I am struggling with this as well. We go Dec 8th.
I am fine with arriving to the dessert party by 9-9:!5, we don't need an hour of desserts. I'd prefer first parade and open time after the fireworks for cookies, rides, etc.
I have watched so many blogger videos. The parade routes look busier than I experienced at
MNSSHP last year. Main street is packed. People seem to be lining up earlier in Frontierland too.
I miss the dessert parties that included the parade spot...
Hoping for reports on experiences from others.