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What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026
Disney enters 2026 with major construction and reimagining projects underway across its domestic theme parks, and this won’t be the year most of those long-term builds reach the finish line.
Instead, the biggest draws come from a few beloved big names stepping into the spotlight: Bluey finally arrives at both U.S. resorts, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run launches a new mission with the Mandalorian and Grogu, and Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster gives the Muppets a new starring role at Walt Disney World.
While the work continues behind the walls, these recognizable additions — along with the launch of Disney Adventure, which continues Disney Cruise Line’s fever-pitch fleet expansion — give fans something tangible to look forward to in 2026. And with D23 returning to Anaheim this August, we can expect plenty of sneak peeks at what’s to come. Here’s a closer look at what’s to come in 2026 from Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Walt Disney World
EPCOT
Frozen Ever After Audio-Animatronics Updates
In February 2026, Frozen Ever After in EPCOT’s Norway pavilion will debut newly updated Audio-Animatronics figures of Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff. The figures will apply the newer technology used in the figures at World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland.
Soarin’ Across America
A new version of Soarin’ — Soarin’ Across America — will debut by Memorial Day at Walt Disney World as part of “Disney Celebrates America,” the company-wide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The attraction will feature more than a dozen iconic locations across the United States, highlighting “natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.”
EPCOT Festival and Special Event Returns Confirmed
Disney has confirmed the return of EPCOT’s seasonal festivals, though only seasons have been shared for the second half of the year. EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (January 16–February 23) kicks off the 2026 festival calendar, followed by the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival (March 4–June 1). Summer brings elements of the resort-wide Cool Kids’ Summer slate to EPCOT, including GoofyCore and other limited-time entertainment, along with activations elsewhere across Walt Disney World.
Disney confirmed the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival’s return in fall 2026, though it’s worth noting the festival typically starts in August and runs through the fall. Similarly, Disney announced the return of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays in winter 2026. However, please note that the majority of the festival takes place during the fall, beginning in November after Thanksgiving and concluding in late December.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Magic Kingdom
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad to Reopen
The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness reopens this spring 2026 following an extensive refurbishment that includes a total track replacement. The updated version expands the lore surrounding Barnabas T. Bullion, the gold-hungry founder of the Big Thunder Mining Company, and will debut refreshed and enhanced scenes and effects, including glowing Rainbow Caverns and a bat-filled cave.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Refresh
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will reopen in spring 2026 with major tech updates: new, redesigned star cruisers, handheld blasters, responsive targets, and on-board screens that track scores in real time. The updated ride will also introduce a new character, Buddy — a “support-bot” created by Walt Disney Imagineering and Pixar.
Cinderella Castle Will Be Restored to Classic Color Palette
Cinderella Castle will be restored to its iconic color palette this year. Beginning in January 2026, the predominantly pink color scheme introduced for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary will be replaced, returning the castle to its classic hues in a refreshed range of soft grays, creams, blues, and gold.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
The transformation from Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith to a reimagined version starring The Muppets has already begun, with the Aerosmith preshow closing in late 2025.
The Aerosmith version of the attraction will close permanently in spring 2026 to complete its transition into Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, scheduled to open in summer 2026. The reimagined attraction will include a soundtrack of “iconic hits” by Electric Mayhem and a preshow that will debut Scooter as an Audio-Animatronics figure for the first time ever.
Reimagined Animation Courtyard Debuts This Summer
In summer 2026, Animation Courtyard will reopen with new experiences. The former Star Wars: Launch Bay space will reopen as The Magic of Disney Animation, inspired by Emmy Award-winning short film Once Upon a Studio. The reimagining will add Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat to the facade and bring the “studio” to life inside with interactive departments that will include character encounters, drawing classes, a short film, and a Mary Blair-inspired “Drawn to Wonderland” play area for younger kids.
As part of the overhaul, the soundstage will become home to Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, the same interactive show that debuted in 2025 at Disneyland’s Disney California Adventure. Inspired by the long-running Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse series and its reboot, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, the interactive show features original music, audience participation, and appearances by Mickey and friends.
New Mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
A new Mandalorian and Grogu storyline is coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World and Disneyland on May 22, 2026, coinciding with the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu film.
The updated mission sends crews after a bounty uncovered by Hondo Ohnaka on Tatooine, launching a chase involving ex-Imperials, pirates, and Mando and Grogu. Missions depart from Batuu to Tatooine, with flight crews then choosing their next destination — Endor, Bespin, or Coruscant. As part of the update, the Engineer position gets expanded responsibilities, including interacting with and caring for Grogu during the mission.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
DinoLand U.S.A. to Close Permanently
The clock is ticking as DinoLand U.S.A.’s countdown to extinction, aka permanent closure, rapidly approaches. All that remains of DinoLand U.S.A. will permanently close on February 2, 2026, so guests will need to say their final goodbyes on or before February 1, the last day to experience DINOSAUR, The Dino Institute Shop, Restaurantosaurus, and Restaurantosaurus Lounge.
Bluey and Bingo Make Their Debut
Bluey and Bingo will officially make their Walt Disney World debut at Conservation Station at Disney’s Animal Kingdom this summer. The experience includes an interactive “dance and play” element, a wildlife component focused on animals native to Australia, and chances to meet the Heeler sisters.
Walt Disney World Separately Ticketed Events Announced
Disney has announced the return dates or seasons of popular ticketed events for 2026, though many details, including specific dates, are still to come. Disney After Hours will take place on select nights across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (see dates, pricing, and get tickets). Banana Ball is coming to ESPN Wide World of Sports (May 29–30).
Disney H2O Glow After Hours is slated for summer 2026 at Typhoon Lagoon. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is confirmed for fall 2026 at Magic Kingdom, though the first party typically kicks off in early August. Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom have both been announced for the winter 2026 season, but note that both events traditionally begin in early November and conclude in late December.
LEVEL99 Coming to Disney Springs
LEVEL99 is set to open in 2026 in the former NBA Experience space on the West Side of Disney Springs. Across more than 60 themed rooms, groups can work together in short, skill-based challenges or compete against each other in individual competitions. The venue will also feature a two-story bar serving cocktails, local beers, and Detroit-style pizza.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Walt Disney World Offers
Kids’ Free Dining Plan
Throughout 2026, guests staying at Disney Resort hotels will receive a free dining plan for kids ages 3–9 with the purchase of a dining plan for all other members of their party.
Free Water Park Admission for Resort Guests
Disney is again offering complimentary water park admission to Disney Resort hotel guests on their arrival date — but only for stays beginning in summer 2026. The perk was offered for all of 2025, but exact dates and details are still to come for 2026.
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration Continues
Disneyland Resort’s resort-wide 70th anniversary festivities continue through August 9, 2026, with some of the celebration’s marquee entertainment returning to Disneyland Park in January after being paused for holiday offerings.
On January 8, Mickey and friends will trade their holiday costumes for their 70th Celebration outfits and nighttime spectacular Wondrous Journeys resumes. The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade will return January 9, and the Paint the Night parade is back in action January 30.
Bluey and Bingo Come to Disneyland Park
On March 22, the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland Park will debut Bluey’s Best Day Ever!, an immersive entertainment experience that includes a live stage show, character appearances, interactive games, and music drawn from the beloved Disney+ animated series.
Bluey and Bingo will appear on stage with a cast of performers, and guests can participate in games and experiences like Keepy Uppy, a life-sized Gnome Village and Fairy Garden, and more activities in the fair at Bluey’s school with the Grannies, Chattermax, and Unicorse. Themed foods inspired by the series will be available at Troubadour Tavern.
New Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Mission Coming to Disneyland Park
If you jumped straight to the Disneyland news, be sure to scroll back up to read more about the new Mandalorian and Grogu storyline coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. The new mission debuts on the ride in Disneyland Park on May 22, 2026, the same date The Mandalorian & Grogu film hits theaters.
