DisWorldGuide

This summer, Disney World has undergone several significant changes and launches, especially in Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. From new attractions and parades to seasonal events and updates.

Disney Starlight

The new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight, was launched in Magic Kingdom in July. It premiered a few days earlier than announced and came as a complete surprise to both visitors and fans. The parade was first spotted by guests who happened to be in the park during its debut and is now a regular part of the evening program. It has received glowing reviews for its visual splendor, music, and use of lights and special effects. Many describe it as one of the most atmospheric experiences in the park in years. Social media has been flooded with photos and videos. Currently, you can see Disney Starlight twice each evening, before and after the fireworks. Note that on nights with special events, such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, the parade will not be shown.

Piston Peak National Park

Two classic attractions in Magic Kingdom – Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America – are now permanently closed as part of the development of a new themed land based on the Cars movies. The area, named Piston Peak National Park, will include new attractions featuring characters from the Cars franchise. In July, the water in Rivers of America was drained overnight, and the area was closed off for construction. Disney has confirmed that the Walt Disney World Railroad will remain operational during construction, but with certain adjustments. The changes have sparked strong reactions among fans – some mourn the loss of nostalgic attractions, while others express excitement about the new content and the opportunity for more modern and immersive experiences.

Test Track 3.0

Test Track in EPCOT has undergone a major upgrade and reopened a few days earlier than planned this summer. The new version, often referred to as Test Track 3.0, features improved technology, a new pre-show, and a more interactive driving experience. The design is inspired by futuristic concepts and sustainable transportation. Alongside the reopening, changes were also made to the Multi Pass system in EPCOT: Test Track is now placed in Lightning Lane Group 1, along with Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. Soarin’ has been moved down to Group 2. This affects which three attractions you can select Lightning Lane access for in advance of your visit. Read more about Lightning Lane HERE.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025

The Halloween season is officially underway at Magic Kingdom with the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This separately ticketed event kicked off on August 15 and runs on select nights through October 31. Tickets range from $119 to $229 and allow early park entry at 4:00 PM, with the party running from 7:00 PM to midnight 

This year’s highlights include the dazzling Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks, the fan-favorite Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, and the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular stage show. New for 2025 is the ZOM-BEATZ BASH dance party inspired by ZOMBIES 4, and the chance to meet Mickey and Minnie together at Town Square Theater. Guests can also enjoy trick-or-treating, themed food and drinks, and rare character encounters.

Event Dates:
August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
September: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

Christmas Party

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns to Magic Kingdom in 2025, with events on select nights from November 7 to December 21. Disney opened ticket sales in July, and several dates quickly sold out. The event includes parades, fireworks, character meet-and-greets, exclusive treats, and snowfall on Main Street USA. Prices have increased compared to previous years, and Disney has introduced new premium add-ons that offer access to special seating areas and dessert buffets. Reactions have been mixed – many look forward to the event as a cherished holiday tradition, while others express concern about pricing and availability.

Festival of the Holidays

The EPCOT Festival of the Holidays is also confirmed for December 2025. The festival features cultural celebrations, musical performances, and special menus from around the world, including the Candlelight Processional, Holiday Storytellers, and Gingerbread Exhibits. Disney has announced several new additions to this year’s program, including a new light installation in World Showcase and extended hours for select pavilions. The festival has become a key part of Disney’s holiday offerings and attracts a wide audience eager to experience Christmas in a global way. Many guests have already begun planning their visits, and Disney expects high attendance on weekends throughout December.

Jollywood Nights

Jollywood Nights returns to Hollywood Studios with a glamorous blend of vintage holiday charm and modern entertainment. This separately ticketed event features exclusive shows like Disney Holidays in Hollywood and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, along with rare character encounters, themed treats, and shorter wait times for popular attractions. New highlights this year include Holiday Fiesta en la Calle with Miguel from Coco and the dazzling ice-skating show Glisten!.

Event Dates for 2025:
November 8, 11, 16, 18, 22, 23, 29
December 2, 4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20, 21, 22

Walt Disney World is entering a transformational period that will elevate the park experience to new heights in the coming years. Guests can look forward to a futuristic upgrade of Test Track at EPCOT, a chaotic new Muppets-themed roller coaster at Hollywood Studios, and a revitalized Astro Orbiter at Magic Kingdom. At the same time, the parks are preparing updates for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin and Spaceship Earth. These changes are an exciting blend of innovation, nostalgia, and new storytelling that will shape the future of Disney’s parks.

Test Track 3.0 Accelerates into EPCOT

The highly anticipated Test Track 3.0 officially opens on July 22, 2025, at EPCOT, marking a new era for this high-speed attraction. Developed in collaboration with Chevrolet and inspired by the original World of Motion from 1982, the upgraded version offers a mix of nostalgia and futuristic innovation. The attraction includes six new showrooms, a new musical score, and over 29,000 light points simulating how autonomous vehicles “see” the world through advanced sensors and cameras. The queue area features new interactive elements, and the narrative focuses on the future of mobility and sustainable solutions. Previews for select guests, including Cast Members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club members, begin in mid-July, offering an exclusive glimpse of this reimagined attraction that promises to combine excitement with learning in true EPCOT fashion.

Preview Dates:

• Cast Members: June 27 – July 10, 2025 (ongoing)
• DVC Members: July 12, 2025
• Annual Passholders: July 13–16 and July 18–19, 2025

Spaceship Earth Pauses for Technological Upgrade

EPCOT’s iconic Spaceship Earth will close for routine maintenance starting August 25, 2025, with a planned reopening by the end of the year. The attraction, a park cornerstone since 1982, will undergo technological upgrades, including improvements to projection systems and audio equipment, as well as possible new scenic elements. Building permits suggest Disney aims to modernize this classic journey through the history of human communication, last updated in 2007. Although the downtime is described as routine, the scope of the work suggests guests can expect a more polished and immersive experience when it reopens. This temporary closure comes as EPCOT continues its extensive transformation, with Spaceship Earth remaining a central symbol of the park’s focus on innovation.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Closing for Major Upgrade

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom, will close on August 4, 2025, for a major overhaul, with a planned reopening in 2026. Since its debut in 1998, this interactive shooting attraction has been a guest favorite, but it’s now set for a significant refresh. Disney has confirmed the upgrade will include new ride vehicles, enhanced interactive targets, a new character named “Buddy” – a friendly robot who assists guests on their mission – and an entirely new scene. Building permits also suggest changes to the facade and interior, and there’s speculation the attraction may be rethemed to a newer Pixar film. While the new name hasn’t been confirmed, Disney promises these changes will modernize the experience and make it one of the most advanced shooting attractions in the world.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Replaces Aerosmith with The Muppets

In 2026, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios will permanently close to make way for a new Muppets-themed attraction, expected to open in 2027. When the roller coaster reopens, it will feature new music, visual effects, and a chaotic narrative in which The Muppets attempt to produce a rock concert. This marks the end of the Aerosmith theme, which has defined the ride since its 1999 debut. While many fans are sad to see Aerosmith go, others are excited to see how The Muppets’ humor and charm will transform this high-speed experience into something truly unique.

Astro Orbiter Shines Again After Refurbishment

Astro Orbiter in Tomorrowland, Magic Kingdom, reopened on June 27, 2025, after an extensive refurbishment that began in January. The attraction, which has been soaring guests high above Tomorrowland since 1974, now features new planets, upgraded spacecraft, enhanced lighting, and technical improvements to the elevator system. This is the most significant upgrade since 2009, and guests report smoother operation and shorter wait times. The refreshed attraction retains its retro-futuristic charm but with a polished presentation that enhances Tomorrowland’s thematic appeal. The reopening comes just in time for the summer season, giving guests a chance to experience this classic ride in a new light.

The Boneyard Closes to Make Way for Tropical Americas

The Boneyard, the popular dinosaur-themed play area in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will permanently close on September 2, 2025, to make way for the new Tropical Americas area. Since opening in 1998, this interactive play zone has been a favorite for young children, but it must now make room for Disney’s plans to transform DinoLand into a new themed section opening in 2027. Building permits indicate the dismantling of existing structures and preparations for new development, including a new play area with an unconfirmed theme. This closure is part of a broader reimagining of Animal Kingdom, which also includes a new Indiana Jones attraction.

Walt Disney World Railroad Limited to Shuttle Mode

Starting July 7, 2025, the Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom will operate in a limited “shuttle mode” between Main Street and Fantasyland, as Frontierland Station temporarily closes due to construction of the new Piston Peak and Villains Land areas. This change prevents a full loop around the park. Building permits suggest upgrades to tracks and stations, which may improve future operations. Disney has not confirmed when full service will resume, but the limitations are expected to last through 2026. This temporary change reflects the extensive redevelopment of Frontierland and the area beyond Big Thunder Mountain.

Test Track at EPCOT is getting a major overhaul and is set to rev up the park once again. With a new storyline, sleek vehicles, and a nod to the past, this is a ride you won’t want to miss!

Test Track closed in June 2024 for a significant refurbishment, and the reopening date has now been confirmed: July 22, 2025. Before the official opening, lucky guests such as Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, Golden Oak residents, Club 33 members, and cast members will have the chance to experience the attraction during exclusive previews, though specific dates for these have not yet been announced. The new Test Track 3.0, presented by General Motors, draws inspiration from World of Motion, which operated at EPCOT from 1982 to 1996. The attraction takes guests on a journey through the history of automotive technology, featuring six interactive exhibits in the queue that showcase how cars have evolved. A high-tech display with over 29,000 light points illustrates how modern vehicles use cameras and sensors, while a new musical score sets the mood.

Test Track first opened in 1999 as EPCOT’s first true thrill ride, with high-speed tracks reaching up to 65 mph. In 2012, it was upgraded to Test Track 2.0, where guests could design their own cars in an interactive pre-show, sponsored by Chevrolet. Now, General Motors is back at the helm, and the vehicles sport a sleek, darker design with updated interiors and seats. Construction walls were removed in June 2025, replaced with landscaping, and a new Test Track sign was unveiled. Vehicle testing began as early as March, both day and night, indicating that Disney is on track for the summer reopening.

The reopening is a highlight of EPCOT’s ongoing transformation, which also includes Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and the new GEO-82 lounge for adults, which opened in June 2025. Test Track 3.0 is expected to be a popular addition to the Lightning Lane system, and with its opening in the middle of the summer season, EPCOT is a must-visit for Disney fans.

Walt Disney World is undergoing some of its most exciting and transformative changes in years. From new themed lands like Cars Land to the closure of iconic attractions such as Muppet*Vision 3D, and a reimagining of classics like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, there’s much to look forward to—and some farewells to bid. Here’s an overview of the latest news, including the GEO-82 Lounge, Test Track, and the new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight.

Cars Land: Piston Peak National Park Arrives at Magic Kingdom

Disney has recently revealed further details about what will be called “Piston Peak National Park,” a new Cars-themed area coming to Magic Kingdom. Inspired by Disney-Pixar’s Cars, this land will immerse guests in the Radiator Springs universe. According to Disney, Piston Peak will feature two new attractions: a family-friendly ride and a flagship racing experience through the national park. Naturally, the area will also include dining, shopping, and experiences that bring the film’s charming characters and settings to life.

This project is part of a larger expansion of Magic Kingdom, which also includes a new Villains Land. Construction for the new land is set to begin on July 7 this year.

Muppet*Vision 3D and Muppets Courtyard Close for Good

One of the most heartbreaking announcements for many Disney fans is the permanent closure of Muppet*Vision 3D and the entire Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The attraction, which first opened in 1991, had its final day on June 7, 2025, with the area closing on June 8 to make way for a new Monsters, Inc.-themed land. This new area will feature Disney’s first suspended roller coaster, inspired by the door factory from the film, along with a new theater show.

While the loss of MuppetVision 3D, the final project Jim Henson worked on, is a blow to fans, there is hope that parts of the experience may live on. Disney has hinted at exploring ways to preserve the film and other elements of MuppetVision for future generations.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Gets a Muppets Makeover

As a consolation for the closure of Muppets Courtyard, Disney has announced that The Muppets will take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The iconic roller coaster, themed to Aerosmith since 1999, will close sometime in 2026 for a major overhaul. The reimagined version, expected to open by late 2026, will star The Electric Mayhem, the Muppets’ legendary band, and center on a “rockin’ music festival” filled with new songs and Muppet chaos.

