MNSSHP - questions about strategy

[Mrs~Incredible]

Hi all, hoping to plan a trip fall 2016 (our 7th, my 10th!) and include our very first MNSSHP. So, a few questions to the wise DIS-ers:

1. I know you just need a ticket to the party, can get in at 4:00, party starts at 7. I also know there are no FPs during the party - but should we try to book some from 4-7? Can we even do that with just our MNSSHP ticket or would it need to be an official park day on our magic bands? (not sure I want to blow one of our park days for the party night - will probably do downtown Disney or hand at the hotel until party time)

2. I know dates are not released yet, but if we are down there for the first week of the party, would you recommend going on Tuesday or Friday? (traditional party days of the week). I've read that Tuesdays are generally better but if the first Tuesday is opening night, I am wondering if that might be super-crowded and we should do Friday instead...

Thoughts/advice appreciated!!

 

[Raya]

Yes, you can book FPs for the 4pm to 7pm time frame with your party ticket. It's a little tricky though as your last FP must end before 7pm. The system isn't smart enough to stop you from starting a FP at 3:00 or 3:30. Last year our selections worked out to be 3:30 to 4:30, 4:45 to 5:45, and 5:55 to 6:55.

Crowds vary, but I'd say go with Friday night over opening night - which was super crowded last year.

 

[Quellman]

Yes, you can book FPs for the 4pm to 7pm time frame with your party ticket. It's a little tricky though as your last FP must end before 7pm. The system isn't smart enough to stop you from starting a FP at 3:00 or 3:30. Last year our selections worked out to be 3:30 to 4:30, 4:45 to 5:45, and 5:55 to 6:55.

Crowds vary, but I'd say go with Friday night over opening night - which was super crowded last year.

The opening night was a miss last year in terms of Disney's responsibilities, Disney failed to escort non-party guests out of the park. There were also less party nights last year when compared to previous years. The first night was also crowded with Disney bloggers all trying to report on the new things, and last year it was the debut of the much anticipated Sanderson Sisters Hocus Pocus show. Much too soon to judge this year on what day would be best, but I would consider not attending the first night as well.

 

[Mrs~Incredible]

Thanks for the replies- this board has the best planning advice!