Avengers Campus is a relatively new addition to California Adventure, opening its doors to the public in June of 2021. This land is a dream come true for Marvel fans, packed with attractions that will immerse you in the world of superheroes.

In this post, we’ll explore all the must-see attractions, dining experiences, entertainment, shopping, character meet-and-greets, and seasonal events and celebrations. So grab your capes, masks, and web slingers, and let’s get started!

Action-Packed Attractions

Avengers Campus is packed with exciting attractions that will make you feel like a superhero yourself. From fighting alongside with Spider-Man to saving the universe with the Guardians of the Galaxy, there’s an adventure for everyone. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure

This ride is one of the most popular in the park, and for good reason. It’s an immersive experience that puts you in the middle of Spider-Man’s world. You’ll ride in a vehicle that moves you around, allowing you to use web-slinging powers to defeat villains. But what makes this ride truly unique is its interactive gameplay. You’ll be able to use your own hands to sling webs and take down enemies. Keep an eye out for fun facts and Easter eggs hidden throughout the ride!

Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

This attraction takes place in the former Tower of Terror and has been transformed into a thrilling ride that will leave you breathless. You’ll join the Guardians of the Galaxy on a mission to save the universe from destruction. The ride features a drop sequence that will have you screaming in excitement. But don’t worry, Rocket and his friends will be there to guide you through the chaos.

Doctor Strange: Mysteries of the Mystic Arts

This is an interactive show that will take you on a journey with the Sorcerer Supreme himself, Doctor Strange. You’ll learn about his incredible powers and watch him perform magical illusions. This show is a must-see for any Marvel fan.

Power-Up Dining Experiences

After all that excitement, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, Avengers Campus is packed with dining experiences that will satisfy your cravings and give you the energy you need to keep going. From giant pretzels to cosmic-themed desserts, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the must-try dining experiences:

Pym Test Kitchen

This restaurant is all about inventive dishes that use Pym Particles to create unique flavors and sizes. You’ll find everything from giant pretzels to shrunken meatballs. But don’t worry, the flavors are as big as ever. Some must-try menu items include the Not So Little Chicken Sandwich and the Impossible Spoonful.

Shawarma Palace

This quick-service restaurant is a nod to The Avengers, where the heroes celebrated their victory with delicious shawarma. You’ll find a variety of wraps inspired by your favorite superheroes, including the New York’s Tastiest and the Impossible Victory Falafel.

Terran Treats

This snack stand is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth. You’ll find sweet and colorful cosmic creations like Churro spirals with unique dipping sauces and Cosmic Cream Orb desserts.

Entertainment and Live Performances

In addition to the attractions and dining experiences, Avengers Campus is also packed with entertainment and live performances that will keep you engaged and excited. From acrobatic battles to empowering lessons from Wakanda’s warriors, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see entertainment options:

Avengers Assemble: Rooftop Stunt Show

This show is a high-energy battle that features acrobatics, stunts, and pyrotechnics. You’ll see your favorite heroes battling it out against their greatest foes. Be sure to get there early for the best viewing spots.

The Dora Milaje Training Session

This interactive experience will teach you about Wakanda’s warriors and empower you with their lessons. You’ll have the chance to participate in a training session and learn how to be a true hero. This experience is engaging and fun for all ages.

Spider-Man Stuntacular

This live-action show features Spider-Man performing incredible stunts and fighting off his enemies. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as Spider-Man swings through the air and saves the day.

Heroic Encounters and Surprise Appearances

Throughout the park, you’ll find pop-up performances and character sightings. Keep your eyes peeled for your favorite heroes, and don’t be afraid to stop and say hello.

Shopping for Superhero Gear

No superhero adventure would be complete without some gear to help you save the day. Avengers Campus is packed with shopping experiences that will help you gear up like a true hero. From Spider-Bots to limited-edition pins, there’s something for every Marvel fan. Here are some of the must-visit stores:

WEB Suppliers

This store is home to exclusive Spider-Man and Avengers merchandise. You’ll find everything from t-shirts to action figures. But the real highlight of this store is the customizable Spider-Bots. You can build and customize your own Spider-Bot to take home with you.

The Collector’s Warehouse

This store is home to Marvel collectibles and apparel. You’ll find unique souvenirs to commemorate your adventure, including Funko Pop! figures and limited-edition pins.

Campus Supply Pod

This store is dedicated to all things Avengers Campus. You’ll find everything from t-shirts to hats, and even a Thanos Infinity Gauntlet. This is the perfect place to find a souvenir that will help you remember your adventure.

Character Meet-and-Greets and Photo Ops

One of the highlights of any Disney park is the chance to meet your favorite characters. Avengers Campus is no exception. You’ll have the chance to interact with iconic Marvel superheroes and snap some unforgettable photos. Here are some of the must-visit character meet-and-greets:

Spider-Man

You’ll have the chance to meet Spider-Man and take a photo with him. He’s always ready to sling some webs and save the day.

Black Panther and the Dora Milaje

You’ll have the chance to meet Black Panther and the Dora Milaje and take a photo with them. They’ll teach you about Wakanda and pose for a photo with you.

Captain America

You’ll have the chance to meet Captain America and take a photo with him. He’s always ready to fight for justice and pose for a photo with you.

Heroic landmarks and scenic spots

In addition to character meet-and-greets, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to snap photos with heroic landmarks and scenic spots. Don’t forget to take a photo with the Quinjet for the perfect Marvel-inspired snapshot.

Seasonal Events and Celebrations

Avengers Campus is home to festive seasonal events and celebrations that are sure to get you in the superhero spirit. From Halloween parties to Christmas celebrations, there’s always something special happening. Here are some of the must-visit events:

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort

During Halloween, Avengers Campus is home to an Oogie Boogie Bash Treat Trail featuring Agatha from the Disney+ series, Wandavision. You can find her in the Sanctum in the center of the land.

Never fear if you’re not able to secure a ticket to Oogie Boogie Bash, however. Mission Breakout receives a seasonal overlay as well with Monsters After Dark, where the creatures of Tivan’s collections have broken free and are looking for an escape. Help Rocket to save his friends – before it’s too late!

Tips and Tricks for an Unstoppable Adventure

Now that you know everything there is to know about Avengers Campus, it’s time to plan your adventure. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your visit.

Virtual Queues and Genie+ recommendations

Both Avenger’s Campus rides are included in the Genie+ service, allowing you to reserve a return window and skip the line.

A single rider line is also available at WEBslingers if you are visiting alone or able to break-up your party. Both rides can get very busy throughout the day, so we recommend using these strategies to secure the experience.

Best times to visit attractions and experiences

Try to visit the most popular attractions early in the morning or late in the evening when crowds are smaller. You’ll be able to enjoy the attractions without having to wait in long lines.

Planning your day at Avengers Campus

Be sure to plan your day at Avengers Campus in advance. Make a list of the attractions, dining experiences, and entertainment that you don’t want to miss. This will help you make the most of your visit and ensure that you don’t miss out on anything.

Avengers Campus is an exciting addition to California Adventure that is sure to delight Marvel fans of all ages. From thrilling attractions to power-up dining experiences, entertainment, shopping, character meet-and-greets, and seasonal events and celebrations, there’s something for everyone at Avengers Campus. So what are you waiting for? Grab your web slingers and join the adventure!

Who’s your favorite Marvel hero? Let us know in the comments below!

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In this post, we’ll take you on a journey through Grizzly Peak, highlighting the best attractions, dining options, shopping experiences, and seasonal events. So grab your backpack, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget!

Grizzly Peak is a land inspired by California’s national parks and wilderness areas. It features breathtaking landscapes, towering trees, and thrilling attractions that will take you on an adventure through the great outdoors. As you explore Grizzly Peak, you’ll discover that it’s full of surprises and hidden gems that will make your day at California Adventures even more fun and exciting.

Thrilling Attractions

Grizzly Peak is home to some of the most thrilling attractions at California Adventures. From water rides to flight simulators, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite attractions:

Grizzly River Run

Get ready to get wet on Grizzly River Run, the ultimate water ride at California Adventures. This rafting adventure will take you through the rapids and waterfalls of Grizzly Peak, providing thrills and spills for all ages. The ride has a storyline that follows the adventure of a group of rafters who have set out to explore the great outdoors.

There’s a few surprises on this fan favorite attraction including a brief transit through a dark cavern and a large waterfall drop. With a height requirement of 42″ this ride is mostly for the big kids.

PRO Tip: Use the Single Rider Line to save some time in line, as long as your group doesn't mind being broken up.

Redwood Creek Challenge Trail

If you’re looking for an interactive play area where you can climb, zipline, and explore the great outdoors, Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is the perfect attraction for you. This trail is a playground for adventurers of all ages, featuring rope bridges, rock walls, and other challenges that will put your skills to the test.

While all are welcome to enjoy this attraction, the zipline and rock climb wall each have a 42″ height requirement.

Soarin’ Around the World

Take flight on Soarin’ Around the World, a breathtaking flight simulator that will take you on a journey to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the Great Wall of China to the Eiffel Tower, you’ll fly over some of the most beautiful places on earth. Make sure to keep an eye out for hidden gems, such as the Matterhorn and the Maldives. This ride will leave you feeling inspired and awestruck.

Soarin’ has a height requirement of 40″ and also houses a Single Rider Line. Our favorite thing about this attraction though, is each spring when the original Soarin’ Over California film returns for the California Adventure Food and Wine Festival.

Scenic Dining Options

Grizzly Peak offers a variety of dining options that will satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst. From burgers to craft beers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite dining options:

Smokejumpers Grill

If you’re looking for a tasty burger, sandwich, or salad, Smokejumpers Grill is the place to go. This restaurant is dedicated to California’s brave firefighters and features a rustic and charming atmosphere.

You can also enjoy outdoor seating and scenic views of Grizzly Peak while you dine. Smokejumpers Grill is one of just a few locations in DCA where you can grab breakfast.

Refreshment Point

If you’re looking for a place to grab a quick drink, Refreshment Point is the perfect spot for you. This outdoor cart offers customizable beverages from several Coke Freestyle machines and snacks that will satisfy your cravings. You can also enjoy scenic views of Grizzly Peak and the surrounding wilderness.

Character Encounters

Grizzly Peak is home to some of Disney‘s most beloved characters and entertainment offerings. From wilderness explorers to live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite character encounters and entertainment options:

• Chip and Dale (near Soarin’ exit)
• Goofy in his flight outfit (near Soarin’ exit)
• Doug from Up (Redwood Creek Challenge Entrance)
• Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde from Zootopia (near Grizzly River Run Water Wheel)

Shopping for Adventure Gear

If you’re looking for apparel and gear for your next exploration, Grizzly Peak has you covered. From merchandise to souvenirs, there’s something for everyone to take home. Here are some of our favorite shopping experiences:

Rushin’ River Outfitters

If you’re a fan of Grizzly Peak and California Adventures, Rushin’ River Outfitters is the place to go. This shop offers a variety of merchandise, including apparel, pins, and other souvenirs that will help you remember your adventure. You can also find gear for your next exploration, such as hats, backpacks, and water bottles.

Humphrey’s Service & Supplies

If you’re looking for snacks, souvenirs, and essentials, Humphrey’s Service & Supplies is the perfect shop for you. This shop is themed after Disney‘s classic character, Humphrey the Bear, and offers a variety of items that will satisfy your cravings and help you prepare for your next adventure.

Natural Landmarks and Scenic Spots

Grizzly Peak is full of natural landmarks and scenic spots that will take your breath away. From waterfalls to towering trees, there’s something for everyone to discover. Here are some of our favorite natural landmarks and scenic spots:

Grizzly Peak Waterfall

If you’re looking for a picturesque photo opportunity, Grizzly Peak Waterfall is the perfect spot for you. This waterfall is located near Grizzly River Run and provides a beautiful backdrop for your photos. You can also cool off in the mist and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere.

The Redwood Forest

If you’re looking for an immersive nature trail, the Redwood Forest is the perfect spot for you. This trail will take you through towering trees and provide a serene escape from the park’s hustle and bustle. You can also discover the beauty of California’s redwood forests and learn about conservation.

Brother Bear Totem Trail

If you’re a fan of Disney‘s “Brother Bear,” you’ll love exploring the Brother Bear Totem Trail. This trail is themed after the movie and features fun and educational displays that will teach you about California’s wilderness. You can also take unique photo opportunities with the totems and discover the beauty of California’s wildlife.

Seasonal Events and Celebrations

Grizzly Peak offers a variety of seasonal events and celebrations that will make your day at California Adventures even more special. From character encounters to themed treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of our favorite seasonal events and celebrations:

Villains Grove (Halloween)

Each fall Redwood Creek Challenge transforms for a nighttime celebration of all things spooky, but mostly villains. The walkthrough attraction features a spectacular display of sound, lightening, and special effects to evoke the environment of your favorite evil-doer’s. This attraction is available only during Oogie Boogie Bash.

Treat Trails (Halloween)

While specific trails and characters featured at Oogie Boogie Bash, you can normally find at least one in Grizzly Peak. Most recently, in 2023, we found Mother Gothel along the Grizzly River Run walking trail, and Judge Doom in the area next to Soarin’ Over the World.

Meet Santa (Christmas)

During Disney California Adventure’s Festival of the Holidays, you can also find a jolly ol’ figure waiting for you to stop by. Santa Clause is ready for your Christmas list!

