MMouse50-I would definitely skip the dessert party, and do the Christmas party. I have done both, and feel the dessert party is HIGHLY overrated (unless you like screaming kids all around you, that are having sugar highs)! The MVMCP is a great themed event, you get hot cocoa, cookies, apple slices, and now I even think you can also get apple juice. The parade is spectacular. One year with DH and two kids, I walked up alone and asked for 8 cookies and 4 hot chocolates, and they said no problem and happily gave to me. I know it isn't free because it is an extra ticket, but I highly suggest you do MVMCP.