While Aerosmith fans will miss the current version, which remains open throughout 2025, Disney has promised that the Muppets-themed attraction will deliver laughter, thrills, and fresh tunes. However, opinions among fans are divided, with some questioning whether the Muppets’ humorous, family-friendly vibe is the best fit for a high-speed, adrenaline-pumping roller coaster.

GEO-82 Lounge: A New Experience at Spaceship Earth

Epcot welcomed a new addition with the GEO-82 Lounge, which opened on June 4, 2025. Located within Spaceship Earth, this exclusive lounge offers a unique GEO-82 Fireworks Experience, allowing guests to enjoy fireworks in a premium atmosphere. The lounge is part of Disney’s efforts to introduce more upscale experiences in the parks, and early reviews have praised its unique setting and ambiance.

Test Track: Still Under Refurbishment

Test Track at Epcot remains closed for an extensive refurbishment, with no official reopening date confirmed. Disney has said the attraction will reopen by late summer 2025. The construction walls around Test Track are now gone, which should indicate that we are getting closer to opening. The updated version of Test Track is expected to introduce new elements to the popular simulator, where guests design and test their own virtual cars.

Disney Starlight: A New Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom

As a highlight of summer 2025, Magic Kingdom will debut Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, a new nighttime parade launching on July 20. This parade promises to bring Disney’s magic to life with spectacular floats, lights, and music, making it a long-awaited addition to the park’s evening entertainment. Disney Starlight will celebrate Disney’s iconic stories and characters, and is expected to be a must-see for visitors.

Walt Disney World has announced exciting news: Starting in the summer of 2025, construction will begin on a new themed land in Magic Kingdom, transforming Frontierland with a unique experience inspired by Pixar’s Cars universe. The area, named Piston Peak National Park, marks the park’s largest expansion ever, but it also means saying goodbye to beloved attractions.

Piston Peak National Park draws inspiration from Planes: Fire & Rescue and takes guests on a road trip through a rugged, Rocky Mountains-inspired landscape, led by Lightning McQueen, Mater, and other familiar Cars characters. The land continues Frontierland’s narrative of American pioneer spirit, guiding guests from colonial-era Liberty Square through the Northwest’s Country Bear Musical Jamboree, to New Orleans with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and the rock formations of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Piston Peak ties it all together with heroic characters chasing their dreams in the wilderness.

The new land will feature two attractions:

• Cars Road Rally: A thrilling off-road racing experience where guests speed through rugged terrain, dodging geysers and navigating mountain trails. Disney Imagineering has developed a new vehicle type, inspired by testing in the Arizona desert and a custom-built motocross track.
• Family-Friendly Attraction: A fun and accessible experience for younger guests and families, with details still under wraps.

Guests can also look forward to dining options, shopping, a visitor center, Ranger HQ, and scenic trails within the Cars universe.

The area is designed in a style inspired by the National Park Service, ensuring buildings blend into the natural landscape. Tall trees will separate Piston Peak from Frontierland and Liberty Square, keeping the car theme out of view from Main Street, U.S.A. or Liberty Square. The landscape features snow-capped mountains, dramatic peaks, waterfalls, roaring rivers, and geysers from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad that extend into the rally trails, creating a seamless connection to Frontierland’s existing aesthetic.

Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will permanently close starting July 7, 2025, with construction on Piston Peak National Park beginning the following day. These classic attractions, part of Magic Kingdom since its opening, will make way for the 14-acre expansion, which also includes a forthcoming Villains Land behind Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. While no opening date has been confirmed, Piston Peak is estimated to open between 2028 and 2030.

Disney Imagineering has conducted extensive research, including off-road vehicle testing in Arizona and collaboration with a motocross company to build a custom-designed track. This has resulted in a track-based vehicle system with dynamic motion, similar to that of Animal Kingdom’s DINOSAUR attraction.

Piston Peak National Park is part of several major projects in Magic Kingdom, including Villains Land and the Disney Starlight nighttime parade, which begins in the summer of 2025.