Tips and Tricks

If you want to make the most out of your adventure at Grizzly Peak, here are some tips and tricks that will help you plan your day:

Genie+ Recommendations

If you want to avoid long lines at attractions, consider using Genie+. This services will allow you to reserve your spot in line and enjoy shorter wait times. You can also get recommendations for the best times to visit attractions and trails.

Best Times to Visit Attractions and Trails

If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy shorter wait times, make sure to visit attractions and trails during off-peak hours. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the best times to visit, as crowds are typically smaller.

Planning Your Day at Grizzly Peak

If you want to make the most out of your day at Grizzly Peak, make sure to plan your day in advance. You can use the Disneyland app to check wait times, reserve lightening lanes, and discover the best attractions and trails to visit.

Grizzly Peak is a land full of natural beauty and exciting adventures that will make your day at California Adventures unforgettable. From thrilling attractions to scenic dining options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We hope that this guide has inspired you to explore Grizzly Peak and connect with nature. Thank you for reading, and we look forward to hearing about your favorite attraction in Grizzly Peak!

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It’s time for the ultimate Disney Halloween Party showdown. Each year Disney parks on both coasts host exclusive, hard-ticketed, limited-capacity festive parties. For most of us, venturing to both is simply out of the question. Let’s talk Oogie Boogie Bash vs Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party.

Event Details

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party kicks off the season first, with parties at Magic Kingdom beginning in August. In the past tickets have ranged from $109 – $199 for adults, depending on the date.

The party officially starts at 7:00 p.m., but you can enter the park as early as 4:00 p.m. with your ticket. While the park will officially close at 6:00 p.m., partygoers can enjoy the event until midnight!

Oogie Boogie Bash holds its first party of the season at Disney California Adventure, in early September. Slightly pricier than MNSSHP, tickets start at $119 for adults and can be as high as $209 on Halloween night.

California Adventure will close to day guests at 6:00 p.m. when the party begins. Your Oogie Boogie Bash ticket will get you in the park as early as 3:00 p.m. The party goes until 11:00 p.m.

Trick or Treat Trails

Asking strangers for candy is the bread and butter of Halloween, and this holds true at the Disney parties. Both have a collection of walk-through queues where cast members will dole out handfuls of candy. There are a few components that define quality trails:

Quantity: Mickey’s Not So Scary wins here with 15 treat trails, including several inside of attractions. OBB has just 10.

Candy Distribution: Both parties have roughly the same type of candy, but one stands out here. Oogie Boogie Bash has more stations per trail and cast members will load you up. Some of the OBB trails also have sun chips, grapes, and apple slices. Does it make me feel old to say I want apple slices for Halloween? Absolutely, but variety is the spice of life.

Location and Spread: Those 15 trails at Mickey’s Halloween Party are all over the park, and it’s not a small one. At Oogie Boogie Bash there may be fewer trails but they’re closer together and you’ll want to hit each more than once – trust me.

Treat Trail Winner – Oogie Boogie Bash

Characters

There’s not contest when it comes to characters at these dual coast Halloween parties. Oogie Boogie Bash wins by a landslide, and let me tell you why. The party is absolutely littered with villains and rare meet and greets. I nearly ran into the evil witch from Snow White making my way to a treat trail.

Oh, and the treat trails have characters. Nine of the ten treat trails host a Disney villain from Cruella to Mother Gothel and the man of the hour himself, Oogie Boogie. You can find ultra rare characters like King Richard and Madam Mim throughout the park. Not to mention the holy grail of Halloween party cameos – Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle as the Sanderson Sisters.

Mickey’s Not So Scary has fun meet and greets, including Jack and Sally and the Seven Dwarves. But the lines to meet these characters are hours long. There are some roaming characters as well including Cinderella’s evil step sisters and characters from Alice in Wonderland. While it’s fun to see them walking around the parks, they’re not particularly related to the holiday. And this is pretty typical back in Disneyland every day (which is one reason it’s superior to Magic Kingdom).

Winner – Oogie Boogie Bash

Ride Overlays

It pains me to give either of these parties a point since the OBB overlays are not party exclusive and MNSSHP overlays are boring. Sorry, not sorry.

California Adventure has a seasonal version of Guardians of the Galaxy Mission Breakout, Tow-Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters. They’re all winners but you don’t need an Oogie Boogie Bash ticket to experience them.

You can also find Villains Grove, an immersive walkthrough experience at the Redwood Creek Challenge. Areas along the trail are decorated with special lighting effects to represent different Disney villains. This is actually a really cool concept but for me the execution falls a bit short. It feels like waiting in line for Haunted Mansion Holiday only to find out it’s just normal Haunted Mansion. Villains Grove is incomplete, it needs some kind of interaction or kinetic activity.

