse Green Liqueur, Seedlip Garden, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, and Lemonade
Stop 2: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Step 3: Hop on a boat to Wilderness Lodge.
Once you exit Steakhouse 71, make a left out the back of the Resort. The boat dock is straight out from there.
Note: You’ll be taking what’s called the Blue Launch (or Flag) route. Interestingly enough, the signs at the Contemporary’s dock don’t say it’s the Blue Launch route. Just look for the sign that says, “Boat to Wilderness Lodge.” It will be on the left. The boat itself also has a blue flag—hence the route name.
Step 4: Grab a spot at Geyser Point Bar & Grill.
Once you disembark, head left, taking the path near the water. You’ll pass the pool area and, if you’re lucky, catch a geyser going off on the left. Geyser Point doesn’t require a reservation, but you can join the walk-up list in the My Disney Experience app as you get closer to the restaurant. If you don’t use the app, you can walk right up and put your name down.
My favorite drink?
Seasonal margarita flight – It’s not typically on the menu, so be sure to ask if they have one.
Stop 3: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Step 5: Hop on a boat to Fort Wilderness.
You’ll head back to the same dock to board the boat to your final spot. Look for the sign for the Blue Flag route (right side).
Step 6: Grab a spot at Crockett’s Tavern.
Once you go ashore, follow the path past the beach area. The first building you’ll encounter on your right is Crockett’s Tavern. Once again, no reservation is needed. You can seat yourself at a table, or you can get drinks or food items to go from the pickup window. If you opt for to-go items, walk around the building and sit in the rocking chairs that face the water.
My favorite drink?
Meadows Cup – Pimm’s No. 1 Liqueur Cup, Hendrick’s Gin, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, and Strawberry
Step 7: Hop on a boat back to the Contemporary.
You’ll head back to the same dock to return to your starting point. Look for the sign for the Blue Flag route (right side).
You’ve now done the loop! I hope you’re feeling recharged (and maybe a little buzzed). Time to finish out your magical evening at Magic Kingdom.
An introvert’s escape
The Blue Launch boat crawl is fun for all, but I think it’s especially great for D•Introverts who need a reset from the hustle and bustle that is Magic Kingdom.
- I chose these lounge locations because they’re close to the boat docks. There’s less of a chance of getting lost this way!
- If you imbibe, liquid extroversion is always a nice option, especially since Magic Kingdom is mostly a dry park.
- Boat transportation can be relaxing and recharging. Just being on the water helps.
Blue Launch boat crawl
Route: Magic Kingdom Resort area with stops at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (in that order typically)
Time required: 2–3 hours
(depending on how long you stay at each stop)
Operating hours: 3 p.m.–10:45 p.m.
An introvert’s guide to 2023 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
Introversion Insight:
Put an introvert in a new, busy, and extroverted environment. How do they fare? It’s natural for them to be quiet, introspective, intimidated, and maybe even a little self-conscious. But with some planning and knowing what to expect (and knowing they’re doing something they’ll enjoy), they can have a pleasant experience.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom. Your ticket grants you eight hours inside the park (five hours of actual party time), with all kinds of seasonal offerings:
- trick-or-treating in Halloween costumes
- entertainment including fireworks, a parade, a stage show, live music, and dance parties
- characters
- attractions
- food and beverages
- merchandise
- photo opportunities
This introvert’s guide to 2023 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will prepare you for the event so you’ll know what to expect, how to deal with the crowds, and how to get the most out of the event.
How it works
Pick your night
The event takes place on select nights from August 11 through November 1, 2023.
I used to recommend the earlier parties in August and September because they were less crowded; however, it seems like party nights sell out no matter what now. I now recommend picking a night in October. You’ll have less rain and cooler temps, and it will feel more festive the closer you get to Halloween.
Buy your ticket
Prices range from $109 to $199 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $99 to $189 for children (ages 3 to 9), depending on the night.
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket on select nights.
Tickets can be purchased online and in the My Disney Experience app. They’ll link with your account so you can use your MagicBand or MagicMobile to get into the park.
