Credit: DisneyThe Walt Disney World Resort may have made some operational changes to its seasonal Halloween proceedings this year, but a noticeable change is an updated look for a beloved character.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is again casting its seasonal spell over Magic Kingdom, transforming Walt Disney World’s iconic park into a celebration that blends family-friendly frights with signature Disney charm. Running on select nights from August 15 through Halloween night, this specially ticketed event invites guests of all ages to embrace the festive spirit with trick-or-treating trails, live entertainment, Halloween overlays on select attractions, and rare character encounters. While the party officially kicks off at 7 p.m., early access begins at 4 p.m. for ticket holders, giving guests a jumpstart on the evening’s activities.
Per the official Walt Disney World Resort website, this year’s dates are as follows:
- August 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
- September 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
- October 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31
The beloved Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade is a cornerstone of the entertainment offering. This procession includes fan-favorite characters dressed in their Halloween best and a dramatic ride by the Headless Horseman. Over at Cinderella Castle, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular brings the Sanderson Sisters to center stage alongside Disney villains.
Also showing on Cinderella Castle is Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, which takes over the night, with castle projections and pyrotechnics hosted by Jack Skellington. The Nightmare Before Christmas, produced by Tim Burton and directed by Henry Selick, is a fan-favorite Disney movie and a historic part of 90s cinema. The Pumpkin King Jack Skellington, voiced by Chris Sarandon in the film, is a staple of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, and this year Disney Experiences has updated his look.
A New Jack Skellington
Previously donning a more eerie mask and makeup look that some guests found disturbing, this year Disney has updated the Jack Skellington parks’ character to look almost exactly like the original movie version. Revealed on the Disney Parks Instagram account, fans quickly flocked to the comments to celebrate the update.
What’s This? The Pumpkin King is making a wicked return this Halloween season
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Fans quickly celebrated the updated look with comments like “Awesome, he looks like himself now,” and “looks so much better.” The update will likely cause even heavier crowds for the Halloween parties as ticketholders aim to get photos with this version of Jack Skellington.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates and Discounts
Beyond the shows, Magic Kingdom’s familiar rides, like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, keep their doors open. Meanwhile, trick-or-treat stations scatter across the park, dishing out generous helpings of candy (and allergy-friendly options for those who request them). Character meet-and-greets are taken to the next level, with rare appearances and Halloween-exclusive costumes that make for unforgettable photo ops.
Guests are encouraged to show off their own costumes too, as Disney relaxes its dress code policy during the party, though all costumes must still comply with park guidelines. Ticket prices for 2025 vary by date, ranging from $119 to $229 per person, with discounts available to Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members on select nights.
Tickets officially go on sale May 15 for Disney Resort hotel guests and May 22 for the general public. Despite the rising costs, many parkgoers view Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party as a must-do fall tradition, delivering a unique blend of nostalgic fun and seasonal magic that simply can’t be found during regular park hours. With immersive entertainment, exclusive merchandise, themed food and beverages, and crowd-favorite villains lurking around every corner, this year’s event promises to be a good time from start to finish.
How do you feel about this updated new look for Jack Skellington? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!