Over in Magic Kingdom we have Deep Space Mountain, where they turn all the lights off, Graveyard ghosts at Haunted Mansion, and a special lighting package at the Mad Tea Party. The Graveyard ghosts are a lot of fun and defiantly a highlight each year, but the line moves so quickly that you won’t get much time with them.

Winner – Mickey’s Not So Scary, I guess.

Parades

The differences between each party’s parade are night and day, and the winner will really depend on your preference. Oogie Boogie Bash is a very villain heavy parade with specialized floats for characters like Dr. Facilier and Cheshire Cat that you won’t get at Magic Kingdom. The Frightfully Fun Parade runs from Paradise Gardens to Avenger’s Campus.

It’s nearly impossible to navigate California Adventure during the parade. You are stuck in one half of the park completely unable to cross over for at least 10 minutes after the parade, which is already 20 minutes. Considering the party is just 5 hours it’s upsetting that your ability to access parts of the event is severely hindered for twenty percent of it.

Boo to You! is the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party parade, which runs from Frontierland to Main Street. Floats in this parade are much more family friendly featuring the Fab Five as well as a sprinkling of select villains and rare characters. The soundtrack is infamous among its fans and catchier than Small World.

Parade Winner – Mickey’s Not So Scary. While I love the special guests and more sinister vibes of Oogie Boogie Bash Frightfully Fun Parade, nothing beats a parade on Main Street. Added bonus, Boo to You! doesn’t block major traffic arteries in the park.

Nighttime Entertainment

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party hosts the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular as well as Mickey’s Not So Scary Spooktacular. There is no nighttime entertainment at Oogie Boogie Bash.

Hocus Pocus is a stage show featuring the three Sanderson sisters and an entourage of every Disney Villain you can name. It takes place 5-6 times per night, depending on the date, and is extremely popular. Viewing near Cinderella’s Castle gets extremely crowded for this must see show, even for the final performance at midnight.

Mickey’s Spooktacular is a firework spectacular hosted by a larger than life Jack Skellington. The skies are illuminated as Mickey, Minnie, and friends take you on a journey through a haunted house. The show takes place just one time per party making it a bit of a Hunger Games situation to get anywhere neat the castle hub. You can see the fireworks from almost anywhere in the park but the caste projection show and giant Jack puppet are only visible at the end of Main Street.

Nighttime Entertainment Winner – Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Our Pick

Its so hard to play favorites, but for me the winner in this Halloween Showdown is Oogie Boogie Bash. When attending one of these events my priority is experiences that aren’t otherwise available. Sure, you can argue that Mickey’s Not So Scary has more of these experiences in the nighttime entertainment alone. But, you can watch those shows on YouTube – in better quality and without fighting the crowds.

Oogie Boogie Bash with it’s character laden trick or treat trails and villain heavy presence just does it for me. It’s the more grown-up of the two parties with an emphasis on big-kid rides, scary characters, and alcohol. It’s giving college Halloween party, and I cannot get enough.

However, if I was attending with children I’d go with Mickey’s Not So Scary. This event is more kid friendly with an emphasis on family fun and classic characters. The nighttime shows give adults a special something to make up for the sugar sweet version of the holiday Magic Kingdom represents.

So, which would you like to attend?

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It was everything in between. There were also plenty of drinks available, as it was held in DCA. In this guide, I’ll share with you what to do and what not to do at Oogie Boogie Bash.

Early entry

Oogie Boogie Bash takes place on select nights from September through Halloween at California Adventure. The party starts at 7:00 PM and goes until midnight. With a party ticket, you can enter the park 3 hours early, starting at 4:00 PM.

On my first party day, I already had a reservation for Disney California Adventure in the morning. I was visiting with some family from out of town, and we wanted to enjoy the park before the party.

Pixie Pros: Party days are a great day to visit California Adventures. The park is like a ghost town, no pun intended.

If you are already in the parks at 4:00pm you can get your wristband inside. There are multiple wristband distribution locations inside the park, which you can read about in our guide to Oogie Boogie Bash.

I went to the winery wristband location near Carsland, and waited for about 5 minutes to get my wristband. Meanwhile, the lines to enter the park were backed up across the Esplanade all the way to Disneyland.

If you have the opportunity to enter through the standard day line or the annual pass queue, do it. You can avoid waiting for the party entrance and save a lot of time.

What To Do Before Oogie Boogie Bash Starts

Once you enter, you’ll have about 3 hours before the party officially begins. During this time, there are a couple of overlays available and you can purchase specialty beverages, snacks, food, and more. There are also photo opportunities around the park, like those postcard pictures you may have seen.

