Not sure we liked the new MNSSHP format

[GC&S]

We went on Oct. 5. We got there about 6:30 after eating at Chef Mickeys (which we loved!). This was our third MNSSHP. It was kind of a pain getting in as so many people were exiting. But we thought it was a good sign as they were doing a great job of clearing the park. At 8 p.m. they were still chasing out non paying people. At each entrance to each land, they had it roped off and you had to show your wristband to get in. Which was fine, except there were crowds of people trying to get through each way and it was hard squeezing through the "gated" areas. We stood in line for a photopass picture at 8 p.m. in front of the castle and three families in front of us did not have wristbands. DH said something to the CM and she asked him what he expected her to do about it. He told her to make them leave since we paid for this experience and they didn't. She just shrugged her shoulders.

On the other hand, it was nice not being "herded" into one of the lands before the party started at 7. We did go on a lot of rides (with hardly any waiting). We really would have liked the free family pic just because we've always done it and it was a nice perk.

We did a few treat stations and thought they were very generous with the treats, especially on the trail of treats. Loved the treat trough at the exit. DD was asleep and they filled two bags for her (we gave one bag to another family who didn't see it at the exit).

Again, this was our third party so not sure if we will do it again next year. Might try and hold out to go in Dec. and try the Holiday party.

We had fun (how can you not??) but I think I liked when they closed the park early and then reopened it for the party.

 

[Amy&Dan]

I have heard many others stating that MK closing an hour later than in previous years is a big problem. Maybe some higher up at WDW reads the dis and is taking notes! I think this new change just seems to make it all the better to get to the park before 6:00. I just read another thread that someone arrived at 6:45 and spent 45 minutes getting in (which translates to a missed half hour of party they paid for).

 

[MonkeyPants]

I havent liked the idea of the new format since I heard about it..I am going on the 16th and 17th and hope we dont run into mobs of people who 'dont belong' there

 

[DisFam95]

We went the same day and time and walked right in . No problems that we saw. We saw rows of CM's watching for wristbands and overheard some higher-ups explaining what to look for. Focus on families not dressed up/no kids etc.

Went Oct 6 also and it was slower walking up Main Street but I've heard Fridays are more crowded typically anyway.

The only treat trough we saw was a "Top Off w/ Snickers" where they put a handful in your bag..not the take as much as you want I'd been hearing about. Maybe we missed that.

We had a great time.