I've been to the Christmas Party the last two years and will be going again this year, and I've never had to wait behind more than 3-5 people for hot chocolate. I'm not a sugar cookie person & haven't had one since I tried it that first year, but the hot chocolate is quite yummy. I stop by the treat stands several times during the night for another cup.
They do let you stay in the park if you have the wristband, or they'll let you in after 6 & give you your wristband. The only thing is they'll herd all the partygoers to one land (last year was Tomorrowland, but this year's Halloween party herded us to Fantasyland) while they clear everyone else out of the park. Then they open it up for everyone to go on in. If you get there at 6 you can go straight to get your picture taken and the wait shouldn't be bad yet. We got to the Halloween party just after 6, were herded to Fantasyland & got in the photo line in front of Small World, and we only waited behind maybe 10 families at most (and they take that picture *fast*). We were already trick-or-treating and heading to the rides a good bit before the party officially started. You can wait till later if you like, but I seem to remember the lines staying pretty even all night at all 4 parties I've been to so far.
See the later parade if you can; it will be easier to get a good spot. And be sure to watch the fireworks where you can see the front of the castle. Anywhere around the hub is good, or in front of Casey's/Crystal Palace or Plaza Ice Cream would be okay. Too close to the castle and your fireworks view will be a little obstructed, but you'll have a great view of the special surprises.
I'll have more about the Halloween party when I post my trip report, but that's a lot of work & it'll have to wait until I get over my post-trip flu.
*Ethyl*
