Radical Magic Kingdom Cuts Will Affect Halloween Season

in Disney Parks, Walt Disney World

Goofy, Minnie, Mickey, Pluto, and Donald dressed up for the Walt Disney World Halloween celebrations.

Credit: Disney

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is right around the corner, and while the signature Disney event is still packed with spooky fun, 2025 is bringing one very big change that longtime fans might not be thrilled about. If you’re someone who loves to snag that perfect Boo-To-You Parade spot, especially in a certain beloved part of the park, you may want to rethink your Halloween strategy this year.

A brightly lit castle with hues of green and blue stands tall at night, illuminated by a magical light show. Fireworks burst in the sky, casting colorful reflections on the castle's turrets. Silhouettes of cheering visitors and Disney cast members are visible in the foreground.
Credit: Disney

Over the years, Frontierland has become a fan-favorite location to catch the Boo-To-You Parade. It’s quieter, more atmospheric, and offers a scenic view that feels straight out of a spooky western ghost town—with the Haunted Mansion looming off in the distance. That stretch along the Rivers of America has been a hidden gem for guests trying to dodge the heavy crowds along Main Street, U.S.A. and the castle hub.

But for the 2025 season, that’s all changing. Disney has officially shut down the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle riverboat. And what’s left in their place? Construction walls. Lots of them.

Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom
Credit: Inside the Magic

Frontierland, once a tranquil viewing area with some of the best parade ambiance in the park, is now in the middle of a massive overhaul. The area along the river’s edge is being reimagined as Piston Peak, inspired by Disney’s Cars franchise.

Meanwhile, on the other side of Big Thunder Mountain, preparations are underway for the eventual arrival of Villains Land—a project many fans are excited about, but one that won’t be completed for several years.

Unfortunately, that means the entire middle section of Magic Kingdom is going to feel a lot more congested this Halloween season. With all that construction fencing blocking off major walkways and crowd overflow space, areas like Liberty Square and even Adventureland could see much heavier foot traffic during the Boo-To-You Parade and other Halloween festivities.

Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom decked out with Disney Halloween decorations.
Credit: Disney

It’s worth noting that the Boo-To-You Parade isn’t just a typical park parade. For many, it’s the heart of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Featuring everything from Hitchhiking Ghosts to a grinning Headless Horseman, it’s a can’t-miss show—and one where your viewing spot makes all the difference. So, the loss of Frontierland as a cozy, less crowded viewing area could really impact the guest experience.

The Headless Horseman at Walt Disney World Resort
Credit: Disney

Of course, the rest of the Halloween Party offerings are still very much intact. You’ll still be able to enjoy the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show, and a whole slew of exclusive treats and character meet-and-greets. But the logistics of getting around the park—and scoring good spots for entertainment—just got a little trickier.

Disney Cast Members welcome Guests as they enter through Magic Kingdom for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Credit: Disney

If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom for the party this year, you’ll want to plan ahead. Consider arriving early to find a new viewing spot for Boo-To-You, and be ready for detours, backtracking, and a few extra crowds in places you wouldn’t normally expect them.

It might also be a good idea to check the party map as soon as it drops—Disney typically adjusts its routes and traffic flow in response to construction, and those tweaks could affect everything from where you trick-or-treat to where you watch the fireworks.

While the construction projects are exciting in the long run—especially the long-awaited Villains-themed land—there’s no denying that 2025’s Halloween experience at Magic Kingdom is going to feel very different. And for fans who loved the atmosphere and calm of Frontierland during the party? It may be time to find a new favorite haunt.

in Disney Parks, Walt Disney World

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