If you had already been at the park earlier that day, I wasn’t particularly interested in rushing around to rewrite everything. I just wanted to sit back, enjoy the party vibes, and have a good time. I headed over to the Hollywood Lounge to get a drink, but I had to wait for 45 minutes to purchase a beer because mobile order wasn’t available at the time.

It was around 4:30 PM and the next pick-up window was at 7:15 PM, which was too long of a wait for me. Eventually, I got my drink and found a place to sit down and enjoy it.

Meeting the Sanderson Sisters

While I was there, I noticed a line forming to meet Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle dressed as the Sanderson Sisters. I knew this was a popular attraction at the party and the line could get crazy long. However, the line didn’t seem that long at the time, so I decided to join it. I figured it didn’t make much difference if I drank my beer sitting on the curb watching others queue or if I drank it in the line by myself.

Unfortunately, once the queue opened and we started moving, I realized that the line was much longer than I had initially thought. There were about six switchbacks hidden behind the Hollywood Lounge building that I hadn’t noticed before. I ended up waiting for about an hour and a half to meet Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle in their Sanderson Sisters costumes. I considered leaving the line to do something else. But at a certain point, I had already invested so much time that I felt I needed to see it through.

Later, I found out that if I had waited a couple of hours and come back, there wouldn’t have been a line at all. I walked by on the second night around 8:00 PM and there was nobody there. You could just walk up.

Lesson learned

It seems like no matter what activity you choose to do first at the Halloween party, there will be a line. I discuss why this is in my review of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party in Magic Kingdom. Primarily, I think it’s because there’s a lot of time between when guests arrive and when the party officially starts. If they started queuing up with this in mind, it would be more efficient.

On my second trip to Oogie Boogie Bash, I decided to wait until the party started around 7:00 PM to head over.

Trick or treat trails at Oogie Boogie Bash

With the party now in full swing, I decided to move on to the main event for the evening: trick or treat trails. Okay, Buddy Bashes is a really unique Halloween party for Disney because they incorporate the characters into the activities. It’s not like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, where you have to go to see characters or go get candy. Here, you can do both because the characters are at the end of the queue.

Making my way through the trick-or-treat trails. I got to see Oogie Boogiehimself, Cruella de Vil (the new live-action Emma Stone version), Ernesto from Coco, Agatha, and Judge Doom. I did go by the line for Sid from Toy Story, but it was far too long. Also, Sid terrifies me.

All the characters were great, but I think Oogie Boogie is probably my favorite. I like that part of the queue is indoors, and I like the atmosphere in the room around it. It’s not just the character; Cruella is another notable favorite of mine. The stage is decked out in all of her creations. I also like that they represented her origin story instead of the misunderstood character from 101 Dalmatians.

The Judge Doom line was interesting. It was exciting to see Roger Rabbit represented, but at the same time, it was a little creepy. He actually had a cartoon prop that he stuck in the dip while everyone was in line, and that was a step over for me.

Maybe they went a bit too far with that. However, it was so cool to see the representation and the effort they had for him was fantastic. It felt like he just walked off the screen.

Meeting characters

Well, it was fun to see the characters in line. Honestly, my favorite kind of interaction with the characters is a quick encounter like that. There were plenty more characters to see at the event.

As I mentioned, I did get to do the meet and greet and get a picture with Clarabelle and Daisy dressed as the Sanderson sisters. It was a super cute picture, but it was very rushed. Again, I recommend going later in the evening if that’s what you want to do.

In addition, you can also meet rare characters like Lotso or Carl from Up. Hans and Jafar were there too. I even saw the evil witch from Snow White roaming around Cathar Circle at the end of the night. Personally, I’m not a big fan of character meet and greets. It freaks me out, but if that’s your thing, there are plenty of opportunities.

Villains Grove

In the midst of all the trick-or-treating and character spotting, I decided to take a trip through Villains Grove. This is one of the attractions I was most looking forward to at the Halloween party. It’s a cool little overlay of the Redwood Creek Challenge area, transformed with projections, lights, and special effects to create the atmosphere of a villain’s lair.

As soon as I entered, I was greeted with an eerie ambiance that transported me into darkness and intrigue. The attention to detail was astounding, with every display meticulously designed to represent different Disney villains.

Walking through Villains Grove was like stepping into a twisted fairytale. The path was lined with eerie lights that cast haunting shadows across the surroundings. Sinister music filled the air, intensifying the sense of foreboding. It was a truly immersive experience that captured the essence of the Disney villains perfectly.

