With 2025 in the rearview mirror, 2026 is shaping up to be an interesting year at Walt Disney World. Between expanded refurb calendars, some fresh projects on the horizon, and the hope of unannounced surprises, there’s plenty to be excited about — but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream a little bigger. So, here are three things I’d really like to see from Walt Disney World in 2026:
New Nighttime Show for Animal Kingdom
The large outdoor amphitheater located at Animal Kingdom’s Discovery River Lagoon has now been sitting unused for years (excluding that brief KiteTails window), and that fact alone makes it one of the most puzzling pieces of real estate at Walt Disney World.
Built especially for nighttime spectaculars, the theater opened in 2016 for Rivers of Light, a show centered on nature, animal spirits, and balance. The production struggled with technical issues, long downtimes, and guest reception, ultimately closing permanently in 2020.
Since then, the amphitheater has remained intact — the seating, stage infrastructure, water elements, and lighting systems are still there, quietly aging in place. In a park that traditionally closes earlier than the others and has limited nighttime entertainment, leaving a fully constructed show venue unused feels like a missed opportunity.
This massive space could support a projection- and lighting-driven production, using fountains, lanterns, or water screens. Original music and narration focused on the natural world, conservation, or animal behavior would align with the park’s core message without feeling preachy. It would restore a missing chapter of Animal Kingdom’s day-to-night transition; one that park-goers have been without for far too long.
The Return of Magic Kingdom’s Citrus Swirl
Hey, it’s not ALL about the Dole Whip. As I’ve previously discussed here, I find it silly for Disney to continually push the Little Orange Bird as a mascot for Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland or even EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival without the delicious Florida treat he’s known for representing: the Citrus Swirl. The tangy orange slush combined with sweet vanilla soft-serve is such a classic Florida offering, and was a Magic Kingdom snack staple up until the mysterious disappearances over the last few years. I’m hoping they get the ingredient or machine issues worked out so we can finally enjoy our beloved Citrus Swirl once again!
I’ll Say It… It’s Time to Rethink the Hall of Presidents
This might be controversial, but I think the Hall of Presidents has reached the end of its meaningful run. The attraction has always reflected its era, and right now, it feels less like a unifying history lesson and more like an obligation that Magic Kingdom doesn’t quite know what to do with anymore. Updates arrive sporadically, interest continues to dip, and it feels like the experience no longer carries the cultural weight it once did.
For years now, rumors have floated around about the Muppets taking over this space in some capacity, and honestly, it makes more sense than pretending this corner of Liberty Square hasn’t gone stale. The Muppets have a long-standing relationship with satirical Americana, civic humor, and educational storytelling. Just look at Muppet*Vision 3D, The Great Muppet Caper, or even Sam the Eagle himself, who practically exists to poke fun at American traditions while still celebrating them.
A Muppets-led show focused on American history could be a new form of Disney “edutainment” without losing the spirit of Liberty Square. It wouldn’t need to mock history, but it could make it more accessible and engaging for modern audiences, especially families and younger guests who currently skip the Hall of Presidents entirely.
What Would You Like?
These are just a few things I’ve dreamily requested from Walt Disney World in 2026. With my overactive imagination, along with all the closures, additions, and changes ahead at the parks, I’ve got a few more ideas to discuss another day. In the meantime, what do you think of these three selections? What would you like to see at Walt Disney World this year?