(If you don’t want to use a MagicBand or MagicMobile, you’ll need to go to a ticket window where they’ll issue a physical card to you. The purchase confirmation email with barcode can’t be used to get into the park.)
Note: At the time of this writing, all nights are sold out except November 1.
On a related note, you don’t need to make a park pass reservation for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Check in
Event hours go from 7 p.m. until midnight. But your ticket actually gets you into Magic Kingdom at 4 p.m., so you have eight hours in the park.
Check-in takes place at the park’s main entrance on the right side. This area is typically roped off from the left side where guests with regular park tickets may enter until the party officially begins.
In my experience, guests start to queue up around 3 p.m. So that you can be at the front of this long line of people, I would be at the gate at this time. If you don’t get there early, I’d let the rush subside and be at the gate around 5 p.m.
A Cast Member will place a wristband on you. Throughout the night you may be asked to show your wristband to go on rides or enter lands. You’ll also receive your trick-or-treat bag and event map.
If you’re already in the park because you’re using a regular park ticket or Annual Pass, you can visit a wristband distribution location inside the park to check in and receive your wristband:
- Tortuga Tavern (Adventureland)
- Fantasy Faire (Fantasyland)
- across from Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor (Tomorrowland)
In my experience, Cast Members at these locations start distributing wristbands at 3:45 p.m. You’ll start to see lines form around 3:15 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Tip: Wait to check in until at least 4:15 p.m. The line should dissipate by then, and you’ll be able to check in right away.
Have a plan
Introverts are planners, so you’re probably already thinking (and overthinking) about what you want to do during the event. You definitely want to have a plan because five hours of party time is not enough time to do it all. We’ll go over all the party offerings so you can prioritize your list and know what’s best for you as a D•Introvert.
At the very least, I recommend you include these three offerings on your list and in this order:
- 10:15 p.m. – Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular (fireworks show)
- 10:45 p.m. – Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular (stage show)
- 11:15 p.m. – Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade
I realize all three may be difficult for introverts. They all involve being in the midst of a crowd. But here’s what to do. Get over to this area by 10 p.m. (marked below):
I like this area because you have a railing (and flower bed) behind you instead of people. This way you’re only surrounded by people in front of you. You may feel more comfortable since you are looking out at the crowd instead of being in the middle of it—and you have the added benefit of leaning against the railing if your feet are tired (which they probably will be).
The other nice thing is you can park yourself here for the fireworks, stage show, and parade. No need to fight the crowds more than once. Grab a snack and settle in!
Note: You may catch the tail end of the 9:15 parade, depending on when you make your way to the area.
Generally speaking, you’ll find the park to be a little less crowded between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. After that point, it really starts to fill in. You’ll find a reprieve again, though, in the last hour from 11 p.m. until midnight, as people filter out after the fireworks.
Do you like to dress up? This is your chance. Also know, though, that if dressing up is not your thing, you won’t be the outsider. Many guests just opt for a Halloween shirt.
Trick-or-Treat Locations
Locations are marked on your map. You can also find them in the My Disney Experience app. You can easily pull up the locations by searching treat (see below).
Even without the map, you can easily stumble upon the locations by looking for the lit-up, inflatable markers (see below).
You’ll find no shortage of candy during the party, but I did notice Cast Members this year are using small scoops instead of their hands to pass out candy. Depending on the scoop, you may receive fewer pieces of candy than when they used to give out handfuls. I also think the trick-or-treat lines are a little slower this year, perhaps because the Cast Member is trying to get a decent scoop of candy. (The candy seems to slide out of the slick scoop. Can you tell I’ve put way too much thought into this?!)
Lucky for you, you have lots of locations to visit.
Main Street, U.S.A.
- Market Street Welcome (only until 8 p.m.)
Adventureland
- Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
You’ll walk through the attraction. It’s not operating during the party.
- Tortuga Tavern
Frontierland
- Tom Sawyer Island Dock
- Country Bear Jamboree
You’ll walk through the attraction. It’s not operating during the party.
Liberty Square
- Columbia Harbour House
Fantasyland
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
Tip: Trick-or-treating goes straight through this attraction. Instead of collecting your candy and leaving out the back, relax and sit down in the air-conditioned theater. It’s the perfect place to recharge. While I was there, they were playing The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.
- Pinocchio Village Haus
- Gaston’s Tavern (tends to be quieter)
- Ariel’s Grotto
Tomorrowland
- Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
You’ll walk through the attraction. It’s not operating during the party.
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
You’ll walk through the attraction. It is operating during the party with a “Halloween twist.” As you may know, you might receive unwanted attention in this attraction with its audience participation element. Even with the special party version, I’d skip and walk straight through after getting your candy.
- Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- TRON Lightcycle / Run (tends to be quieter)
Note: If you have a food allergy, you can pick up a teal-colored treat bag from a Cast Member at any treat location. When you trick-or-treat, they’ll notice your teal bag and give you a token. When you’re all done, you’ll redeem these tokens at one of the two Allergy-Friendly Centers—Chamber of Commerce or Liberty Square Ticket Center—for your treats.
Entertainment
Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular (stage show)
- Castle Forecourt Stage
- August/September: 8:35 p.m., 10:45 p.m., and midnight
- October/November: 7:40 p.m., 8:35 p.m., 10:45 p.m., and midnight
Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade
- begins in Frontierland (see map for full route)
- 9:15 p.m.
- 11:15 p.m.
Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular (fireworks show)
- skies above Cinderella Castle
- 10:15 p.m.
The Cadaver Dans Barbershop Quartet
- Frontierland
- 7 p.m.–10:50 p.m. (intermittently)
Rusty Cutlass (pirate band)
- Adventureland
- 7:15 p.m.–11:50 p.m. (intermittently)
Disney Junior Jam (dance party)
- Tomorrowland – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- 7 p.m.–midnight
Zom-Beatz Bash (dance party)
- Tomorrowland – Rockettower Plaza Stage
- 7 p.m.–midnight
The two dance parties may be intense for your introverted little ones. Disney Junior Jam is in more of a confined indoor space. whereas Zom-Beatz Bash is outside.
Characters
Most character encounters happen in traditional meet-and-greet locations where you seek them out, but a few characters are free roaming (noted below). Make note if you’re concerned about a potential surprise interaction.
Main Street, U.S.A.
- Sally & Jack Skellington – Town Square Theater
- Mickey Mouse – Town Square Theater
Adventureland
- Abu and Aladdin – Agrabah Bazaar
- Genie and Jasmine – Agrabah Bazaar
- Jafar – near The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- Captain Jack Sparrow – near Pirates of the Caribbean
- Powerline Max – across from Pirates of the Caribbean (pop-up dance party)
Frontierland
- Country Bears – near Country Bear Jamboree (roaming)
Liberty Square
- Madame Carlotta, Madame Renatta, and Broome the Butler – The Haunted Mansion
Fantasyland
- Ariel and Prince Eric – near Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid
- Belle – near Enchanted Tales with Belle
- Tigger, Pooh, Piglet, and Eeyore – near The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Alice and Mad Hatter – Mad Tea Party
- Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum – Mad Tea Party
- Queen of Hearts – Mad Tea Party
- Cinderella – Princess Fairytale Hall
- Elena – Princess Fairytale Hall
- Tiana – Princess Fairytale Hall
- Rapunzel – Princess Fairytale Hall
- Drizella and Anastasia – throughout land (roaming)
Storybook Circus
- Seven Dwarfs – Pete’s Silly Sideshow
- Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Donald Duck – Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- Goofy – The Barnstormer
Tomorrowland
- Stitch – the old Stitch’s Great Escape! (near entrance to land)
- Timon – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Vampirina – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Doc McStuffins – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Fancy Nancy – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (dance party)
- Powerline Max – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café and Rockettower Plaza Stage (pop-up dance party)
Attractions
With everything else going on during the party, you’ll find attraction wait times to be lower than a regular park day. That also means the surrounding areas may be less crowded.
Below are the attractions open during the event, including three that have a “Halloween twist” (noted as special party version).
