Disney Quietly Increases Cost of Halloween Merchandise by 30%
Halloween may be creeping into Disneyland Resort, but another trend is equally present across Disney parks: rising prices and higher spending. Guests continue to plan dream vacations despite inflation, and Disney’s latest financial results reveal just how much they are willing to pay once they arrive.
Earlier this month, The Walt Disney Company, led by Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger, shared its fiscal third-quarter earnings. One highlight was Disney Experiences—the division responsible for theme parks, resorts, cruises, and consumer products—which posted $9.09 billion in revenue, an 8% increase from last year. Domestic parks alone accounted for $6.4 billion, up 10%, thanks to higher guest spending, more resort stays, and an uptick in cruise sailings.
Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston addressed concerns about U.S. consumer trends, noting during the earnings call, “I know there’s a lot of concern about the consumer in the U.S. right now. We don’t see it. Our consumer is doing very, very well.”
For Walt Disney World in Florida, this perspective has been key. Even with park attendance fluctuating, leadership is confident because guests are spending more per visit. From variable pricing on the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass to higher costs for hard-ticket events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the company has shown no hesitation in aligning with its higher-spending visitors.
Sometimes those changes are felt in big ways—like special event tickets—but they can also appear in smaller details. At Disneyland Resort this fall, for example, a light-up Zero straw clip inspired by The Nightmare Before Christmas has gone from $7.49 in 2024 to $9.75 this year, a nearly 30% increase. Each guest is limited to two, and the seasonal popularity of Jack Skellington’s ghostly pup makes it a likely target for resellers. In fact, a 2024 version is already listed on eBay for $30.
Of course, merchandise is only part of the Halloween season at Disneyland Resort. The Oogie Boogie Bash, Disney California Adventure’s after-hours Halloween event, has returned for 2025 with more event nights than ever before. Running August 17 through October 31, the party welcomes guests to a villain-filled evening featuring the Frightfully Fun Parade led by the Headless Horseman, the atmospheric walkthrough Villains Grove, and interactive treat trails starring Disney’s most mischievous characters.
Tickets went on sale June 24 for Inspire Key holders, June 25 for all Magic Key holders, and June 26 for the general public, ranging from $139 to $199 depending on the date. Guests may enter the park as early as 3:00 p.m. ahead of the 6:00 p.m. start, with festivities continuing until 11:00 p.m. Unlimited PhotoPass downloads, exclusive food and drinks, and limited-time merchandise like spirit jerseys and sippers add to the event’s appeal.
Even as Disney carefully balances affordability with premium experiences, one thing is clear: guests are still showing up, still spending, and still eager to take part in seasonal magic.