Fantasmic dessert buffet vs halloween party

[underminer]

We are planning a trip to DLR in October and will have a 3 day hopper pass. We are also considering doing either a fantasmic dessert buffet or mickeys Halloween party. With a family of 5 doing both is just too expensive. We have not done either before and we don't get to come to DL very often (once every 3 years or so). We have 3 boys: 15, 12, and 7. I don't know if they really want to do the whole dress up thing either. Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[ParkHopper1]

I am the biggest fan of the Fantasmic Dessert show...but in your case, you would without a doubt get much more bang for your buck with the Halloween party. The dessert show is great if budget is not a driving factor in your trip, you don't wanna deal with the crowds or just like to be catered to...but I would think your boys would get muck more enjoyment outta the Halloween party.

 

[longtimedisneylurker]

I agree with PP and would pick the Halloween party. I haven't been, but my brother and his family have. They really enjoyed the exclusive fireworks and the little parade/cavalcade and the Halloween party atmosphere. My brother said that maybe about half the people there were dressed up, so your boys don't have to dress in costume to enjoy the event.

Another thing to consider regarding bang for your buck...depending on how long you will be in the area, you may want to use your Halloween party ticket as a fourth partial day. I believe you can enter the park 3 hours before the party start time when day guests are still present. You could spend the first part of the day doing something else, resting, swimming, visiting another area attraction, then go to Disneyland for the afternoon and evening of the party.

 

[KAT4DISNEY]

Halloween party.

And nobody has to dress up so no worries there.

 

[JadeDarkstar]

my votes for the Halloween party

 

[JeannieNM]

We've done both and hands down the Halloween party!

 

[Crazy4Disney06]

We did the Halloween Party at DL a few years back and had a blast! No one is required to dress up, however it does add to the festivities if you do!

 

[sweethannah]

I'm doing the Halloween party myself - I was thinking about doing the F! as well but it's a little spendy.

For your case for the cost of the MHP you basically get a full day in the Park plus the party which imo, is money very well spent.

 

[underminer]

Thanks so much for your input! I may put it to a family vote. We had considered using our 4th day for a trip to universal studios but we may do the beach and Halloween party instead.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

Don't worry about dressing up for the party. Lots of people wear matching sports jerseys or favorite character t-shirts. Simple things can work quite well. But it certainly is a lot of fun watching the more elaborate costumes!

 

[Disney Dreams]

I just wanted to mention that Fantasmic! Dessert is not a buffet. It is a dessert box (plenty of food) and drinks provided via servers.

- Dreams

 

[Happy 2 B Me]

You can enter DL almost 3 hours before the Halloween party if that helps with ticket budgeting. You could wait and only buy a 2 day park hopper instead of three days. My husband got a 2 day hopper at the resort we were staying at 3 years ago. I am not sure you can buy the 2 day ones on line.

The Halloween party lasts over 5 hours--- they give out mega candy and good treats to. juice boxes, apple slices packaged, raisin boxes, and packaged carrot and vegie sticks. There are so many characters out there is a parade and fire works -- special ones just for that night. Exspense wise you might save some money going to Party and the kids can dress in their halloween finest-- even the oldest son-- mom and dad to.

Have fun no matter