Securing tickets for Oogie Boogie Nite was a feat in itself in 2023. After a day spent in the virtual queue without success, we finally snagged our coveted tickets for the exact date we desired. And let me tell you, it was worth every ounce of effort. Oogie Boogie Nite is a special ticketed event that sells out annually, and it's no wonder why – the evening is filled with thrills, chills, and all the enchantment Disney California Adventure has to offer.
Unlike other special events at Disneyland, Oogie Boogie Nite unfolds within the spooky confines of Disney California Adventure. As Halloween enthusiasts, we eagerly embraced the opportunity to dress up. With a nod to our favorite Haunted Mansion characters, my husband EB and our boys, Michael and Sebastian, became the hitchhiking ghosts, while I embodied the sinister elegance of Constance Hatchaway.
Upon check-in at the main entrance, we received event wristbands adorned with special QR codes, granting access to photo opportunities scattered throughout the park. From eerie encounters with Sid from Toy Story to the debut of new villains like Judge Doom from Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Yokai from Big Hero Six, the treat trails offered immersive experiences at every turn. And with free candy aplenty, our trick-or-treat bags were overflowing with sweet delights.
But the festivities didn't end with candy and character encounters. Specialty food items tantalized our taste buds at select restaurants, while exclusive merchandise flew off the shelves faster than a witch on a broomstick. And let's not forget the entertainment – a stroll through Villains Grove immersed us in a haunting spectacle of fog and lights, transforming the tranquil Redwood Creek area into a realm of shadows and mystery.
Twice nightly, the Frightfully Fun Parade mesmerized audiences with its spectral procession, featuring the iconic Headless Horseman leading the way. And for our little ones, Mickey's Trick and Treat Dance Party provided the perfect opportunity to boogie alongside beloved Disney characters. We have filmed both of these shows for you and will link them below!
Ride times are especially short during these events and some rides get a special ride layover for the season, we were easily able to walk onto most of our favorite rides all night long while enjoying the rest of the event along the way.
As we reveled in the magic of Oogie Boogie Nite, we couldn't help but marvel at the event's rich history and cultural significance. Originally inspired by the mischievous villain from "The Nightmare Before Christmas," Oogie Boogie Nite has evolved into a beloved tradition, captivating guests with its blend of Halloween whimsy and Disney enchantment.
What to pack:
In September it will still be warm during the day and even some evenings but in October it will be cold especially after sunset and if you have little ones in a costume, make sure it’s one that is warm and comfortable or pack a second outfit and save it in your locker.
Definitely bring treat bags for the kiddos to carry but after every treat trail or so dump it into a bigger collection bag so they do not have to carry heavy bags through the whole park, trust me there will be a lot of candy! Pro tip: either eat your veggies and fruits right away (some cast members hand our carrots and apple slices), or make sure to check your haul when you get back to your room for the night so you can remove them or they will expire.
Glow sticks a plenty! There are some areas during the night that are darker and some trails the cast members may not see your bag so throw a glow stick in the bag and hand your kiddos some so they are easier to spot in a crowd!
Always bring your refillable water bottles, you definitely still need to hydrate with all that walking and sugar.
Now, without further ado, here are the links to our YouTube videos capturing the spellbinding moments of Oogie Boogie Nite: