We will also be there on the 31st and I have heard that it is always the first to sell out. Since it is also a Friday and the entire state of Nevada gets that day off to celebrate the founding of the state, it will be a very busy weekend at DLR. Hope to see you there!
No, it requires a separate ticket that runs about $30 for each adult (not sure of kids, sorry). It's a "private party" by ticket, so there's a lot less people in the park, meaning more rides!