Halloween at Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios in 2023

Halloween at Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios in 2023

September 3, 2023

The month of October is highly sought after by tourists looking to experience the culture and attractions of Halloween in the Orlando parks, and this tradition is no coincidence. 

You’ll find enchanting streets adorned, houses decorated with carved pumpkins just like in the movies, and themed parties downtown. But the real magic of October happens in the parks, which transform into true havens of unique Halloween attractions. 

This period is perfect for visiting Orlando and it doesn’t just attract tourists from other countries; it’s also a tradition among Americans, where each park dedicates itself to providing an exclusive celebration for the date. 

You can choose between more peaceful events designed for children, up to celebrations with spine-chilling attractions that challenge even the bravest adults. 

Each park has its own approach to this celebration, with some promoting festivities during the day, while others reserve activities for the evening, after the normal operating hours. In these cases, it’s necessary to acquire a special ticket, guaranteeing access to the spooky Halloween attractions. 

And for a better understanding of how the Halloween festivities work at Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios, just keep following our article. 

 

Magic Kingdom and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 

Undoubtedly, this is the most famous and sought-after party for those who want to enjoy Halloween with kids, or even for adults who prefer a more playful celebration with Mickey Mouse and the gang. 

Every year, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party takes place on specific dates and times in the months of September, October, and November, being limited to just a few days. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the available dates in advance and reserve your tickets. 

At this party, there are no frightening elements, but the decoration is breathtaking and features the presence of adorable Disney characters. As we mentioned earlier, it’s the favorite party of kids, keeping the tradition of Halloween without horrifying elements. 

In addition to the standard admission ticket to access the park during the day, to participate in the party, it’s necessary to purchase an additional ticket that allows you to stay at the Magic Kingdom during the night. 

You and your family will have fun watching parades, fireworks shows, and other special events for a unique and magical experience. 

 

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in 2023 

We suggest that you pay attention to the dates when the party takes place, even if you’re not interested in participating, because on event days, the traditional fireworks show at Magic Kingdom doesn’t take place, and the park closes its gates earlier. 

In 2023, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will run from August 11th to November 1st. The party always occurs from 7 p.m. to midnight, after the park’s closure to other visitors. 

If you have a ticket for the party, you can enter Magic Kingdom from 4 p.m. 

 

Check the exact dates in 2023 

Month of August on the days 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29. 

Month of September on the days 1, 4, 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29. 

Month of October on the days 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31. 

Month of November on the 1st. 

Get ready for the unforgettable Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show and other returning attractions in 2023, such as the Abracadabra show at the castle with the Sanderson sisters, the Boo to You parade, thematic treats, and distributed sweets. 

 

Universal Studios and Halloween Horror Nights 

Different from the “cuter” Halloween at Magic Kingdom we mentioned earlier, Halloween Horror Nights, as the name suggests, is the perfect party for those who want to enjoy a traditional Halloween with lots of scares, in true American style. 

This Halloween party is more suitable for adults and for people who truly want to experience a terrifying night with plenty of scares. 

On party days, Universal Studios extends its operating hours into the night so that all sorts of monstrous creatures invade the place to haunt the visitors. 

Among the frightening characters, you can even find Jason and Freddy Krueger. 

To participate in Halloween Horror Nights, you’ll also need to purchase a separate ticket from the park admission ticket, allowing you to enjoy the party and some attractions like roller coasters. 

 

Halloween Horror Nights in 2023 

This year, Universal Studios’ most terrifying party takes place between September 1st and October 31st. 

It will be the 32nd edition of Halloween Horror Nights, and you’ll be able to choose from 44 nights of festivity, which is a record for the event! 

In the 2023 edition, you’ll find many novelties with 10 new haunted houses, each inspired by the biggest names in horror and pop culture, as well as terrifying concepts developed by the event creators. 

You’ll also find five fear zones spread throughout the park, each filled with frightening creatures, and you can also enjoy live performances. 

Thematic foods and shops filled with related products also offer a unique experience. 

 

Check the exact dates in 2023 

Month of September on the days 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30. 

Month of October on the days 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31. 

 

Important reminders 

Regardless of whether you prefer the more playful Halloween at Magic Kingdom or the scarier one at Universal Studios, buying your tickets in advance is a mandatory task for the success of your trip. 

Another item that can’t be missed if you’re traveling to Orlando with children is renting a stroller for the comfort of the little ones and the whole family. The stroller makes transporting children easier and makes the outing much more enjoyable. 

By reserving your stroller with StrollerCare, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the stroller in hand, at your preferred location, with Portuguese-speaking assistance and the best budget in town. 

Get in touch with our specialized team in the chat here on the blog and learn more.