Villians Sinister Soirée

[Luvchefmic]

I assume HH sticks pretty close to the center of the street all along the route, for benefit of both horse and guests.

You're no fun at all

 

[mesaboy2]

You're no fun at all

I'll own that.

 

[Cluelyss]

Somebody tell me how close the headless horseman gets to you at the preferred area. I don't mean reach out and touch or feel his breath ( although that would be AWESOME ) but from a photo point of view. No one seems to mention this part of the parade at all.

Mesaboy is correct....though I wanted to add that my daughter actually asked me if he would be close enough to touch. He wasn't.

 

[Luvchefmic]

Mesaboy is correct....though I wanted to add that my daughter actually asked me if he would be close enough to touch. He wasn't.

Maybe next year we can get an add on to meet the HH and horse for special photos ...I jest but who knows ? we would have never guessed this event

 

[tlprice]

Somebody tell me how close the headless horseman gets to you at the preferred area. I don't mean reach out and touch or feel his breath ( although that would be AWESOME ) but from a photo point of view. No one seems to mention this part of the parade at all.

If you are in the viewing area all the way to the left looking into Liberty Square, you can see him come onto the bridge and stop. He stays there for a little bit and then rides toward you. He turns pretty quickly in front of you to head in front of the castle. I was able to get some good pictures from this spot.

 

[aaarcher86]

We did the soirée on 10/2. It was fantastic, and I'm almost mad it it was so good because now I feel like I have to do it every year! Lmao.

This was our second MNSSHP of the trip with thirst being sold out. The parade route was 3-4 people deep for BOTH parties we went to. The reserved area was a godsend. We got there about 15 minutes before the parade and had a front row spot on the right hand side of the viewing area. They have us free waters, we did the magic shot while we waited, and my oldest daughter (special needs) had plenty of room to perform the Just Dance choreography to the Halloween song lmao.

We stayed in the same spot and saw the Villains castle show. I ran out and grabbed snacks for the rest of us while the kids and other adults watched the show. It was super easy to come and go and the CMs were constantly checking our badges. I saw several people try to go under the string and get into the area and they were quickly redirected. We had a great view of the castle show and fireworks.

As soon as the fireworks ended we went around the castle to the entrance of CRT. It was just the step sisters for us and I'm not a fan of the non line, free for all picture method. As we were walking upstairs someone said to wait behind if we wanted to meet the Queen of Hearts, so we did.

Upstairs Frollo and Hook went around to take photos. We met Frollo, but Hook rushed off and skipped several tables including ours just before Lady Tremaine started the show. Hook was one of main people we wanted to see - if he wasn't there at all, fine. But to see him there and skip us? I wasn't happy. We met all the other villains. Everyone got played desserts and poison juice. The chef talked to my mom who is allergic to chocolate and brought her out her own desserts. They actually set my plate down and then tried to take it away (unsuccessfully. Don't take my treats) saying they couldn't put anything down until the chef came. We told her he already came and she stopped trying to get my goodies.

My husband ended up talking to someone who set it up for us to come back at the beginning of the second party. They brought us up the elevator and we got to do a meet and greet with Hook. It was annoying to miss 30 minutes just hanging around the castle waiting to come back from the last hour of the party, but Hook was important to my youngest so we did. I was glad they made it right.

I love the cups. They're obviously cheap, but they look really cool and we are using them for Halloween decorations. The reserved seating honestly completely saved MNSSHP for us. The Headless Horseman is something my youngest has talked about for a year, and the second parade we had waited for during our first party was cancelled. We had a front row view of him, the parade which was amazing, and all the special stuff because of the dessert party. We didn't get to trick or treat but we did get a bunch of candy from the cups at the party. We did catch Jafar before the reserved seating stuff, but it would have been welcome to see him at the soirée over Frollo, who I feel like nobody recognizes.

I really think this party could been super successful if they had utilized other villains that we know they have available - Hades, Pain and Panic, Oogey Boogey, hyenas, etc. and not taken the major villains away from the normal MNSSHP guests. Heck, I could see people paying double for villains you never see anywhere else! Regardless, it was amazing and well worth the money. I was really glad to see they didn't oversell this. It definitely felt exclusive and limited at all times.

 

[Luvchefmic]

If you are in the viewing area all the way to the left looking into Liberty Square, you can see him come onto the bridge and stop. He stays there for a little bit and then rides toward you. He turns pretty quickly in front of you to head in front of the castle. I was able to get some good pictures from this spot.