Walt Disney World has finally revealed the exciting news everyone has been waiting for! A brand-new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight, will soon transform Magic Kingdom into a shimmering adventure under the stars. At the same time, Disney has announced an important change to the park reservation rules for Annual Passholders.

Disney Starlight Premiere

The grand opening of Disney Starlight will take place on July 20, 2025, marking the first year-round nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom in nearly a decade. The parade will feature dazzling lights, spectacular floats, and magical moments with beloved characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Aladdin and Jasmine, as well as Snow White and Dopey. The iconic Starlight Train float will close the parade with an electrifying burst of color and light.

Exclusive Starlight Experiences

To celebrate the launch of the parade, Disney will introduce a special collection of merchandise, including glowing Mickey ears, collectible pins, and a limited-edition Starlight popcorn available at Main Street Confectionary.

Changes to Park Reservation Rules

Disney has also announced a change in the rules for Annual Passholders at Magic Kingdom. Starting July 20, 2025, all passholders will be required to have a reservation regardless of the time of day to enter the park. Previously, passholders could enter after 2:00 PM on weekdays without a reservation, but due to anticipated high demand for Disney Starlight, reservations will now be required throughout the day.

Walt Disney World is gearing up for an unforgettable 2025, with a flurry of announcements that promise magical experiences for guests of all ages. From the long-awaited reopening of both water parks to new shows and festivals, here’s the latest scoop on what’s coming to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Both Water Parks Set to Make a Splash in 2025

Disney confirmed earlier this year that Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach will both be open in summer of 2025, a major win for fans after years of alternating operations. The dual reopenings align with Disney’s “Cool Kid Summer” campaign, running from May 27 to September 1, 2025. Expect family-friendly activities, seasonal food offerings, and possibly some new surprises to cool off in the Florida heat.

“Cool Kid Summer” Brings Family Fun Galore

Disney’s “Cool Kid Summer,” running from May 27 to September 1, 2025, promises a season packed with family-friendly entertainment. Alongside the water park reopenings, guests can expect new character experiences, seasonal treats, and special events across all four theme parks. While Disney has teased a “full list” of activities, specifics are still rolling out. Check the My Disney Experience app or Disney’s website for the latest on what’s in store for this summer spectacular.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates Revealed

Get ready for a spooktacular time at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom! Disney announced the event will return on select nights from August through October 2025. This after-hours celebration features the beloved Boo-to-You Halloween Parade, a dazzling fireworks show, trick-or-treat stations, and character meet-and-greets with Disney favorites in Halloween costumes. Ticket prices have increased for 2025, with premium rates for high-demand dates near Halloween. Tickets are already on sale for select guests, so secure yours early through the My Disney Experience app or Walt Disney World’s website.
Party Dates 2025:
August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29
September:. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30
October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival 2025 Dates Announced

Foodies, mark your calendars! The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will run from August 28 to November 22, 2025, bringing global flavors to the heart of EPCOT. With over 35 marketplace booths, guests can savor international dishes, including kid-friendly and plant-based options. Fan-favorite activities like Emile’s Fromage Montage (a cheese-tasting adventure) and Remy’s Hide and Squeak (a Ratatouille-inspired scavenger hunt) are back. The festival’s concert series, with guaranteed seating through dining packages, will also return.

New Lightning Lane Rules and Showtimes for The Little Mermaid Attraction

A reimagined The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is set to debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27, 2025, replacing the former Voyage of the Little Mermaid. This vibrant show retells Ariel’s story with new songs like “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl,” blending live performers, puppets, digital animation, and motion capture for an immersive underwater experience. Disney confirmed the attraction will be part of the Lightning Lane system, with multiple daily showtimes listed in the My Disney Experience app. The posted information details performances will start at 9:15 AM and run through 7:15 PM each day. This is a must-see for fans of the classic film!

