Disney World May 2026 Schedule: Events, Closures & More
May marks the unofficial start of summer at Walt Disney World Resort. Memorial Day weekend has historically kicked off the season with new offerings and we’re seeing that again in 2026. Bluey! Muppets rollercoaster! Animation Courtyard! So much more! Each park has something to see including Cool Kids’ Summer additions or refurbished or refreshed favorites. The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival also continues through the end of this month. Here’s a look at more of what’s on the Disney World May 2026 schedule of events.
Must See and More at Disney World in May 2026
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom Opens May 3
It’s the wildest ride in the wilderness! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopens May 3 at Magic Kingdom after a lengthy refurbishment. Expect a new track, enhanced lighting, new effects and a refreshed Rainbow Caverns scene.
The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad height requirement has also been lowered to 38 inches. It was previously 40 inches.
Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon Starting May 22
At Hollywood Studios, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will be updated to include the iconic pair alongside the release of the new The Mandalorian and Grogu film that comes out on May 22.
Bluey at Animal Kingdom Starting May 26
The Wildlife Express Train and the Conservation Station where it leads reopen May 26 as a Bluey and Bingo meet and greet. There will also be dancing, games, and more for young audiences as this area of the park transforms to celebrate the Blue Heeler and her family. This will stay through the end of Cool Kids’ Summer on September 8, 2026.
Soarin’ Changes Course to America May 26
Soarin’ Around the World will close from May 14 to 25, reopening as Soarin’ Across America on May 26. This new film celebrates the 250th anniversary of the land of the free.
Animation Courtyard Reopens at Hollywood Studios May 26
Did you know some Disney films were partially animated at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? The park is no longer a working studio, but the magic lives on through this area of the park. The actual outdoor courtyard reopens May 26.
Located in the Animation Courtyard, the Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! The show opens May 26 too. This theater has been home to different variations of Disney Junior shows over the years.
The animation building, with a short film, drawing class, and character meet-and-greets inside, will open later this summer.
Disney World Resort Guest Free Water Park Entry Returns
This summer from May 26 through September 8, Disney resort guests can get into a water park for free on their check in day. This benefit can not be transferred to another day.
Simply show up at the water park and tap your connected Magic Band, Key to the World card, or phone to enter. Basically, however you get into the theme parks or your room. No reservations are necessary. The ticket appears in your app automatically.
Both Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon will be open this summer.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Returns August 7
Dates have been announced for the highlight of spooky season at Disney World.
2026 Halloween Party Dates
August 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
September 1, 4, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29
October 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 13, 15, 16, 18, 22, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31
Ticket prices range from $119 to $229.
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket for parties from August 7 to October 2.
Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Runs Through June 1: May Concert Lineup
The Garden Rocks Concert Series is in the America Gardens Theatre and included with regular Disney World tickets to Epcot or with the park hopper add-on.
Show times are 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm.
Performers for this month are:
- A Flock Of Seagulls May 1, 2
- Plain White T’s May 3, 4
- The M-80’s May 5, 6, 7
- Katrina, formerly of Katrina & The Waves May 8, 9 NEW
- 98 Degrees May 10, 11
- Fly Guys May 12, 13, 14 NEW
- The Spinners May 15, 16
- Josiah Queen May 17, 18 NEW
- Latin Ambition May 19, 20, 21
- Iam Tongi May 22, 23 NEW
- A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce May 24, 25
- The Hooligans May 26, 27, 28
- Queensryche May 29, 30
- Maverick City Music May 31
See more on the Epcot flower and garden festival.
Disney After Hours Event Nights in May 2026
Early in the year, Disney hosts these special late-night park takeovers that offer low waits and complimentary treats.
When shopping for tickets, make sure you’re logged into your My Disney Experience account so you see the option up top to select the view for any discounts you may be eligible for.
The ticketed event Disney After Hours takes place in the following parks this month:
Magic Kingdom
May 4 $199
May 11 $199
May 18 $189
May 25 $199
Epcot
May 21 $179
Hollywood Studios
May 6 $169
May 14 $179
May 30 $189
Park Closures and Ride Refurbishments Disney World May 2026
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World in May, remember the following:
Magic Kingdom
- Big Top Souvenirs is under refurbishment
Epcot
- Impressions de France and Beauty & the Beast Sing-Along reopen May 10
- Soarin’ Around the World is closed from May 14 to 25
- Refreshment Port is under refurbishment
Hollywood Studios
- Disney Jr. Play and Dance! opens May 26
- The animation building is under refurbishment in the Animation Courtyard
Animal Kingdom
- Dinoland has permanently closed
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