Summer is almost here, and there’s A LOT lined up for Walt Disney World! Starting May 26, a wave of new offerings arrives across the parks. From Bluey’s arrival at Animal Kingdom, to a limited-time attraction overlay at EPCOT, it’s one of the biggest kickoff dates at Walt Disney World this year. We’ll even have the resort’s most intense roller coaster back online — and much earlier expected at that!
Here’s a look at what’s on the way so you can keep it all on your radar!
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Returns
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is back beginning May 26 after its debut last year. The event focuses on younger guests, but there’s plenty here for anyone who enjoys a little extra Disney fun.
Expect more characters and added activities throughout the resort. At Magic Kingdom, Toy Story friends will be meeting guests at the Diamond Horseshoe, which will transform into Jessie’s Roundup for the first time.
Over at EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall will once again transform into the GoofyCore experience. There will also be a dance party at Disney Springs, along with other pop-up entertainment across property.
Bluey Arrives at Animal Kingdom
For the first time, Bluey is coming to Walt Disney World! Bluey’s Wild World will take over Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Beginning May 26, guests can ride the Wildlife Express Train to join in on games inspired by the show, meet Bluey and Bingo, and explore animals from Australia at Jumping Junction (previously known as Affection Section).
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! Debuts
Disney’s Hollywood Studios will introduce a new stage show on May 26: Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! Inspired by Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, the entire family is invited to a party where Mickey and Minnie take you on an adventure to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto. Get ready to sing along to upbeat original songs, join in on interactive fun and dance along!
This new show will be located in the former Disney Jr. Dance Party space at the new Walt Disney Studios area.
The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard Opens
That same day also marks the opening of the reimagined Animation Courtyard — now The Walt Disney Studios — at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The outdoor courtyard area will be open May 26th for families to see and explore.
Inside, the Magic of Disney Animation returns later this summer with new experiences, including Disney Princess meet-and-greets, an indoor Alice in Wonderland-themed play space, and drawing classes featuring an Olaf animatronic.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Opens!
Also launching May 26 is the newly reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This updated version brings The Muppets back into the spotlight with their very first theme park ride, with an all-new storyline and added details to the previous Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
We knew this chaotic and comedic takeover was slated for late summer, but Disney surprised us all this week when they announced the coaster would reopen much sooner than anticipated — and also on May 26 no less. Yay!!! (Said like Kermit with a frantic wave)
One of the biggest changes comes with the addition of multiple on-ride tracks. Each ride features a different music track, offering a re-rideable experience similar to Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. With a chance of a different song playing each go, two rides will rarely be the same!
New Mission Coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
A few days earlier, on May 22, a new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu will already be in play at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Ready to take a break from capturing coaxium for Hondo? This Mando update introduces a new storyline and scenarios for guests taking the controls of the Millennium Falcon — whether that be the Pilot, Gunner, or Engineer positions.
This is the way.
Soarin’ Across America
EPCOT is getting a limited-time update to Soarin’ Around the World. Starting May 26, Soarin’ Across America will debut in honor of the country’s 250th anniversary.
The new version will highlight some of the country’s natural beauty, including the Grand Canyon, as well as iconic cityscapes, accompanied by a new orchestration of the classic Soarin’ theme.
There’s no confirmed end date for this limited-time overlay, but we can assume it’ll be at EPCOT for the next year. To prepare, Soarin’ Around the World will temporarily close on May 13, 2026.
Both Water Parks Open & FREE Access
Disney’s Blizzard Beach AND Typhoon Lagoon water parks will both operate at the same time again this summer, running from May 12 through September 8.
However, our big date of May 26 marks the return of the FREE water park perk for Disney Resort hotel guests. Visitors checking in can head to a water park at no additional cost on arrival day!
It’s Time to Get Away
Like I said, there’s A LOT going on at Walt Disney World on May 26! With added entertainment, returning perks, and new experiences across all four parks, it’s shaping up to be a busy season…
Ready to visit and see it all? There’s a good amount of resort and vacation package discounts running, with some including FREE dining packages, and 2027 vacation packages are now available with added Disney Dining Plans!
Contact our travel professionals at Dreams Unlimited Travel to get your discounted Disney summer vacation started!
