🎃 42 Days to Go! Countdown Reflections & Halloween Magic at Disneyland

There are moments during this countdown series where I’ve thought, “Am I totally crazy for keeping this going?” I mean, how many things can people possibly want to read about when it comes to a single trip? But then I remember — this isn’t just about packing lists and park tips. It’s about the memories, the magic, and the stories that make each trip unforgettable.

And today, with just 3 days until Halloween, I’m diving into one of my favorite Disney memories: our very first trip in October 2018, built around one spooky, sparkly goal — attending Mickey’s Not So Spooky Halloween Party at Disneyland.

🧛‍♀️ Our First Halloween Party: Costumes, Candy & Chaos

We were determined to dress up. Like, full-on costumes. Our daughter chose to be Mal from Descendants, which was perfect — lightweight, recognizable, and easy to modify for the heat. But my husband and I? We went all in as Winifred Sanderson and a classic vampire, complete with layers, capes, and accessories that were clearly designed for Minnesota weather… not Southern California.

Even growing up in SoCal, I somehow forgot how relentless the heat can be — especially when you’re layered up in velvet and polyester. After a few hours of sweating through our spooky looks, we ditched the costumes and embraced the party-exclusive light-up Halloween ears instead.

Honestly? Best decision ever. We glowed all night long and still felt festive without melting.

🍬 Trick-or-Treating in Toon Town: A Hidden Gem

One of the most unique aspects of the Disneyland version of the party was how they used Toon Town as a pre-party hub. About an hour before the event officially started, guests were directed there to check in, get their wristbands, and enjoy a mini trick-or-treat experience.

This was pre–Runaway Railway, so the area still had that classic Toon Town charm. We visited our favorite character houses, filled our bags with candy, and rode a few attractions while the rest of the park was being quietly cleared out and transformed for the party.

It was such a smart setup — sequestering party guests in one area while Cast Members prepped the rest of the park. No awkward wristband checks. No frustrated day guests being escorted out. Just a smooth, magical transition into a night of entertainment, characters, and much shorter lines.

🏰 Nostalgia & The Haunted Mansion Dilemma

I totally understand why the event moved to Disney California Adventure in 2019, with Oogie Boogie Bash taking center stage. But I still wish they had kept the original Disneyland version alive. I mean… how do you host a Halloween party without the Haunted Mansion?

That attraction is the heart of spooky season at Disneyland. And while DCA has its own charm, there’s something about starting the night in Toon Town, trick-or-treating through Fantasyland, and ending with a glowing ride through the Haunted Mansion that just feels right.

💬 Let’s Chat: Your Spooky Stories

Did you ever attend Mickey’s Not So Spooky Halloween Party at Disneyland?

Have you experienced both Mickey’s and Oogie’s events? Which one stole your spooky heart?

Drop your stories in the comments or tag me in your own countdown posts — I’d love to hear how your Halloween Disney adventures compare!