PERFECT and what I was looking for. I got him last year when he had to stop before being let into the backstage area down by the car barn down the other end of Main. That's helpful



aaarcher 86 Thanks for your reporting too speaking of I haven't commented on it but have been reading your DAS Halloween TR LOVE it and your precious family.

 

[LCoulter]

We went to the Thursday, October 16 Halloeen party which was sold out and went to the earlier seating of the soirée. The viewing area for the parade was great and we didn't have a problem with the view of the Villians show and fireworks. It was nice to have a lot of room in the viewing area where our DD and another little girl were able to dance to the music.

Above poster said that their kids were not given the Villian's desserts but our DD7 was given the Villian's desserts and wasn't given a choice of other options. DD did not like any of the desserts so she probably would have liked the options.

I want to report back about my diabetic experience. I was listed as diabetic and carb intolerant. The chef came to the table and I was disappointed with the experience but this was my first experience with a chef so maybe I expected too much from him. He seemed to expect me to tell him exactly what I wanted. I assumed that as a chef, he would have the experience to know what to do for low carb diabetic? I ended up saying fruit and he gave me fruit and no sugar added sorbet....it was a pretty plate and I love fruit but it was a little disappointing compared to the Villian's desserts. After this experience with a chef, I won't list myself as a diabetic again.

The Villian's interaction was fun and we had a great time. I did take a bite of each dessert and liked all but the apple. It was a nice experience and I would consider doing it again for a future party.

 

[jcjen519]

We went to the party last night. I had been trying to get tickets since we booked our last minute trip with no luck. About 730pm last night (October 19) I decided to ask at the castle on a whim as we walked past. At first we were told there was only late seating which my five year old just couldn't have handled. But the scheduling guy came down and we actually got the early seating. They escorted us down to the viewing for the parade. It wasn't crowded and we got a great spot right in front of the castle. 3 or 4 characters stopped to talk to my son. He loved it. The fireworks viewing was great as well. We loved the character interaction at the dessert party. So so much fun.

 

[OhioStateBuckeye]

We went to the Villain's Soiree on Oct 5, a Sunday. It is a little bit after the fact but I'll share our experience.

I don't believe this party sold out. There were 4 of us, 2 went to the reserved seating area at around 7:30 to save everyone seats in front of the castle.

The other 2 of us were able to quickly knock out almost all of Tomorrowland and meet Merida. We were doing some trick or treat trails and got texted around 8:15 that we needed to come back, the front row had filled up and people were eyeing our empty spots. We were handed little bottles of water and were able to meet up with our group. I'm not sure how other parties people were able to walk right up to get a front row spot, by 8:20 the second row was almost completely filled in behind the first.

We had good seats for the parade and I was able to get a lot of good pictures with the floats/characters and the castle in the background.

Lots of people did try to sneak in, but our CMs always got them. Which was actually the funniest thing, the CM nearest us was a quiet, smaller girl but she was very firm and insistent with anyone who snuck in.

I was a little disappointed to see that the Creepa Crew didn't come past the castle, but I guess they just stay in Frontierland.

After the parade we moved back towards the back for the Projection show. I think I enjoy the Projection show more than regular Wishes (but not Hallowishes). Things got a little tense because 4 people in the VIP seating were standing, and there were several rows of sitters behind the rows and they were heckling the standers to sit so they could see.

Finally our diminutive CM came over and informed the hecklers that these people had paid a lot of money for this area and they could stand if they wanted.

I was ok with the whole exchange until 2 more standers came and planted themselves 5 feet in front of my BF and I, so we had to get up and move.

I didn't think it was a bad view for the fireworks, yeah, some were a little behind the castle but hey, we got to sit and see them, which is a very important thing at the end of a long trip.

Probably the best part was towards the end when all the fireworks go off all around you, that was a cool effect what with being so close.

I believe there was a villains show right after the fireworks, if not it was right after the parade and I'm just forgetting the order.

The viewing area was ok for the villains show, someone towards the front of the castle stage did have a large balloon, those things cover a lot of stage for people farther back. Maybe something to keep in mind if you have balloon, maybe try to hold it lower during a show.

So anyway the viewing area was most likely a success, though I do prefer to watch the parade from Frontierland, I think it provides a little spookier of atmosphere.

We were schedule for the late seating, so after the events we wandered away and had time to do some characters and rides. Oh, another thing, we had already attended a party previously, I think I would have been displeased with how much of the party the soiree took up otherwise.