Soarin’ Over America Coming to Disney California Adventure
Soarin’ Across America, which will first debut by Memorial Day at Walt Disney World as part of the company-wide “Disney Celebrates America” celebration, takes over Disney California Adventure’s version of Soarin’ beginning July 2. As at EPCOT, the attraction will feature more than a dozen natural and cityscape locations across the U.S.
Hyperspace Mountain to Return to Disneyland Park
Disneyland teased more information still to come about Star Wars experiences coming to Disneyland, but shared that the seasonal Star Wars-themed overlay to Space Mountain, Hyperspace Mountain, will return on April 28, 2026. Season of the Force was not mentioned in the initial 2026 announcements.
Napa Rose to Reopen at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Napa Rose is set to reopen in early 2026 following a renovation that introduces an expanded exhibition kitchen, updated patio seating with new fireplaces, and a refreshed menu that combines new dishes with returning favorites. The restaurant will also continue to highlight its extensive wine program, featuring a collection of more than 1,500 labels.
New Concierge Lounge at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
A second club-level lounge is expected to open at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in 2026. Located on the 5th and 6th floors, the two-story lounge will overlook the lobby and feature skylights, stained glass, and architecture that echoes the lobby’s California Craftsman design and forest-inspired theming.
Seasonal and Limited-Time Celebrations
Disneyland Resort released a full 2026 events calendar with dates for seasonal festivals, events, and holiday celebrations, as well as separate ticketed events like Disneyland After Dark and Oogie Boogie Bash.
Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park (Jan. 23-Feb. 22) Horace Horsecollar will help ring in the Year of the Horse during this celebration honoring Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean Lunar New Year traditions. New this year, some Disney characters will debut new costumes inspired by Vietnamese and Chinese attire.
Celebrate Gospel (Feb. 20-21 and Feb. 27-28). New this year, Celebrate Gospel moves to the Downtown Disney District for this annual celebration of gospel music. Performers include local choirs and headliners Hezekiah Walker (Feb. 21) and Yolanda Adams (Feb. 28).
Anaheim Ducks Day (Feb. 22) Hockey-themed entertainment and activities take over Disney California Adventure Park, with appearances by Wild Wing and select Anaheim Ducks players.
Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (March 6-April 27) The flavors of California take center stage for this culinary celebration of the Golden State’s rich variety of cuisines.
Disney On the Yard – Yardfest: Powered by Celebrate Soulfully (June 19) The celebration of the spirit and traditions of historically Black colleges and universities returns to the Downtown Disney District for a second year, with entertainment featuring drumline performances and Drum Major Mickey Mouse.
D23 Day at Disneyland Resort and Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party (Aug. 13) Disneyland Resort helps kick off the festivities ahead of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event with a day of special moments and experiences across the resort. For families with young kids, Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party offers one day of special entertainment, characters, and activities in Disney California Adventure Park, which then continues through August 16 in the Downtown Disney District.
Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort (Aug. 21-Oct. 31) Autumn arrives early around Disneyland Resort with the August 21 debut of frightfully festive seasonal decor, entertainment, food and drinks, and Mickey pumpkins aplenty.
Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park (Aug. 21-Nov. 2) Honoring Día de los Muertos and its associated Mexican traditions, this celebration at Disney California Adventure features music and storytelling from Coco and highlights the importance of family and cultural heritage.
Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Nov. 18) The holly, jolly season kicks off at Disneyland Resort Nov. 18 with seasonal decor, holiday attraction overlays, a beloved parade, cultural celebrations, and Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure.
Separately Ticketed Events
Disneyland After Dark will return with five separately ticketed after-hours events in 2026: Sweethearts’ Nite (Jan. 22, 25, 27; Feb. 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 17), the debut of 70 Years of Favorites (March 3, 5), Disney Channel Nite (April 12, 14, 16), Star Wars Nite (April 28, 30; May 4, 6), and Pride Nite (June 16, 18).
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party will expand to 33 dates between August and October at Disney California Adventure:
- Aug 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30
- Sept 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29
- Oct 1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31
The Disneyland Railroad Guided Tour, a separately ticketed tour that explores Walt Disney’s fascination and enthusiasm for trains and includes a ride in the Presidential Car of the Disneyland Railroad, the Lilly Belle, returns to Disneyland Park on January 16, 2026, with online bookings opening January 8.