Favorite Moments

One of the highlights for me was the section dedicated to Alice in Wonderland. As I ventured further into the grove, I stumbled upon a scene straight out of Wonderland itself. The Cheshire Cat’s mischievous grin glowed in the darkness, while the Mad Hatter’s hat sat atop a table adorned with peculiar trinkets. It was a whimsical nod to a character who straddles the line between hero and villain.

Although the wait time for Villains Grove was around 30 minutes, it felt much shorter due to the captivating atmosphere. The Imagineers truly outdid themselves in creating an immersive environment that pulled me into the world of Disney villains. Each display was thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the unique traits and personalities of the characters. From Maleficent’s imposing presence to Ursula’s tentacles reaching out from the shadows, every detail was designed to transport visitors into the depths of villainy.

While Villains Grove was primarily a visual spectacle, I couldn’t help but wish for a bit more interactivity. It would have been exciting to encounter some drive-by characters or stumble upon trick-or-treat stations hidden within the grove. These additions would have elevated the experience and added an extra layer of excitement. Nonetheless, even as a light show, Villains Grove was a mesmerizing experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Is Villains Grove Worth the Wait?

If you find yourself in the Grizzly Peak area and notice that the line for Villains Grove is moving swiftly, I highly recommend taking the opportunity to explore this unique attraction. The combination of projections, lights, and special effects creates an otherworldly atmosphere that will leave you in awe. However, if you have limited time during the Halloween party, I would suggest prioritizing other activities that offer a more interactive experience. Villains Grove is a fantastic addition to the event, but it may not be the absolute must-see attraction.

Frightfully Fun Parade

As the night was winding down I made my way back over to Hollywood Boulevard to stake out a spot for the parade. One of the best tips for attending any of the Halloween parties is to go to the second parade. This is especially true in California where you don’t have to worry about the weather. You should be good to go with the second parade.

I staked out my spot pretty early, about an hour before the parade began. I had gone through most of the trick-or-treat lines and Dylan’s Grove, and hit all of my top priorities for the evening. So, I got myself an adult beverage and went to secure my spot.

I was glad that I got there early because when everything started filling up for the second parade, it started to get crowded on the curbs about 20 minutes before the parade. People were still walking up even at the last minute.

You do have to be careful when you sit down to stake out a spot early like I did, though, because the ropes aren’t always out. You don’t want to lose your spot because you have to move. Just be aware of where you are sitting and ask a cast member if you want to be certain if you are in a safe spot.

The Parade Rocks

The parade at Oogie Boogie Bash is the Frightfully Fun Parade. It is led by not just the Horseless Headman, but also Ichabod Crane. The scene starts with Pickle Bud Crane carrying his lamp and running down the road away from the Headless Horseman in Sleepy Hollow, who is out to find a head.

This is immediately followed by the hardest working person at the Halloween party, who has to clean up after the horse that the Headless Horseman rides. If you go to a Halloween party and see this person in the parade, be sure to give them a nice round of applause for what they’re doing, because it’s probably the worst possible job you would want to have.

And then, the true parade kicks off. I’m really not much of a parade person, but I make an exception for nighttime parades. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of the Electrical Main Street Parade, or maybe it’s because it’s the end of the night and people need a good excuse to sit down and still experience some magic. For me, nighttime parades are where it’s at, and this one did not disappoint.

Favorite Floats

Each float or parade unit represents a different character or franchise from Disney, starting with Mickey and Minnie and going through many different iterations, finally ending with the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland, which is always my favorite.

It’s worth noting that the floats from The Nightmare Before Christmas, the Mayor’s car and the Jack and Sally float, are particularly impressive. Anything from The Nightmare Before Christmas is a must-see during Halloween and Christmas.

I also love the Dr. Facilier float and the creatures on stilts. The spirits that come out before it are so creepy, it gives me the creeps every time. But the float itself is a work of art. It has carved faces all over it, and the tree is magnificent and beautiful.

Final Thoughts About Oogie Boogie Bash

I had a great time at Oogie Boogie Bash. I must say, the second night was even better than the first. The second night, which was on a Thursday, seemed to have more people, but I felt like I was able to accomplish and see a lot more.

The Halloween vibe at Disney California Adventure (DCA) is unique and enjoyable. The playlist was on point and the costumes were amazing. It was a great experience for everyone, especially with the addition of drinks, which is unique to DCA.

One important takeaway is that during the first half hour to 45 minutes of the party, there were long lines for everything. Other party guests had been queuing up since they were allowed to enter the park three hours earlier, causing congestion. For future events, I may consider not entering the park before the party starts. With the late hours of the party, I would prefer to sleep in and arrive later to fully enjoy the party activities.

