Do we need Fantasmic Dinner package in October?

[busymomma123]

We are planning on going 10/18 - 10/24. According to the Disney website MGM will be closing at 7:30 during those times except for EMH. Does that mean Fantasmic wont start until 7:30 or does it start before then? Also with crowds hopefully somewhat slower do we still need to get a FDP? We went last August during free dining, and didn't get a FDP. So waited for about an hour and a half to make sure we would get seats for the show. It wasn't fun with 6 5 and 1 year olds. Plus I am not too crazy about some of the dinner packages with the Fantasmic plan. We don't really care for Mama Melrose. Last August there wasn't many good reviews of Hollywood and Vine. Decisions Decisions

 

[HM]

I've never gotten the package and have been able to view the show without a huge wait everytime but once. In October, I'd think you'd be fine. No use shelling out money for something you don't want, just too see a free show.