MNSSHP Disappointment

[Feralpeg]

DD and I attended the very first MNSSHP. It was amazing. Instead of just along Main Street, there were Halloween decorations all over the park. They had free face painting and free fortune tellers. So much fun!

In 2004, we had just moved to Florida. Two of my friends flew down to join DD and I for a party. It was empty! We literally walked on to everything. In fact, my friend took a picture of the queue for Small World to show her family. There wasn't a single person in line.

My, how things have changed! DD and I have attended many parties since. Decorations have disappeared expect along Main Street. Crowds are huge. We still enjoy the party. We are going toward the end of September, but we really don't do much other than watch the parade, check out people's costumes and watch the fireworks.

 

[Jrb1979]

If the crowds are that bad why not go to Halloween Horror nights instead.

 

[Love Tink]

If the crowds are that bad why not go to Halloween Horror nights instead.

Or take a cooking class?

 

[BayouQueen]

I went to my 1st hard ticket event last year, Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland, and absolutely loved every minute of it. I am attending my 1st MNSSHP this year in October and I cannot wait! I was concerned about crowds last year at MHP, and while it was certainly crowded, the festive atmosphere and the truly unique experience more than made up for the park attendance. I am anticipating that this year will be the same.

I have to agree with those who suggest knocking out character meet-and-greets and attractions during normal park hours whenever possible. You can FP 7DMT, BTM, or SM (either one) and cross them off your list before the party starts. I think that wait times run a little longer because a LOT of guests will put off these activities, thinking they can avoid long lines during the party.

October can't get here soon enough! Save me some M&M's!

AggieDizzer, I cut my teeth on the parties at DL and LOVED them. When we finally made it to a party at WDW, we totally did it wrong. We wore ourselves out early! Be aware that Magic Kingdom is soooo much bigger, and everything is spread apart so much more -- like the trick-or-treat trail alone can really wear your dogs out! Just friendly advice to focus on a smaller geographical area and don't worry too much that you might be missing out on something far, far away. You can't do it all!

But no matter, the Halloween party at WDW is awesome! Have a great time!!

 

[dlavender]

We went in 2017 in September and it was a one and done for us.

We don’t do characters and weren’t interested in the candy (on a personal level I just feel like the cost is way too high to stand in line for what I feel isn’t worth it).

We did enjoy riding rides (we didn’t wait for 7DMT as that was still too long). We liked the atmosphere and parade. But for the money it just isn’t worth it. Best part is being at MK late at night and not having to deal with FP. I recommend it as a one time deal to others, but just know it isn’t a low crowd event and as long as you aren’t trying to do characters plus rides you’ll do ok...

 

[Jennasis]

If the crowds are that bad why not go to Halloween Horror nights instead.

I don't do gore/horror.

 

[Jimmy Mouse]

We did MVMCP in 2016 and it was great! 2017 we were there before, during and after Irma came through so all the parks were walk on all week (trip report with pics in sig) We also did MNSSHP twice while there and it was more crowded than the day but very manageable with no waits and it was easy to grab a spot for the parade but Tuesday night was better than Friday night. Fast forward to 2018 and MNSSHP was so crowded we left early. We did a Tuesday night figuring it wouldn't be as crowded with school the next day. We were wrong. Long waits for everything, hard to get a spot to watch the parade or the fireworks. Total waste of money. We were at WDW over Christmas week and though it was jam packed I feel it was way easier and we did more than at the Halloween party.

 

[Mambo Junkie]

Yeah, reading through the big MNSSHP thread, it is astonishing to me how many of the posters have also bought tickets to one of the special events within the event, or are going to more than one party.

I have done a few paid events. I don't like doing them during parties because I feel it takes away from party time. I did the Christmas Tomorrowland Terrace party, very disappointing (didn't like the view, food disappointing, took too much party time) and the Star Wars fireworks party (didn't like the food, very disappointed with the view) but the only one I felt was worth the money was the Tony's Town Square Electrical parade party. Views were fantastic, right in the hub facing the castle, great for both the parade and fireworks. (Plus, we enjoyed our meal).

ETA: That's not to say I wouldn't do it; it's just not for me. Others would enjoy the food, and should at least experience it 1 time to form their own opinion.