Full Showtime Lineup for New Villains Show at Hollywood Studios

Disney villains are stealing the spotlight in Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, premiering May 27, 2025, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Housed in the revamped former Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy space, this show transforms into a “mystical reflective realm” guided by the Magic Mirror. Expect live performances from Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent. This wickedly fun addition is sure to delight fans of Disney’s darker side.
Showtimes: 10 AM, 11 AM, 12 PM, 12:30 PM, 1 PM, 1:30 PM, 2 PM, 2:30 PM, 3 PM, 3:30 PM, 4 PM, 4:30 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM

Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern Gets a Name

Magic Kingdom’s upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern now has an official name: The Beak and Barrel. Set to open in 2025, this themed dining experience will immerse guests in the swashbuckling world of the iconic attraction. Expect pirate-inspired cuisine, nautical decor, and possibly some interactive elements that bring the Caribbean to life. Disney hasn’t shared an exact opening date, but construction updates suggest it’s on track for a mid-2025 debut.

From May 27 to September 1, 2025, Walt Disney World transforms into a summer paradise for kids and families. With dancing, character meet-and-greets, creative activities, and new shows across all four theme parks, Cool Kid Summer is one of Disney’s most extensive family-focused initiatives in years.

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom will feature two new DJ-led dance parties. Storybook Circus becomes a lively circus zone with music, stilt walkers, and jugglers. Here, kids can dance freely and enjoy street entertainment in true Disney style. Tomorrowland will host Stitch, who invites guests to dance at the Rocket Tower Plaza Stage. Additionally, children can create crafts inspired by the upcoming Disney film Elio at the Merchant of Venus shop. These activities are designed to give kids a break from lines and a chance to express themselves creatively and physically.

Magic Kingdom also has a special summer surprise: the brand-new nighttime parade Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, debuting this summer. Disney has not yet announced an exact date for its premiere.

EPCOT

One of the biggest changes takes place at EPCOT: CommuniCore Hall will close from May 12 to 26 to be transformed into GoofyCore – a new concept where DJ Goofy hosts dance parties and games for kids. When the hall reopens on May 27, children can join activities like Loopy Limbo – a limbo contest with a Goofy twist – and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks – a group game with parachutes and fun surprises. While the hall is temporarily closed, CommuniCore Plaza and the Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet areas will remain open for guests to enjoy.

Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios focuses on performing arts and interactive experiences. In Animation Courtyard, kids can meet magicians, jump rope performers, and enjoy surprise character appearances.

Two new shows will premiere alongside the start of Cool Kid Summer. Both the updated The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and the brand-new Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After will open on May 27.

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom blends nature and learning with play and music. At Rafiki’s Planet Watch, kids can take part in environmentally themed crafts. A new Wilderness Explorer badge will be available for a limited time – perfect for young adventurers eager to learn more about animals and nature. An interactive sing-along with a Dino Institute scientist lets kids sing, learn, and laugh with an enthusiastic guide. These activities aim to spark curiosity and learning while being fun and engaging.

Extra Magic at Disney Resorts

Disney is extending the Cool Kid Summer experience to several of its resorts. Guests staying at the following resorts will have access to exclusive character meet-and-greets and activities:
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
These activities take place at specific times during the day and offer kids the chance to meet characters in more intimate settings – perfect for those looking for a little extra Disney magic outside the parks.

Practical Information

Dates: May 27 – September 1, 2025
Included with Admission: All Cool Kid Summer activities are included with regular park entry.
Recommendation: Download the My Disney Experience app to keep track of times, locations, and character appearances.
Tip: Start your day early to avoid heat and crowds, and use the app to find the nearest activity or show.

Walt Disney World has recently announced several exciting updates, including the return of V.I.Passholder Days, free water parks, and free Dining Plan for kids, as well as the upcoming May 4th celebrations. Here is an overview of the latest updates.

V.I.Passholder Days are coming back

V.I.Passholder Days offer Annual Passholders exclusive discounts, experiences, and benefits. From May 14 to July 31, 2025, V.I.Passholder Days are back. At EPCOT, a dedicated passholder lounge will be open from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day, and there will be significant discounts at selected restaurants.

Benefits for passholders include:
– 40% discount on food from Monday to Thursday at selected restaurants (see list below).
– Exclusive passholder lounge. Last year, this was located at Restaurant Marrakesh in the Morocco Pavilion at EPCOT, offering free snacks and drinks.
– Free passholder magnet as a souvenir.
– 20% discount on DisneyStore.com from June 2 to July 22.

