For party fans, cancellation of the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party was another blow in 2020. In my opinion, that actually makes this year the best year to visit Walt Disney World for the Halloween season. Unlike Christmastime (which I think is a skip this year without the gingerbread houses, castle lights, and more), I believe you’re actually getting more this year if you usually decide to forgo the party ticket. Here are five reasons to go in the fall season this year.

• Character Cavalcades- The new character cavalcades now have a Halloween twist. See some of your favorite rare characters and villains – like Jack Skellington, Sally and Oogie Boogie, as well as other characters in their Halloween costumes and gear. While this doesn’t replace the Boo to You Parade, it’s a fun addition to the park for the season, and you can look up last year’s parade video on YouTube. 

• Hours- Finally during the Halloween season, everyone is on the same level with the park not closing early for the party ticket. This can usually affect planning: which day to go to the Magic Kingdom since it has historically been busier overall on days without the party but closes early on days with the party. This evens out the crowd levels, plus Disney is still operating on some level of limited capacity.

• Photos– The leveled up crowds and limited capacity makes right now a great time to get good photos with the Fall décor. As I mentioned in my article over the summer on why now is a good time to visit, I’m so jealous of everyone’s low crowd photos, and it’s a great time to get those with the Fall decorations. 

• Festive treats– While historically the Fall-themed treats have only been available during the Halloween party, they are now available all day. This is another small win for the hose who typically forgo the party. Try the Mickey Monster Mash Burger, Hades Nachos, or Not So Poison Apple Cupcake, among many others. 

• Costumes– For the first time again, everyone – not just the kids – can attend Magic Kingdom in costumes during the Halloween season. If you love to dress up, this is your time to shine. Even if you don’t like dressing up, I’m willing to bet there are going to be some cool costumes you’ll be seeing as you go throughout the parks. 

Now is not the time to be upset about what is lost without the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, but instead, be excited about all you can get without the cost of a party ticket this year. What are you most looking forward to this season?