Disney World Just Dropped Its Entire 2026 Calendar—And There Are 10 Brand-New Experiences Coming

Disney World just pulled back the curtain on its entire 2026 calendar, and it’s packed with debuts, festivals, and returning favorites. If you’re planning a visit next year, you’ll want to mark these dates.

The resort announced a comprehensive lineup of events, attraction openings, and seasonal celebrations spanning all four theme parks plus Disney Springs. According to the official Disney Parks Blog announcement, guests can expect 10 new and reimagined attractions and experiences throughout the year, along with the return of beloved seasonal events.

What’s Opening (And When)

Here’s the breakdown of major attraction debuts and reopenings for 2026:

February: The enhanced Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff Audio-Animatronics at Frozen Ever After will debut at EPCOT, featuring the same advanced technology used at Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen attraction.

Spring: Both Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopen at Magic Kingdom following major refurbishments. Big Thunder gets new Rainbow Caverns scenes, while Buzz Lightyear receives updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, and new interactive targets.

Memorial Day Weekend (May 25): Soarin’ Across America debuts at EPCOT as part of Disney’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The new flight experience showcases breathtaking locations across the United States and will be a limited-time offering.

Summer 2026: This is when things get busy. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster reopens as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets following its Aerosmith-to-Muppets transformation. Disney’s Hollywood Studios also debuts “The Magic of Disney Animation,” showcasing the creative process behind Walt Disney Animation Studios with interactive elements, plus “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” featuring Mickey and Minnie.

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Bluey and Bingo arrive at Conservation Station with interactive games and Australian animal experiences. And at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run launches a new mission centered on The Mandalorian and Grogu on May 22.

Festivals and Seasonal Events

Disney’s festival calendar remains robust in 2026. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks things off from January 16 through February 23, followed by the International Flower & Garden Festival from March 4 through June 1. The International Food & Wine Festival returns in fall, and the International Festival of the Holidays closes out the year.

Both Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom and Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios return for select nights. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party also makes its seasonal comeback.

Cool Kids’ Summer and Special Perks

Disney’s launching a “Cool Kids’ Summer” campaign featuring new family-friendly offers. One standout perk: guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels get free Disney Water Park admission on their arrival day throughout summer 2026.

The campaign includes GoofyCore at EPCOT (yes, that’s really what it’s called) and expanded character meet-and-greets across all four parks. Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Typhoon Lagoon as a separately ticketed event with DJ dance parties and character appearances.

What This Means for Your 2026 Trip

With 10 new experiences debuting throughout the year, timing matters. If you want to ride the new Muppets coaster or experience Soarin’ Across America, summer 2026 is your window. Festival fans should note the specific dates for EPCOT’s rotating celebrations, especially if you’re chasing the passport stamps.

The free water park access for resort guests is a significant value-add if you’re visiting during the notoriously hot Florida summer months. And with multiple after-hours events returning across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios, night owls have more options than ever for experiencing the parks with lower crowds.

Disney hasn’t released booking windows for all the individual events yet, but historically, tickets for after-hours parties and special events go on sale several months in advance. If you’re planning a 2026 trip, now’s the time to start mapping out which experiences you want to prioritize.

The full 2026 calendar is available on the Disney Parks Blog, where Disney continues to release additional details and booking information as individual events approach.