Adventureland
- Jungle Cruise
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Swiss Family Treehouse
Frontierland
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Liberty Square
- Haunted Mansion
Note: Because this attraction has characters in its queue during the party, you may find it more crowded with longer wait times.
Fantasyland
- Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
- “it’s a small world”
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Mad Tea Party (special party version)
- Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Storybook Circus
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- The Barnstormer
Tomorrowland
- Astro Orbiter
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor (special party version)
- Space Mountain (special party version)
- Tomorrowland Speedway
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover
- TRON Lightcycle / Run
TRON Lightcycle / Run
TRON Lightcycle / Run is only available through a virtual queue during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. You can request to join the queue at 6 p.m. in the My Disney Experience app, and you do not need to be inside the park to join.
Specialty Food and Beverages
Don’t forget to try some themed food and beverages! Some items below are available throughout the season (August 11 through November 1), while others are only available during the party (noted as party exclusive).
If you’re a foodie, keep this in mind as you’re looking for snacks between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. (not party exclusive) and then again from 7 p.m. until midnight (party exclusive).
Note: Normally, my top introvert-friendly food tip is to mobile order your food; however, mobile order is not available during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.
Disney's Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party
For a separate price—$114 for adults (ages 10 and up) and $69 for children (ages 3 to 9)—you can attend a dessert party, which includes desserts, drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic), and a spot in a reserved fireworks viewing area.
For other separately ticketed events, I might recommend the dessert party. But for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, I would skip it. It takes precious time out of your night, and although the reserved fireworks viewing area is nice, I’ve always been able to find a decent spot on my own.
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
- Apple Fritter Milkshake: Salted caramel milkshake topped with green apple whipped cream and an apple fritter
Cheshire Café
- MMMummy Treat: Flaky pastry filled with chocolate-hazelnut filling and topped with white icing stripes and sugar eyes
- Queen of Hearts Slushy: Frozen cherry slushy drizzled with black cherry purée and topped with whipped cream and a crown-shaped chocolate piece
- Witches’ Cold Brew: French Vanilla Joffrey’s Coffee Cold Brew topped with pumpkin-spiced foam and Halloween sprinkles
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
- Terrifyin’ Twice-Spiced Chicken Sandwich: Spicy fried chicken breast dipped in hot honey and topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeño poppers, and bacon (party exclusive)
- The Snarling Sub: Meatball sub with spicy marinara, pesto, and pearl mozzarella “teeth” served on a black roll (party exclusive)
- Zombie Fingers: Almond cookie fingers, Key lime pie white chocolate ganache, salted caramel crisp pearls, and sugar eyes (party exclusive)
- River Styx Elixir: Kiwi lemonade with luster dust (party exclusive)
The Friar’s Nook
- Pain and Panic Brat: Bratwurst, sweet and spicy onion relish, and sriracha mustard (party exclusive)
- Pain and Panic Loaded Tots: Tots topped with sweet and spicy onion relish, sriracha mustard, and crumbled bratwurst (party exclusive)
- Buffalo Chicken Hand Pie: Hand pie with spicy ranch drizzle and blue cheese powder (party exclusive)
Golden Oak Outpost
- Tombstone Tart: Flaky pastry filled with strawberry-jalapeño jam and topped with sprinkles and sugar spiders
- Loaded Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries tossed in cinnamon sugar and topped with marshmallow cream, butterscotch chips, and toffee pieces (party exclusive)
Main Street Bakery
- Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll: Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll topped with orange frosting and sprinkles
- Minnie-shaped Pumpkin Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin coffee mousse topped with a white chocolate candy corn bow (party exclusive)
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café
- Cajun Burger: Cajun-spiced all-beef patty topped with fried green tomato, Cajun Andouille dip, and Creole remoulade served on a black bun (party exclusive)
