From bold new attractions to reimagined classics and guest-friendly upgrades,
Highlights
- Refreshed rides & new experiences: Updated favorites like Frozen Ever After, Buzz Lightyear, Big Thunder Mountain, plus new shows and enhanced Star Wars and Soarin’ attractions across
Walt Disney World Resort. - Family-friendly perks: Kids eat free with a qualifying dining plan, and free water park admission returns for resort guests in summer.
- Festivals & special events: EPCOT festivals and popular holiday parties are all confirmed to return in 2026.
As a self-proclaimed Disney mom of three, I’m looking forward to the refreshed ride experiences, cutting-edge technology we’ll see and some perks coming back in the new year.
Are you ready to explore more? Get inspired with our weekly newsletter!
Reinvigorated Attractions and Experiences Coming in 2026
Walt Disney World Resort is bringing 10 all-new and reinvigorated attractions and experiences. In early 2026, Frozen Ever After at EPCOT is receiving a fresh update with newly updated Audio-Animatronics figures of Anna, Elsa and Kristoff. These on-screen favorites will look more realistic.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is under refurbishment, but set to re-open at the Magic Kingdom in spring 2026 with some minor magical updates to the beloved coaster. Additionally, Magic Kingdom debuts an enhanced version of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. The ride’s overhaul includes new vehicles, interactive targets and handheld blasters.
At Hollywood Studios, the youngest guests can dance and party at “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” The show includes upbeat tunes and dancing as Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse embark on a road trip to find some of their best pals – Goofy, Daisy and Pluto – for the party. I know my kids will love that, but I’m looking forward to the refreshed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets! The coaster opens in summer 2026.
Star Wars fans aren’t left out. A new version of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is opening May 22 at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. For those who always land in the engineer seat, the ride is about to be far more exciting and inclusive.
Lastly, at EPCOT, Walt Disney World is participating in the America 250 celebration with an all-new immersive journey with Soarin’ Across America. Guests fly over iconic vistas across the United States.
Best Walt Disney World 2026 Guest Perks
Throughout all of 2026, guests staying at one of more than 25 Disney Resort hotels will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3 to 9) when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). The kids’ free dining plan offering can be combined with other select special offers, meaning guests may still be eligible to take advantage of different deals rolled out later for 2026.
One of my favorite perks that’s returning is free Disney Water Park admission for Disney Resorts Collection hotel guests on the day of arrival. It’s coming back for summer, but specific dates aren’t set yet. Watch for summer date announcements in January, along with ways to save on your family vacation with the Cool KIDS’ SUMMER promotion.
Festivals & Parties Returning To Walt Disney World in 2026
Dates are set for several of the highly anticipated Disney special events:
- The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts returns January 16 – February 23rd.
- The 2026 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival runs March 4 – June 1st.
No firm dates have been announced for the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival or the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, but it’s confirmed they’re officially returning!
Join our Private Disney FB Group for more tips! JOIN HERE
For fans of extra magic, all three popular holiday parties will return to the parks in 2026. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary-Halloween Party, Disney Jollywood Nights and the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will be back on select nights. These are hard-ticket events, and dates will be announced in the new year.
Summer 2026 welcomes back Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon waterpark. The after-dark hard-ticket party event includes DJ dance parties, Disney pals, complimentary ice cream treats, popcorn and select beverages.
With returning favorites, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Walt Disney World guests.
Leave a Reply