Clack…..clack…..clack…..clack…..
Somehow everything goes quiet as the horseman’s hoof beats echo through the streets and symbolize the start of the Boo-to-You Halloween parade. True to Disney form, it’s a completely magical moment.
When I was planning our first Disney trip, I had this secret hope that there was somehow, someway to meet the horseman. I’ve been fascinated with him for the last 40 years, since I was but a wee lass. He is my favorite Halloween characterization at Disney.
The great news is that there are two ways that you can “meet” the horseman. The first is more of an illusion, since it’s just a magic shot, but it still yields some pretty great results if you want to include him in your Halloween vacation. Ask for the magic shot from the Photopass Photographers at the park entrance during Mickey’s Not so Scary Halloween Party. There are several incredible shots available of other scenes as well, which you can find more about on the Disney Park Blogs.
However, the second option leads you to the real deal. You will need a reservation, which is highly limited, and it’s a special event so you’ll need to pay for it up front. The event only occurs on certain nights.
Your journey begins with a small group of other brave souls by heading to the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground. If you’re going to make an evening of it, you might want to make reservations at Trail’s End Restaurant for fortification before your journey. It’s just a short walk away from where you’ll need to be before the event.
As the light fades from the sky (of the first showing) the barn obtains a glow from within.
Guests are then invited inside and given a first photo opportunity as they enter.
After entering, guests check in at a table where they are given their event bling according to the level ticket they purchased and also offered water and popcorn. Then, they are invited to take their seats.
The interior of the barn is decorated and the horses are in their darkened stalls. The effect is amazing with the smell of clean barn and the sound of horses moving and snorting (and occasionally popping their head out of the stall to look at the guests). What a perfect place to view the 1949 animated film, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.”
At the close of the film, the video screen rises and there stands the horseman in all of his glory.
Rows are then called up one by one to have their photo taken with the horseman (don’t blink like Bug did).
Costs for 2018 are as follows:
General Admission: Includes general seating and a commemorative pin – $22 per person
Premium Admission: Includes a commemorative cup (that changes color), a lanyard, a cooler bag full of treats, a photo op, and seating in rows 6-10 – $38 per person
Ultimate Admission: Includes everything the Premium includes, plus seating in the first 6 rows and access to the dessert party – $60 per person
Want to see the bling?
The bag is a nice insulated lunch bag size.
Still curious? Want to see the Return to Sleepy Hollow Dessert Party? Follow me this way……
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