Downtown Disney Transformation Continues
The Downtown Disney District’s extensive transformation continues with the forthcoming openings of Earl of Sandwich and Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby, expected in 2026.
2026 Disneyland Ticket and Hotel Offers
Disneyland has announced several ticket and hotel offers for visits in 2026:
- Kids’ Summer Ticket Offer: Tickets for kids ages 3-9 as low as $50 per child with a 1-Day, Park Hopper ticket; 2-Day and 3-Day tickets also available, with options to add Lightning Lane Multi Pass for an additional fee. Available to purchase beginning Jan. 21, 2026, for visits May 22-Sept. 7, 2026.
- Save up to 25% on stays of 4 or more nights from May 22 to September 7, 2026, at a Disneyland Resort Hotel. Reservations open January 21, 2026, subject to availability and restrictions.
- Eligible California Residents can save on 3-Day Park Hopper tickets through an offer available for visits January 1–May 21, 2026.
- Savings of up to 25% on Disneyland Resort Hotel stays of 3 or more nights, January 1, 2026–May 21, 2026, are available for select nights and stays.
- Select Magic Keys go on sale beginning Jan. 13, 2026. See Disneyland.com/MagicKey for details.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Disney Cruise Line
Disney Adventure Sets Sail in March
Following the wildly successful launches of the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny in 2022, 2024, and 2025, respectively, and the new private island destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in 2023, the rapid expansion of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet continues in 2026 with the March 10 debut of the Disney Adventure.
Sailing three- and four-night itineraries from Singapore, the new ship will feature seven themed areas inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories and will blend some familiar Disney Cruise Line experiences with a vast array of new spaces, entertainment, and firsts for Disney Cruise Line.
Disney Imagination Garden will be the central gathering space, with restaurants Grandma Tala’s Kitchen and Mowgli’s Eatery, along with onboard retail that includes World of Disney, a first-ever dedicated Duffy & Friends shop, and a National Geographic Store.
Disney Discovery Reef will showcase underwater stories and dining options inspired by The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Lilo & Stitch, and Luca. Toy Story Place will be home to family-friendly pools and water play areas, plus dining, including Pizza Planet.
Marvel Landing, on the upper deck, will be home to brand-new rides: Ironcycle Test Run, Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever roller coaster, Pym Quantum Racers, a mini-car racing experience, and Groot Galaxy Spin, a ride to music on a Nova Corp Bass Jumper.
Wayfinder Bay, a pool area inspired by Moana, will have ocean views, plus a large screen and live shows like Moana: Call of the Sea. San Fransokyo Street is a Big Hero 6-themed zone with an arcade, cinemas, and teen and tween club access. Town Square will be themed around Disney Princesses and be home to The Walt Disney Theatre and Spellbound, a lounge inspired by Snow White’s Evil Queen.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Returns
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will return to Anaheim August 14–16, 2026, with programming once again spread across both the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center.
The event will include marquee showcases, immersive fan experiences, exclusive shopping, and extended celebrations throughout the week leading up to the event weekend, including D23 Day at Angel Stadium and D23 Day at Disneyland.
Disney Legend Jodi Benson was also named the first official FAN-bassador, a role that will see her connecting with fans and representing D23 at special appearances throughout the year. Tickets will go on sale in Spring 2026.
What’s Ahead for Disney in 2026: Major Updates Coming to Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris enters a major transition year in 2026 as Walt Disney Studios Park becomes Disney Adventure World with the debut of World of Frozen on March 29 and new areas including gardens, dining, and entertainment along Adventure Way, new family attraction Raiponce Tangled Spin, and nighttime spectacular Disney Cascade of Lights.
Resort-wide updates continue with the start of a phased refurbishment of Disney Sequoia Lodge, and ongoing updates to Disney Village’s dining and retail offerings. Attraction and queue enhancements are on the way for Ratatouille — The Adventure, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, and Thunder Mesa Riverboat Landing. Minnie’s Dream Factory also returns on February 7.
This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.
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