I think we showed up at the castle around 11:15. The waiting area was already packed, people must have shown up much earlier. They let us in right around 11:25.

I didn't like this next part, we were all jammed into the area of the castle where you greet Cinderella. I did not think this area was big enough for us all.

The Queen of Hearts and the Stepsisters soon came down to do meet and greets. I agree with a previous poster who doesn't like this free for all character meeting. I don't like to shove my way in, but other people definitely don't have that problem

We had met the Queen of Hearts earlier and knew we'd meet the stepsister upstairs, so we stood out of the way.

Finally they let us upstairs. I recommend waiting until most people are up, we went in the middle of the crowd and the stairway is very small and it took us an exceptionally long time to climb the stairs (which should have only taken maybe 2 minutes).

Our table was by the window, which I was very pleased about.

Here comes my biggest complaint though: they cram way too many people into the Castle. There was a table for 2 next to us along the window, those people could not get up unless we were up, the tables and chairs were so close together. Their table for 2 was at the very middle of the castle, so it kind of narrows together. I don't think there should have even been a table there, it made it very awkward for character greeting.

It looked like Hook and Jafar were making the rounds first, I believe they each started at one end of the room, then when they got halfway they switched and came from the other side. I wondered if this had to do with them being fur characters and not being able to see as well, so they wanted to get them out of the way before all the food service started in earnest.

We got to meet both and have good interactions. At this time we had the cheese and meat plate on the table, we all liked it and the waiter was more than willing to bring more cheese, crackers or meat.

I liked the special drink we had, I thought it was good and our waiter brought us copious refills. We also had water on the table as well. Which brings me to another complaint: the table top was super crowded.

We had 4 people, so that was 4 special drinks, 4 waters, the cheese and meat plate and all our individual plates, then we each had a candy cup and the table candle and the table decoration. Not to mention all of our MNSSHP candy bags shoved on the floor and various costume props.

I thought the candy cup was kind of cheap. All of ours had the cheapest sort of candy and I wasn't impressed by the flimsy cup.

Then the event was officially started by Lady Tremaine.

Honestly, I thought the soiree inside the castle was saved by the characters. We had excellent interactions with all. Probably the best was Anastasia throwing a fit about Elsa. One of our party members was dressed as Elsa and Anastasia started yelling that it wasn't all about Elsa and she was so selfish and taking over Disney. It was hilarious.

The time went by very quickly and I did feel like we were rushed out at the end.

Overall:

Food: I enjoyed all of it (except the candy in the cup). I really liked the desserts I got to try, I ran out of time when I was only finished with 2, I never did get to try the other 2 because I ended up getting food poisoning (not related to the Soiree, I think it was Raglan Road).

Atmosphere: not great. They squished so many people in there. Maybe it was just awkward for us because of the table for 2 that we helped to trap.

Characters: best part of the event. I feel bad though that Maleficent and Snow Queen were not available for everyone.


Would I do it again? No, not for that price. thought it was fun once. We have never had a problem getting a front row parade spot in Frontierland half an hour before the second one. Never had a problem seeing the fireworks either. The food was good, but I like most of Disney's food. And I really hope Disney won't hold characters hostage for special party events only that used to be available for everyone at the party.

Only way I can see us doing it again is if they offer some really rare characters. I did have to laugh at a PP suggesting the hyenas should be there in the future, I mean, I'd love to meet them but I think they would have wrecked all the tables with their giant swinging heads, I think there just wasn't room for them to maneuver in the castle. Same thing with Oogie Boogie, he just has too much bulk.

 

[mguilford1]

We are going to tonights party second seating....Any last minute advice for us? I thought I had everything planned? What time should I get to the parade area? When does it actually open? Do I stay there to see the fireworks or can we go wander? If we do leave what time do we have to be back? We have the 11:25 seating is it hard to get thru crowds at this time? I know it depends where we are but how much extra time might it take to get back to the castle? Do we go right to the front of the castle to get in?

 

[Cluelyss]

We are going to tonights party second seating....Any last minute advice for us? I thought I had everything planned? What time should I get to the parade area? When does it actually open? Do I stay there to see the fireworks or can we go wander? If we do leave what time do we have to be back? We have the 11:25 seating is it hard to get thru crowds at this time? I know it depends where we are but how much extra time might it take to get back to the castle? Do we go right to the front of the castle to get in?

