Walt Disney World Summer 2026 Guide: New Shows, Bluey, Cool Kid Summer Events and Ride Updates
Planning a Walt Disney World summer 2026 vacation just got a lot more exciting! Disney has revealed a wave of new entertainment, character experiences, and ride updates arriving across the parks starting in late spring and running through the summer season.
From the return of the fan favorite Cool Kid Summer celebration to the debut of Bluey at Animal Kingdom, plus a refreshed Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, there will be more reasons than ever for families to plan a last minute trip to Walt Disney World.
Combine these new experiences with some of the best ticket prices of the year, longer park hours, and major savings through the DVC Rental Store, and summer may be one of the most exciting times to visit the resort in years.
Here is everything coming to Walt Disney World this summer!
What Is Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World?
Cool Kid Summer returns to Walt Disney World from May 26th through September 8th, bringing DJ dance parties, character encounters, games, and interactive activities across all four theme parks and Disney Springs.
Last summer, the program became a surprise highlight for many families. Guests loved the spontaneous character moments, energetic dance parties, and family-focused entertainment scattered throughout the parks.
For 2026, Disney is expanding the fun even further with new character experiences and shows designed specifically for younger guests.
Expect:
• DJ hosted dance parties throughout the parks
• Surprise character appearances
• Hands on activities and games
• Family focused entertainment during the day and evening
• High energy summer vibes across Walt Disney World
If you are visiting Walt Disney World this summer with kids or grandkids, this seasonal celebration adds a layer of entertainment you will not find during other times of the year.
Bluey Is Coming to Disney World
Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom
One of the most exciting announcements for Walt Disney World summer 2026 is the arrival of Bluey and Bingo at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Starting May 26th, guests can visit Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station inside Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
After taking the Wildlife Express Train, families will discover an interactive experience inspired by the hit animated series.
Guests can:
• Play games featured in Bluey episodes
• Meet and take photos with Bluey and Bingo
• Explore animals native to Australia
• Visit the “Jumping Junction” play space
The experience will continue beyond the summer season, making it one of the newest character offerings at Walt Disney World.
For families with young children, this may quickly become one of the most popular new meet and greet opportunities in the parks.
Goofy Takes Over CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT
GoofyCore Summer Party
Over at EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall will transform into GoofyCore, a high energy dance and play experience led by everyone’s favorite goofball.
This interactive space will feature:
• DJ led dance parties
• Family friendly movement games
• Loopy Limbo competitions
• Parachutes and playground style group activities
The theme here is simple. The goofier the dance moves, the better.
It is designed to give kids a place to run, dance, laugh, and burn off energy between rides and attractions.
Soarin’ Across America Returns to EPCOT for Summer 2026
Another exciting addition to Walt Disney World summer 2026 arrives at EPCOT when Soarin’ Across America returns with a refreshed flight experience beginning May 26th.
The attraction will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with a brand new cinematic journey across some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and iconic destinations.
Guests will soar above:
• The Grand Canyon
• Famous American city skylines
• Stunning natural landmarks across the United States
The experience will also feature a newly orchestrated version of the classic Soarin’ musical score, enhancing the sensation of flight that has made the attraction one of EPCOT’s most beloved rides.
For many Disney fans, Soarin’ Across America remains the definitive version of the attraction. Its return adds another nostalgic highlight for guests visiting Walt Disney World this summer.
New Disney Junior Show at Hollywood Studios
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live
A brand new stage show arrives at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting May 26th.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live is inspired by the global hit series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and invites guests into a musical adventure with Mickey and Minnie.
During the show:
• Guests help Mickey track down his friends
• Goofy, Daisy and Pluto join the celebration
• Original songs and interactive moments keep kids engaged
• The entire audience gets a chance to dance and participate
This new show will continue beyond summer, making it a fresh addition to the park’s entertainment lineup.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Arrive on Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run
Beginning May 22nd at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests will be able to join The Mandalorian and Grogu on an all new mission aboard Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run.
Timed to coincide with the upcoming Star Wars film, the new storyline places guests directly in the action as Din Djarin recruits crews to help track down ex Imperial officers across the galaxy.
