Walt Disney World Resort is deep into the holiday season, and the parks are fully transformed with festive décor, specialty entertainment, and seasonal treats. From holiday projections on Cinderella Castle, themed ride overlays, and the return of seasonal after hours events, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights. EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays is also underway, complete with storytellers, holiday kitchens, and the Candlelight Processional.
Even with all the cheer, the resort continues its regular operational rhythm behind the scenes, which means a few attractions are taking brief refurbishments throughout the month. These planned closures help keep rides running smoothly during one of the busiest times of the year.
Whether you’re mapping out your must-do holiday experiences or trying to steer clear of unexpected downtime, here’s a look at what to know before your December 2025 visit!
Magic Kingdom
Even the Most Magical Place on Earth needs to do a little maintenance now and then, and this month a few classic attractions are temporarily off the lineup:
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – CLOSED
All right, you junior space rangers, listen up! Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin closed in August for updates and is set to reopen in 2026 with several enhancements. The ride will feature new interactive targets that light up when hit, upgraded ride vehicles, and handheld blasters equipped with always-on lasers in two colors, allowing us space cadets to aim and shoot more effectively.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – CLOSED
Hold onto your hats and glasses, because the wildest ride in the wilderness is taking a break. Big Thunder has been down for scheduled refurbishment since January 2025, and is expected to reopen in Spring 2026. Disney’s announcement for the new Rainbow Caverns scene has us all excited for the return, and we can’t wait to see what else is in store! Until then, Frontierland feels a little more empty…
Walt Disney World Railroad – ALTERED ROUTE
Also part of Frontierland’s ongoing construction for Piston Peak and Villains Land, the Walt Disney World Railroad is currently operating under a modified route that excludes the Frontierland station. The train now operates as a shuttle between Main Street station and Fantasyland station only. The train will remain in this “shuttle mode” for the next few years, until the new projects are complete.
EPCOT
EPCOT is clear from the December 2025 closure calendar!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Vacation Fun – Closed for Refurbishment
Vacation Fun – An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie presented in the Mickey Shorts Theater closed for refurbishment on October 20th with its reopening planned for later this year, though Disney hasn’t announced an exact date yet.
The theater is a popular air-conditioned escape during a long day at the park, so its temporary closure may affect your usual mid-day break options. Head to Walt Disney Presents for some edutainment and seasonal fun, instead!
Star Wars Launch Bay – PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Animation Courtyard is getting a makeover, complete with a revamped The Magic of Disney Animation returning to Hollywood Studios in 2026, but means we had to say goodbye to Star Wars Launch Bay, which closed for good on September 25th.
Disney Jr. Play & Dance – CLOSED
Just nearby, the Disney Jr. Play & Dance has been closed since the start of summer, and will reopen sometime in 2026.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Kali River Rapids Refurbishment
Kali River Rapids is currently closed for routine maintenance, which began October 6th and lasts through December 2025.
Going Extinct…
We still have a few months left with DINOSAUR, which permanently closes February 2nd before it transforms into a new Indiana Jones Attraction… so, ride it while you can!
Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-date info on closures, reopening dates, and showtimes during your visit. Happy travels, and happy holidays!
