Is Walt Disney World Still Worth It in 2026? Here’s What’s Changed—and What Hasn’t
Have you ever thought, “I went to Walt Disney World when I was younger. How different could it be now?” The answer to that question is VERY different. From new lands opening, favorite attractions closing, festivals, special events and promotions, Walt Disney World is ever evolving. With the evolution of rides, parks and systems to reserve ride times, guests can often feel overwhelmed, may not know where to start with the planning process, receive mixed messages in online groups and may even start to feel like with all the things, Walt Disney World is just “too much”.
This is where using a Goofy Getaways Travel Advisor can help you alleviate stress and turn the planning process from a headache into an enjoyable experience. Disney focused Travel Advisors will be able to explain Lightning Lanes to you, how to book them and how to use them throughout your trip. They will also be able to help you with park planning- which park to start with, the benefits of Park Hopping, recommendations based on guests likes and dislikes and strategies to handle the crowds.
Let’s start by looking at the things that haven’t changed.
No matter what else changes in Walt Disney World, the storytelling is one thing that will always remain at the forefront of everything- from resorts to rides to the different lands in the parks. Make sure to look all around you to see all of the details incorporated into even the smallest area.
Another thing that remains the same is the hard work and dedication from the Cast Members and their ability to bring joy to guests. They ensure that every guest feels welcomed, valued and cared for with their attention to details, positive attitudes and willingness to help.
Finally, the Disney “magic” is still very much alive and well. With the support of your Travel Advisor, your only job once you get to Walt Disney World will be to soak up the magic all around you and make the memories that last a lifetime.
Now let’s look at all of the new things and recurring events that are coming to Walt Disney World in 2026.
Available Throughout the Year
-Disney After Hours is a separately ticketed event that lets guests experience Magic Kingdom, EPCOT or Hollywood Studios after the parks close. Snacks and beverages are included.
-LEVEL99 is coming to Disney Springs West Side. It will have over 60 themed challenge rooms and other activities that are made to test the mental and physical prowess of families.
- “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away!” is Magic Kingdom’s newest nighttime parade.
-”The Little Mermaid- A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” are at Hollywood Studios
-The reimagined Test Track presented by General Motors is open at EPCOT.
-The newest 4D show, “Zootopia: Better Zoogether" is open at Animal Kingdom.
Early 2026
-In February, guests will be able to see the updated audio-animatronics on Frozen Ever After in EPCOT
-International Festival of the Arts will run from January 16- February 23 in EPCOT. Guests will be able to see artwork, taste artisanal dishes and listen to their favorite showtunes from DISNEY ON BROADWAY shows and stars. LEARN MORE ABOUT FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Spring 2026
-International Flower & Garden Festival will run from March 4- June 1 in EPCOT. Guests will be able to see topiaries and gardens, try bites at Outdoor Kitchens and enjoy live tunes during the Garden Rocks Concert Series.
-In Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen this spring featuring the new Rainbow Caverns.
-In Tomorrowland, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will reopen with updated ride vehicles, new handheld blasters and interactive targets
Summer 2026
-Cool Kids Summer is returning this year. Families will be able to dance at GoofyCore in EPCOT, play games with characters in the parks and enjoy the new and refurbished attractions this summer.
-Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is a separately ticketed event and will return for Summer 2026. Guests can groove to a DJ dance party, meet characters, splash on favorite attractions and enjoy complimentary ice cream novelties, popcorn and select beverages.
-At Conservation Station in Animal Kingdom, guests will be able to play and dance with Bluey and Bingo. Afterwards they can step outside and discover an experience with animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia.
-At Hollywood Studios, “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live” will debut. Guests will dance along with Mickey and Minnie as they head off on a road trip to find some of their best pals- Goofy, Daisy and Pluto- for the party.
-Also in Hollywood Studios, “The Magic of Disney Animation” will open and invite guests inside the world of Walt Disney Animation Studios. “Drawn to Wonderland” playground will be located in this area as well as “Off the Page” where guests can meet some of their favorite characters across six unique departments from the animation studio: story, layout, hand-drawn animation, computer animation, lighting and effects.
-On Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood Studios, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets will open.
-In Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will have an all new adventure starring The Mandalorian and Grogu.
-With 2026 being the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Walt Disney Company will commemorate the anniversary with a “Disney Celebrates America” celebration, including Soarin’Across America at EPCOT.
Fall 2026
-The International Food & Wine Festival will return in the Fall in EPCOT. Guests will be able to taste flavors from around the globe with their Festival Passport and experience Eat to the Beat concerts.
-In Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party will return this year. It is a separately ticketed event on select nights and guests can enjoy themed snacks and beverages, entertainment and character meet and greets.
Winter 2026
-In Hollywood Studios, Jollywood Nights will once again take place on select nights. It is a separately ticketed event that combines Hollywood glam and holiday cheer. Guests will enjoy themed entertainment, festive food and beverage offerings and character meet and greets.
-In Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is returning on select nights. This is a separately ticketed event that is packed with seasonal entertainment, food and special merchandise
-International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth is returning to EPCOT. Guests can hear tales from Holiday Storytellers, watch the Candlelight Processional and taste foods at Holiday Kitchens.
As with most things in life, to make room for the new things we must say goodbye to some of our favorites. This year we will be saying goodbye to DinoLand, U.S.A. to make way for the Tropical Americas in Animal Kingdom and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will be closing in the spring and will be reimagined to include the Muppets.
As you can see, Walt Disney World has many things to keep up with, such as refurbishments, festivals and special events. The best way to stay on top of everything without becoming stressed out is to work with a Disney-focused travel advisor and let them help lead you to the magic.
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