There is a lot to see and do, so it’s important to have a plan and prioritize what you want to experience. Familiarize yourself with the event and what it offers. The ticket costs $160 per person, so it’s likely you have already done some research.

However, if you’re preparing to attend, it’s a good idea to do a little more and make sure you know what’s important to you and what attractions are available. Keep in mind that there aren’t many signs indicating the Halloween-themed areas or the trick-or-treat trail, so knowing what’s there beforehand is crucial.

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Well, parts of it are spooky but most of it is just downright fun. After the last few years of limitations and restrictions – I think we’re all ready to see what the parks have to offer now that they’re back in full force! So let’s take a look at all the Halloween fun happening in 2022 at Disneyland!

Seasonal Ride Overlays

Each year the ghosts and ghouls take over their favorite rides to bring guests a new experience. In 2022 there are four unique Halloween ride experiences being offered.

Haunted Mansion Holiday

September 2, 2022 – 12/31/2022?

Everyone’s favorite Holiday overlay is back again in 2022! Enjoy one of Disneyland Parks’s most popular attractions with a seasonal twist as Jack Skellington and his crew have taken over The Haunted Mansion. While Haunted Mansion is not necessarily unique to Disneyland, this iteration can only be found here. Look carefully at the large dining table during the ballroom scene – a new custom gingerbread house is built each year! The line for this ride gets extremely long this time of year, so be sure to head that way early in the day or snag a reservation with Genie+!

Monsters After Dark

September 2, 2022 – October 31, 2022

Right next door, in California Adventures, monsters have taken over Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout. Honestly, I was more than a bit skeptical about this overlay the first time I rode. Mission Breakout is a great ride – but it’s a fairly simple drop tower, in terms of the ride experience. But the way that the Halloween overlay plot is woven with the existing set and story is….genius! From the first steps inside the tower, you know this is going to be an altogether different experience. You do not want to miss this one!

Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween and Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree

September 2, 2022 – October 31, 2022

Over in Carsland both Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters and Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree will be decked out for Halloween! Decorations include seasonal lighting and music, making it fun without being too scary. Each of these unique rides is perfect for kids and families.

Character Meet and Greets

They’re baaaaaaack! FINALLY! After nearly two full years without hugs and hello’s from everyone’s favorite characters, and at a time when we all needed them the most, meet and greets are back this Halloween season at Disneyland! The Fab Five will be out in about in their spirited bests sporting shades of orange and purple. You’ll also find many rare characters making appearances including Jack and Sally, Miguel from Coco, and villains galore – including Maleficent, Hades, Evil Queen, and more! Lightning McQueen and Tow-Mater are ready to show off their costumes for this year in Carsland!

Festivals and Parties

The celebrations are on at Disneyland this Halloween! Some are paid, included with price of a day ticket – and even something completely free. How often does that happen?! Get ready to party!

Oogie Boogie Bash

Available most nights in September and October this special ticketed event is just $129. The party starts at 6:00 pm (until 11:00 pm), but you’ll be able to enter as early as 3:00 pm. With eight full hours of in-park time, with reduced crowds, the price is always worth it. The party takes place at California Adventure where you can find trick-or-treat trails, a Halloween parade, unique character meet and greets – and more! Check back for the 2022 Guide to the Oogie Boogie Bash!

Plaza de la Familia

Celebrate Mexico’s Day of the Dead, a holiday to commemorate and remember lost family and friends, with Coco at Plaza de la Familia in California Adventures. This beautiful festival can be found in Paradise Gardens, near Goofy’s Fly School. Here you can meet Miguel, catch a musical celebration, and leave a message of remembrance at the Arbol de la Vida.

Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit

September 9, 2022 – October 31, 2022

Downtown you can join in the fun of an old-fashioned scavenger hunt! Keep your eyes peeled, while roaming around the area, for character-carved pumpkins. Maps are available for purchase, and include a prize when you find all of the pumpkins, but are not required.

Haloween Screams Fireworks

Select Nights in September and October

Is it really a day at Disney without fireworks filling the night sky? It’s the quintessential finale for the magic! Top off your trip with the Halloween Screams fireworks show, led by the true pumpkin king – Jack Skellington, and his pet dog Zero. As the name suggests….it’s a screaming good time.

Merch, Food, and Ambiance – oh my!

Throughout both parks and the Downtown area, you’ll find a litany of delights. From mystical merchandise to frightfully delicious food, there’s something for everyone.

What are you most looking forward to this year for Halloween at Disney?

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