Discounted restaurants from May 14 to June 30:
Hollywood & Vine – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Tusker House Restaurant (lunch and dinner) – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Boatwright’s Dining Hall – Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Cape May Café (dinner) – Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Discounted restaurants from July 1 to July 31:
The Diamond Horseshoe – Magic Kingdom
Whispering Canyon Café – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Tiffins Restaurant – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Coral Reef Restaurant – EPCOT
Ale & Compass Restaurant (breakfast and lunch) – Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Blizzard Beach closes May 1, while Typhoon Lagoon opens the same day

Blizzard Beach will temporarily close from May 1 to May 20 for maintenance, while Typhoon Lagoon opens for the season on May 1. At Typhoon Lagoon, you can find attractions like Miss Adventure Falls, Crush’ n’ Gusher, and the massive Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool.

Blizzard Beach will reopen later in May, and both water parks will be available to guests throughout the summer. This marks the first time since 2019 that both water parks will be open simultaneously, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy both winter and tropical experiences.

Extended Evening Hours return in 2026

Extended Evening Hours will be available again in 2026 for guests staying at Deluxe Resorts and Disney Vacation Club Resorts. This gives guests two extra hours in the park after closing time, with lower crowds and shorter wait times for attractions. Guests can enjoy attractions like Tron, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Avatar Flight of Passage with significantly shorter wait times. It is important to check the calendar on the My Disney Experience app or website to see which parks have Extended Evening Hours on which days. This can help plan park days around which parks have extended evening hours, especially if you do not have the Park Hopper Add On.

May 4th at Hollywood Studios

On May 4th, known as Star Wars Day, Hollywood Studios will offer special experiences and extended opening hours. Guests can expect exclusive merchandise, themed snacks, and the new “Reclaimed and Reforged” lightsaber experience at Savi’s Workshop. Hollywood Studios will also have special character appearances and photo opportunities with characters like Darth Vader, Chewbacca, and Rey. There will be themed food items such as Wookiee Cookies and Lightsaber Churros available at several restaurants. Guests can also participate in interactive experiences like Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple for kids.

Free water parks on check-in day, extended to 2026

Guests staying at Disney Resorts will continue to enjoy free admission to the water parks on check-in day throughout 2026. This includes both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon and can provide a fantastic start to the vacation. This benefit gives guests the opportunity to explore the water parks at no extra cost on the first day of their stay. It is a perfect way to begin the vacation, especially for families with children who love water activities. Guests can enjoy attractions like Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach and Humunga Kowabunga at Typhoon Lagoon.

Free Disney Dining Plan for kids in 2026

Starting in 2026, families who book a standard dining plan for adults will receive a free Disney Dining Plan for children aged 3 to 9. This offer gives children access to meals and snacks at participating restaurants. The Disney Dining Plan includes meals and snacks, allowing families to focus on enjoying the magic without worrying about the meal budget. Children must choose from the kids’ menu where available, and the offer can be combined with other selected special offers. This provides significant savings for families and makes it easier to plan meals during the stay.

Disney has recently unveiled new images of the upcoming nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, set to debut in the summer of 2025 at Magic Kingdom. Disney promises that this parade will be a dazzling experience celebrating magical moments from Disney stories.

Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away is a star-studded constellation of Disney dreams, brought to life by the magic of the Blue Fairy. The parade will feature enchanting moments from your favorite Disney and Pixar stories such as Moana, Peter Pan, Encanto, Frozen, Pinocchio, and more. The parade will move along the usual route from Frontierland to Main Street USA.

New images of the parade showcase a variety of fantastic floats, including the new Wish float and the Coco float. The Wish float is inspired by the upcoming Disney film “Wish,” where Asha, a sharp idealist, makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by a cosmic force. The Coco float will celebrate the Pixar film with Mariachi music and a larger-than-life Pepita, with Miguel playing guitar at the foot of a marigold bridge to the Land of the Dead.

Disney Starlight will continue the legacy of previous nighttime parades like the Main Street Electrical Parade, using the latest technology to tell new stories about beloved characters.

With Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, visitors can look forward to a nightly spectacular experience that lights up the streets of Magic Kingdom.