Celebrating Halloween Disney Style – Disney Cruise Line

I’ll bet when you think of ghouls and goblins and all things Halloween, Disney is not what first comes to mind, but the U.S. Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line really know how to throw a Halloween party! My family has been fortunate to visit Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Resort, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort, and Halloween on the High Seas on Disney Cruise Line. When my son was little, I knew it was a great safe way for him to dress up and go trick-or-treating. Plus, it was fun rather than scary. Now that he’s older, I have to admit we still trick-or-treat, but we are also able to enjoy the festivities in a different way.

To do these amazing parties justice, rather than try to fit them all into one post, I’m splitting into a three-part series. For now, let’s start with Halloween on the High Seas on Disney Cruise Line.

First, I want to mention that Halloween on the High Seas is in addition to the regular activities, itineraries, and scheduled excursions. For those who still want to enjoy some time at the pool or AquaDuck or don’t want to miss out on the Pirates IN the Caribbean Party, they still can. So, what’s different?

The first thing one notices on the Halloween on the High Seas cruises is the decorations. It is definitely Halloween-time on board! The atrium is all decked out with ribbons in fall colors with Mickey-shaped pumpkins and a large pumpkin tree. The portholes make for perfectly round Jack-O-Lanterns so eyes, a nose, and a mouth have been added. Some portholes have spider webs, but not sticky, scary webs. They look almost like window clings of strands of pearls.

Of course, cruisers get in on the decorating as well. On the Halloween cruises my family has been on, over half of the cabin doors were decorated with a Halloween theme. Some of them are pretty elaborate!

The pumpkin tree in the atrium, though, isn’t just for decoration. It’s part of an elaborate story that will be told during the cruise. Don’t miss it. The pumpkin tree comes to life!

Also in the atrium is the fun, family-friendly Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party. Join Mickey, Minnie and friends for candy, dancing, and lots of fun! The characters will be in costume so don’t forget yours. My family has found that this is great for watching your fellow cruisers. Many have some really amazing costumes. I wonder where they find room in their luggage!

As long as you’re in costume, check out the adults-only Villainous Takeover in the entertainment district. There’s a costume contest, dancing, and of course, adult beverages.

Are you a Nightmare Before Christmas fan? You’re in luck on Halloween on the High Seas. First, Nightmare Before Christmas is shown in the theater on the big screen. Guests are encouraged to “sing and scream” along. For my family, the best part was the meet and greet with Jack and Sally after. Those aren’t characters one sees too often.

If you are looking for something just a bit more scary, how about ghost stories on deck? Cruisers can join a mysterious sea captain under the night-time sky for spooky tales. I have found this is a big hit with the older kids.

Halloween on the High Seas on Disney Cruise Line is definitely a great way to celebrate the season. Plus, there’s probably one setting sail near you with itineraries leaving not only from Port Canaveral, Florida, but also San Diego, California and New York City. In addition, they vary in length from two nights to seven nights, so one can go on a quick trip or a full vacation.  If you’d like more information on dates and prices, please send me an email at kimberly@tinksmagicalvacations.com. I’d be happy to put together a quote for you and as always, there is no extra charge for my services.

Be sure to check out my upcoming posts on Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Resort and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort!