2026 Disney World Sneak Peek
New Experiences, Festivals & Fun!
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to plan a magical Walt Disney World getaway, 2026 might just be the year. Disney is rolling out an exciting lineup of brand-new attractions, reimagined experiences, and returning fan-favorite seasonal events to keep the magic going all year long.
- 10 new or refreshed attractions
- 9 returning festivals and special events
- Over 200 days of entertainment and celebration
With so much happening from start to finish, 2026 is shaping up to be nonstop Disney magic, and we’re all in for the fun!
Kicking Off 2026
Frozen Fun & Festival Highlights at EPCOT
EPCOT fans are in for fresh surprises early in the year. The beloved Frozen Ever After attraction will debut with updated Audio-Animatronics of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff in February 2026.
For fans of the arts, Broadway-style performances, and unique culinary treats, the vibrant EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is back to dazzle your senses, returning January 16–February 23.
Disney After Hours events will also continue into 2026, giving guests coveted late-night access with shorter waits and complimentary snacks.
Spring
Refreshed Attractions and Blossoming Fun
Two Magic Kingdom favorites are reopening with some much-anticipated upgrades:
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin returns with new ride vehicles, improved blasters, and enhanced interactive targets — perfect for testing your galactic skills.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad roars back after its refurbishment, ready for another round of high-speed adventure!
And we can’t forget about EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival running March 4–June 1, where vibrant blooms, stunning topiaries, and plenty of outdoor fun is sure to be had.
Summer
LOTS of New Fun for Families
Summer will shine with a “Cool Kids’ Summer” celebration featuring fresh character meet-ups, dancing, and family-focused fun.
Other summer highlights include:
- Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon, complete with DJ dance parties, character appearances, and of course complimentary snacks after hours.
- Banana Ball at ESPN Wide World of Sports on May 29–30, a new live sports entertainment event.
- Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station in Animal Kingdom, bringing music, games, and animal-themed fun for little ones.
- New live entertainment at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, and The Magic of Disney Animation, a new interactive Animation-themed attraction area, plus an “Off the Page!” animation-studio inspired experience.
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (in Hollywood Studios) will reopen with a major transformation in summer 2026, as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.
- An all-new flight-themed attraction experience based on Soarin’ is planned to debut Memorial Day 2026.
Calling all water park fans! Guests staying at official Disney Resort hotels will enjoy complimentary water park admission on arrival day during the summer season.
With refreshed experiences, seasonal events, and plenty of family fun, summer 2026 at Disney World is shaping up to be unforgettable for kids, families, and Disney fans of all ages.
Fall & Winter
Festive Favorites Return
As the year winds down, Disney keeps the magic going strong with a lineup of fan-favorite festivals and holiday events:
- EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival: savor global flavors, sip on seasonal beverages, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the park.
- Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: dress up, meet beloved characters, and enjoy themed shows and trick-or-treating fun.
- Disney Jollywood Nights: a festive celebration with music, dancing, and immersive entertainment.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: experience the park decked out in holiday sparkle, plus special shows and fireworks.
- EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays: enjoy seasonal treats, cultural displays, and the return of the popular Candlelight Processional.
And there’s something new to explore too! LEVEL99, a brand-new entertainment venue at Disney Springs, will open its doors in late 2026. Guests can dive into immersive challenge rooms, art hunts, and interactive games, then take a break at the two-story bar and dining space, making it a perfect mix of fun, creativity, and relaxation.
From spooky thrills to holiday cheer, fall and winter at Disney World offer something for every guest, making it the perfect way to wrap up a magical year.
Ready to Start Planning Your Dream 2026 Disney Vacation?
With new attractions launching throughout the year and beloved festivals returning stronger than ever, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most magical years ever at Walt Disney World.
If you’re interested in making it your year to visit, there’s nothing better than a DVC resort stay to accompany your trip. Complete the magic by adding a Dining Plan to your reservation, and take advantage of yet another amazing feature of 2026 – free dining for kids with a 2026 Disney Dining Plan.
Wanting to take a trip for early 2026, but worried about availability? We’ve got loads of pre-booked, discounted reservations for some of the winter and spring magic.
Leaning towards summer or fall? Work with our team to book your ideal DVC resort stay today.
No matter when you want to visit, we’ve got you covered with a DVC stay to make your vacation both magical and cost-effective. Why wait? Start planning your dream trip today!