You can enter the VIP area at 7:30, check in is to the far right of the hub. No need to get there that early if you already have your badges, though. But if you want to see the Headless Horseman, try to be there by 8. We were running behind and had a very hard time getting through the crowds closer to parade time. You will check in for the soirée at the back of the castle like you are dining at CRT. You are welcome to come and go from the VIP area, but there is not a lot of time between the parade, villains show, castle projection show, and fireworks, so if you want to see it all, I recommend staying put. We loved all the space we had to stretch out and relax at this point in the evening! Plus they will come around with waters and suckers, so no need to leave! We had the early seating, and it was a nightmare trying to get through the crowds as the fireworks ended, but you should have an easier time at 11:25! Have fun, it was an amazing event!!!

 

[WDWBelle]

We are going to tonights party second seating....Any last minute advice for us? I thought I had everything planned? What time should I get to the parade area? When does it actually open? Do I stay there to see the fireworks or can we go wander? If we do leave what time do we have to be back? We have the 11:25 seating is it hard to get thru crowds at this time? I know it depends where we are but how much extra time might it take to get back to the castle? Do we go right to the front of the castle to get in?

The parade area opens up at 7:30 but people start lining up earlier. If you have your heart set on a particular part of the reserved area I would line up before 7:30, if it doesn't matter as much then you can be more casual about the time. It starts to get crazy around the parade routes by the castle so leave enough time to get there before it starts. Also be sure to leave enough time to see the Headless Horseman ride, which happens really quickly but is a wonderful touch.

The crowds at 11:25 shouldn't be a problem at all (that's the seating we had which was fantastic) around the castle and that is plenty early for the Soiree. Just allow enough walking time from wherever you are. You enter as you would for Cinderella's Royal Table which is at the back of the castle.

The crowds when the fireworks end and they remove the reserved area ropes are unbelievably bad. Either get going immediately, even before the ropes go down, or find a spot to wait it out. It's just awful, a sea of swarming people, strollers and ECV's. You cannot move, it's wall to wall people pushing.

Have a wonderful time! The Soiree was one of the best things we have done on our last trip! Make sure you take lots of pictures on your way out as well because the park will be empty apart from the party goers.

 

[Chelley00]

We were at the late seating last night. It was fantastic! We went to check in at 7 and they actually opened up the line at 7:15. We got the coveted spot at the turn from Frontierland and its like the parade was just a few feet away.

They do need either a way to mark the area reserved better or more CMs. So many people trying to duck under the ropes and the poor CMs were running around like crazy kicking people out. We finally all just started saying "you have to have a pass" and one of the CMs gave my Ds9 a trading pin for being so helpful Once we were waiting for the fireworks the CMs were talking to everyone and they passed out suckers. The water was gone by the time the parade was over.

I took a picture of the space we had in front of us compared to the wall to wall crowd outside the ropes. Not being squished in like they were was worth every penny before we even got into the soiree.

We were seated in the middle and a few times we had every villain surrounding us. We all had on a different villain shirt and we got a ton of interaction. We were in stitches laughing the whole night.

I have food allergies and the chef was AMAZING!!! I got my own cheese plate and my own desserts all made safely. The kids weren't cracked about the desserts but they had candy so it all worked out.

We loved the whole thing. Waking out of MK at 1am is lovely. They had security stationed at a the turns but they never rushed us to get out. There were only five people on the ferry/tram with us!

 

[Yonich2501]

If anyone is going to cancel their soirée for 10/30 or 10/31, please let me know. I have been trying non-stop to get a reservation since I found out about it (a few days after announced), literally calling 5 times a day, every day.

I only need 2 people!

Thank you!!!!

 

[BirdsOfPreyDave]

I only need 2 people!

Unfortunately, that's probably your problem. There are very few tables for 2.

 

[Yonich2501]

Oh really? That stinks.

 

[tiriggs1]

Oh really? That stinks.

We were a party of 2 and we were sat by ourselves at a table for 4. There were quite a few parties of 2 at a 4 top table when we went in late September.

 

[Yonich2501]

I'll just have to keep calling, then! I wish you could just look online like you would with a dining reservation.

Hoping we get in!!!!!

 

[Luvchefmic]

I'll just have to keep calling, then! I wish you could just look online like you would with a dining reservation.

Hoping we get in!!!!!

You have to remember something this is treated just like any ADR in the system. People can cancel up to 24 hrs in advance and get their money back.
Keep trying