- Bowl of Bones: Bone-in piggy wings fried with fresh jalapeños tossed in Coca-Cola Cherry barbecue sauce (party exclusive)
- Candy Corn Milkshake: Sweet corn soft-serve topped with whipped cream and sweet potato corn bread nuggets (party exclusive)
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
- Apple Fritter Sundae: Apple fritters topped with choice of ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles (party exclusive)
- Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich: Cookies topped with sprinkles with choice of ice cream
Sleepy Hollow
- Char Siu Chicken Wings: Whole chicken wings glazed in char siu and topped with chili threads and garlic (party exclusive)
- Headless Horseman Cupcake: Spicy cheese-flavored cupcake with lime filling topped with cream cheese buttercream, spicy cheese-flavored snacks, and a chocolate piece (party exclusive)
- Cinnamon Funnel Cake: Funnel cake topped with pumpkin ice cream, drizzled with pumpkin spiced caramel and topped with butterscotch chips (party exclusive)
Storybook Treats
- Hades Cone: DOLE Whip mango and habanero soft-serve topped with blue raspberry shell and chili-lime seasoning (party exclusive)
Sunshine Tree Terrace
- Tropical Graveyard: Mango mousse and sour tropical gelatin topped with cookie crumbles, gummy worm, sprinkles, and a tombstone chocolate piece (party exclusive)
Churro cart near Cinderella Castle
- Not-So-Poison Apple Churro: Churro rolled in green apple sugar, topped with SNICKERS bar pieces and drizzled with caramel sauce
- Jack Pop: Chocolate fudge brownie with marshmallow filling and topped with a Jack chocolate piece (party exclusive)
- Sally Pop: Yellow pop with raspberry filling topped with a Sally chocolate piece (party exclusive)
Outdoor vending cart near The Haunted Mansion
- Skull Brownie: Mexican-spiced chocolate brownie with dulce de leche filling and sugar eyes (party exclusive)
This was a surprise hit for me! If you like cinnamon candy and brownies, you’ll love it.
Merchandise
You can purchase party-specific merchandise from Star Traders in Tomorrowland and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A.
Photo opportunities
PhotoPass
You can get your picture taken by PhotoPass photographers with Magic Shots and Halloween props (see map for locations). Be aware this may require you to make poses or hold props in front of the photographer. Awkward.
Photo frames
You can take your picture inside interactive photo frames that recreate scenes from various Disney stories (see map for locations).
Need a quiet indoor spot at EPCOT? Take a gallery stroll!
Introversion Insight:
Susan Cain wrote one of the best books about introversion called Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking. In it she talks about creating “restorative niches” in your life. These are places you go when you want to return to your true self. In our noisy, extroverted world, we’ve learned how to act more extroverted and get out of our comfort zones—but only if we have the accompanying restorative niches to balance it all out.
Florida can get hot, especially in the summer. I would never tell you not to visit Walt Disney World, but if there’s a time I’d highly discourage you from visiting, it’s in the summer. It’s toasty. But magic can still be found in the sunscreen you’re sweating into your eyeballs.
These restorative niches Susan Cain wrote about—they can be quiet spots, but maybe just as important, they are cool spots. Never underestimate the recharging power of air-conditioning.
Sure, you can find AC if you want to go on Soarin’ Around the World, watch Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360, dine at Connections Eatery, or get in line to meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus. But what if you just want a quiet spot with AC without rides, shows, restaurants, or characters?
Take a gallery stroll!
Morocco: Gallery of Arts and History
- “Race Against the Sun: Ancient Technique to Modern Competition” – exhibit showcasing life and events in the Sahara
- Limited benches
Japan: Bijutsu-kan Gallery
- “Kawaii: Japan’s Cute Culture” – items representing the kawaii pop-culture aesthetic
- Limited benches
China: House of the Whispering Willows
- Costumes, drawing, photos, and artwork of the Shanghai Disney Resort
- One highly coveted bench near the exit
- Additional benches if you walk through to the Reflections of China side
Norway: Stave Church Gallery
- Artifacts and exhibit about the Vikings
- Small, cozy space
- Standing room only
Honorable mention – Mexico: Folk Art Gallery
- “Remember Me!” – La Celebración del Día de Muertos” – exhibit with art from Mexican artists inspired by Disney•Pixar’s Coco
- Standing room only
Note: This tends to be a high-traffic area, so it’s not necessarily a quiet spot.
Need a quiet spot (with AC!) at Disney's Hollywood Studios?