This update introduces several new gameplay elements including:
• A brand new mission storyline
• Multiple planetary destinations chosen by the crew
• Familiar Star Wars locations throughout the galaxy
• New interactions with Grogu during the mission
For the first time, engineers can communicate directly with Grogu, creating an even more interactive experience while piloting the legendary Millennium Falcon.
The new mission adds fresh replay value to the attraction and gives Star Wars fans another reason to visit Hollywood Studios this summer.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Coming This Summer
Later this summer, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will be bringing guests into the chaotic musical world of Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem!
While Disney has not revealed every detail yet, the revamped coaster is expected to feature:
• Music from the Electric Mayhem band
• The signature humor of The Muppets
• New story elements and pre show moments
• The same high speed indoor coaster experience fans love
More details and opening dates will be announced soon!
Jessie’s Roundup Comes to Magic Kingdom
Jessie’s Roundup Rip Roarin’ Revue
Inside the Diamond Horseshoe at Magic Kingdom, families can join Jessie and her Toy Story pals for a lively summer show.
Jessie’s Roundup Rip Roarin’ Revue features:
• Songs and dancing
• Interactive games for kids
• Appearances by Woody, Bullseye and friends
• A playful Wild West themed atmosphere
It is another example of Disney adding more family focused entertainment experiences during the summer season.
Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Reopens April 8th
Before the summer festivities even begin, a refreshed version of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin returns to Magic Kingdom on April 8th.
The attraction receives several enhancements designed to improve the interactive gameplay.
Updates include:
• New ride vehicles
• Handheld blasters with always on laser targeting
• Interactive targets that light up when hit
• Enhanced sound and lighting effects
• A new support bot named Buddy guiding guests through the mission
• Updated photo memories that display your final score
The improvements should make the attraction more competitive and easier for guests to track their hits during the mission against Emperor Zurg.
Disney Springs Summer Dance Parties
The fun continues at Disney Springs with select night dance parties in the Marketplace area.
These celebrations will feature music inspired by upcoming Disney+ original movies including:
• Descendants: Wicked Wonderland
• Camp Rock 3
Expect a lively nighttime atmosphere where families can dance together after a day in the parks.
Character Fun at Disney Water Parks
Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open this summer, giving guests more ways to cool off.
Even better, Disney characters will make appearances at both water parks.
Guests may spot:
• Stitch causing playful chaos at Typhoon Lagoon
• Goofy in beach attire at Blizzard Beach
For many families, summer afternoons at the water parks can be the perfect break from the heat while still enjoying Disney entertainment.
Free Water Park Admission on Check-In Day
One of the most overlooked Disney perks is free water park admission on check in day for Disney Resort hotel guests.
When you rent points through DVC Rental Store, you can take advantage of this benefit while also saving significantly on your resort stay.
This means you can:
• Arrive at Walt Disney World
• Head straight to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach for free
• Check in to your DVC villa later in the afternoon/evening
It is a great way to start your vacation before your first park day!
How to Save on Walt Disney World Tickets This Summer
If you are looking to visit all four theme parks this summer, the 4-Day 4-Park Magic Ticket is one of the most affordable options available.
Through our friends at Unlocked Magic, guests can purchase a special ticket package that includes:
• Four days of park admission
• One park per day
• Access to all four Walt Disney World theme parks
Pricing starts at $109 per day, plus tax, or $436 total, plus tax.
Tickets are valid for visits between May 26th and October 3rd and must be used within seven days of first use.
Save Up to 65% on Your Disney Resort Stay
One of the biggest expenses for a Walt Disney World vacation is the hotel.
By renting Disney Vacation Club points through DVC Rental Store, guests can save up to 65% off Disney rack rate pricing while staying at deluxe Disney resorts.
In many cases, those savings are better than Disney’s free dining or seasonal promotions.
You still receive the perks of staying on property including:
• Early theme park entry
• Free water park admission on check in day
• Complimentary Disney transportation
• Immersive Disney resort experiences
If you are considering a last-minute Walt Disney World summer trip, renting DVC points is one of the smartest ways to make the vacation more affordable.
Combine those experiences with lower ticket prices, longer park hours, and major resort savings, and it is easy to see why summer may be the perfect time to plan a Walt Disney World vacation.
And if you want to stay in a deluxe Disney resort for far less than Disney’s listed prices, DVC Rental Store can help make it happen!
