If I'm not going to MHP, will DCA be crowded?

[lattemomof3]

Still trying to decide if DS12 and I should get tickets for Mon Oct 27 MHP. We'll fly in from Nebraska & be at the parks from about 2:00pm on Sat, through Tues. As we have only 3 1/2 days in the parks, and we only get to DL every few years, I'm wondering if it will be more worth our time to head over to DCA instead of doing the party? Will DCA be more crowded or less crowded because of the party?
I thought we'd head to DCA before 3pm, so DS12 isn't bummed when he sees all the people in costumes heading to the party. I don't think he'll mind too much, since the candy is everyday candy & we don't want a bunch to have to take on the plane, and because he isn't really into waiting in line for characters anymore. I think he would enjoy the atmosphere & the fireworks, but not sure if those 2 things are worth the limited time we have, or worth the cost. I know DCA closes early, around 8 I think, so I thought we could go enjoy DD for awhile after that. Thoughts?

 

[ricardol]

That is a tough one. We are actually attending the MHP on the 27th, this will be my third MHP and I just love them. The fireworks are awesome, the ambient, everything is great. You see the characters in different costumes, and there are some mini shows going around the park.

Regarding DCA being more crowded I think IMO yes ppl will switch to DCA but still is a monday and it should be less crowded than compared to Previous Sunday.


One Tip though. MHP tend to sell out, so you better be final on your decision, Don't expect to get there and decide while you are the park to buy tickets for MHP because 95% probability it will be sold out.

 

[Imdboss]

I've been to MHP twice. One year I learned the hard way that the event does sell out. So in order to salvage the night since we didn't have MHP tickets we went to DCA. It was quite crowded because you have all of the people from DL going over to DCA along with the people that have already been in DCA. I think it was a Friday however so maybe on a Monday it won't be quite as bad. We are going on 10/10 this year and we can't wait!

 

[lwanthony]

When we were there in 2012 on the night of MHP we thought, no big deal, lets go to DCA. IT WAS INSANE! Shoulder to shoulder crowds. We only lasted about 10 minutes before we gave up and went back tot he hotel.

You mileage may vary, but that was my experience.

-Lane

 

[MychaelP]

DCA will be very, very crowded by the time Disneyland closes to normal guests. Personally I noticed that as soon as Disney allows the Halloween ticketed guests in at 3 or 4pm, Disneyland becomes unbearable quickly for rides. Fun to see the costumes though. I wish they would not let Halloween guests in early because when they do, people from out of town, like you, don't get to use the park very much for $96, or other ticket you may buy.

Be aware, my experience at Disneyland is that if you are stuck in line for a ride, and get out after their normal closing time of 6pm or 7pm, they don't let you use any restrooms other than near the main entrance. We were turned away at N.O. Square, Adventureland, and near Carnation Cafe. Lots of yelling so people can hear them, since the music was loud. It was a hassle, but I understand why they did it.
With Disneyland being the big tourist draw, you'd think they would move the party back to DCA since it closes 2 hours or so earlier everyday anyway.

That said: Avoid the parks on Halloween Party days if you can, or just plan on arriving early, leaving early and enjoy your hotel or other attractions in the area. Unless the crowds don't bother you.

 

[adventuregirl]

I was wondering the same thing. We will be there Mon Oct 27-Friday morning Oct 31. We are driving down from Sacramento on Monday, and have tickets to MHP that evening. We hope to arrive before 3pm, check into our hotel and then head to the party that afternoon at 3 when they open the gates for MHP.

Tuesday I have slotted for magic morning at Disneyland - so all day there. Then Wednesday, the next MHP night, our plan was to hit DCA for the day and watch WoC that night. Thursday is a free for all park hopper day to do things we missed or wanted to do a second time.

Because Wednesday is a MHP night, would it be better to plan for WoC Thursday night? We head back to Sacramento Friday morning.

TIA