What’s New at Walt Disney World This Summer: A Local’s Guide for Parents
Summer in Orlando? It’s not exactly my favorite season (hello, heat and humidity), but I’ll admit—there’s something magical about watching families from all over the world arrive in our city, ready for the Disney adventure of a lifetime. And this summer, Walt Disney World is pulling out all the stops with brand-new shows, special ticket offers, and limited-time magic just for the season.
Whether you’re planning your family trip or just want to keep up with what’s new in our backyard, here’s what’s coming to Disney this summer:
New at Walt Disney World Summer 2026
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Activities
At Magic Kingdom, little ones can dance with Jessie in Frontierland and play midway-style games at the Big Top Bash in Storybook Circus, or groove to out-of-this-world music with Stitch at the Galactic Blast party in Tomorrowland. Over at EPCOT, GoofyCore fills the new CommuniCore Hall with silly games and music.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Disney’s Hollywood Studios transforms Animation Courtyard into a colorful activity hub with character visits, crafts, and live entertainment. Plus, starting May 26, families can catch Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The new stage show brings favorite Disney Jr. characters together in a lively performance designed for preschoolers and younger kids.
One of the most exciting announcements for families is that Bluey and Bingo are coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Beginning May 26, the beloved characters from the hit children’s series “Bluey” will make appearances at the park. Even better, these appearances will continue beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, giving families plenty of opportunities to meet the characters.
For many young visitors, meeting Bluey and Bingo may quickly become one of the top character experiences at Disney World for kids.
BOTH Disney World Water Parks Are Open!
It’s been years since we could say this…. BOTH water parks will be open at Walt Disney World from May 26 to September 8, 2026! Yes, you can visit Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon AND Disney’s Blizzard Beach this summer. Usually, summer has been Typhoon Lagoon’s time to shine, but now Blizzard Beach finally gets in on the action. Both water parks are among our favorite places to go swimming in Orlando.
And, this is on top of Disney’s special offer that includes admission to a Disney water park on the day of your arrival / check-in when staying at a qualifying Disney resort hotel!
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Reopens April 8, 2026
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin closed for refurbishment in August 2025 and will reopen on April 8, 2026. The ride will return with new scenes, upgraded ride vehicles, and more accurate gameplay—so your little space rangers will want to come back next year to test it out.
Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, Soarin’ Across America zips into EPCOT with a brand-new trip beginning May 26. The new offering will highlight some of the U.S.A.’s natural beauty as well as iconic cityscapes, accompanied by a new orchestration of the classic Soarin’ musical theme.
A Reminder on What Opened Summer 2025
New Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom
On July 20, 2025, a brand-new nighttime parade began to light up Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom:
- “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away”
Expect glowing floats, magical music, and appearances by beloved characters from Encanto, Frozen, Moana, Peter Pan, and more.
Two All-New Stage Shows now open
Disney’s Hollywood Studios debuted not one, but TWO new shows now open:
- “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure”
Ariel is swimming back onto the stage in a reimagined musical featuring your favorite songs, stunning new set pieces, and plenty of under-the-sea charm. It’s taking over the former “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” space in Animation Courtyard. - “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After”
This one’s for the villain fans! Taking over the old Lightning McQueen Racing Academy space, this new show gives the baddies their moment to shine—think Cruella, Maleficent, Captain Hook, and more in a delightfully wicked production.
Is the new villains show okay for kids? Read our Parents’ Guide to Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After.
New Test Track at EPCOT
One of the fastest rides at Walt Disney World is back with a brand-new look. After months of anticipation, Test Track, presented by General Motors, reopened at EPCOT on July 22, 2025, and it now features a sleek new design, updated storyline, and cutting-edge technology that blends nostalgia with innovation.
Special Summer Offers at Walt Disney World
Some great deals have popped up for the summer!
4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket
Starting at $109 per day, plus tax (total: starting at $436, plus tax), you’ll get access to all four Walt Disney World theme parks, one park per day.
Travel Window: May 26 – Oct. 3, 2026
Usage: One theme park per day with one admission per park; Ticket must be used within 7 days of first use
Free Disney Dining Plan
Available with select vacation packages that include a minimum 4-night stay at a Disney Resort hotel and a 4-day theme park ticket with Park Hopper option.
Travel Window: Available for arrivals most nights June 28 – Oct. 3, Oct. 19 – Oct. 31 and Dec. 6 – Dec. 21, 2026.
Booking Window: March 12 – April 30, 2026
