Halloween Parade at Shanghai Disneyland

Location
Shanghai Disneyland Park, Pudong New District, Shanghai, China 🇨🇳 Just a 5-minute walk from the main entrance or take Metro Line 11 to Disney Resort Station 🚇

Opening Hours
In 2025, the Halloween festivities run from October 4 to November 1 ⏰ Donald’s Halloween Treat Cavalcade takes place 1-2 times per night, around 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM (check the Shanghai Disney Resort app daily for special additional shows). Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good spot along the parade route for the best view 🌙

Atmosphere/Location
Entering the Gardens of Imagination in the evening feels like stepping into a world of playful ghosts 👻. The entire park is adorned with orange and purple lights, with the Enchanted Storybook Castle glowing in the background. A gentle breeze carries eerie music through the air. Kids dressed as superheroes and princesses run around, couples hold hands for photos, and the smooth pathways make for easy strolling. The scent of caramel popcorn and roasted pumpkin wafts through the air 😋. While the crowd is large, it’s well-organized by staff, creating a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that’s not too scary for young children.

Highlights
- 🎺 Donald’s Halloween Treat Cavalcade – Led by Donald and Daisy in adorable Halloween costumes, featuring floating parade floats with Maleficent riding a smoke-breathing dragon, Hades striking cool poses, and the Queen of Hearts tossing black heart-shaped balloons, thrilling the kids.
- 🦹♀️ Villains Galore – This year, Mother Gothel from Tangled makes her debut! Some shows feature surprise appearances by Cruella and Gaston from Tomorrowland.
- 🦁 Zootopia Howl-O-Ween – Judy Hopps as a witch and Nick as a werewolf hand out candy to kids, melting hearts with their cuteness.
- 🎆 Lights, Smoke, and Music – Every float features 3D mapping effects on the castle, with lights changing to the rhythm of the Chinese version of "Grim Grinning Ghosts."
- 🍬 Free Candy – Kids in costumes receive candy from characters (bring a tote bag!).

Pricing
- Park Admission: Starting at 356 RMB, depending on the day 🏰
- Parade: Free with park admission 🎟️
Book tickets in advance via the app or Trip.com for convenience and discounts compared to buying at the gate 💸

Rating
4.9/5 ⭐
The parade is short at just 15 minutes, but it’s absolutely worth it! Stunning lights, catchy music, and a full cast of characters make it a delight. Kids laugh non-stop, and adults feel nostalgic 😍. The only downside is the crowd on Fridays and Saturdays, so secure your spot early. Overall, it’s a highlight that makes you want to return every year. Dress up in a Halloween costume and dance along with the floats for the ultimate experience 🎉

Tips
- Wear sneakers for lots of walking.
- Buy a Disney pumpkin raincoat for rain and warmth.
- Take a photo with the castle after the parade ends; the golden lighting is stunning! 📸