Easter falls on April 5 this year, and Disney’s handling of the holiday looks very different than in previous years.
While the Grand Floridian appears to be skipping its traditional Easter display, the Swan and Dolphin Resort is going all out with a massive beachside celebration.
The Swan and Dolphin Easter Event at Disney
Date: Saturday, April 5
Location: White Sand Beach
Time: Egg hunts begin at 12:00 PM
What’s Included:
16,000+ Easter Eggs: Hidden across the White Sand Beach, including special Golden Eggs filled with prizes and surprises.
Two Age-Appropriate Hunts:
- Little Explorers Hunt (Ages 4 & Under) – Gentle, whimsical experience designed for youngest guests
- Grand Adventure Hunt (Ages 5-17) – Fast-paced, competitive hunt with hidden treasures
The Easter Bunny leads an official countdown to start both hunts.
Beyond the Egg Hunt
The beach transforms into an Easter festival with:
Crafts & Activities:
- Snow cones
- Easter-themed coloring bags
- Make-Your-Own Bunny Ears station
- Create a “treat mix” for the Easter Bunny
Games & Entertainment:
- Guess the Jelly Bean Count (prize opportunity)
- Water balloon toss
- Balloon artist creating themed designs
Grotto Pool Party: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. with live DJ
Easter Brunch Option: Garden Grove restaurant, April 20, 7:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. • Kids: $19.95 • Adults: $49.95
Why This Matters More This Year
The Swan and Dolphin celebration takes on added significance because Disney’s flagship Easter tradition appears to be missing.
The Grand Floridian Situation
Since 2022, the Grand Floridian has featured the “Grand Cottage” – a pastel cottage display that doubles as a treat shop with spring-inspired desserts and Easter goodies.
Located in the resort’s elegant lobby alongside elaborate chocolate Easter egg showpieces created by Disney pastry chefs, the cottage became a seasonal photo opportunity and must-see stop for monorail guests.
This Year: No Setup
Easter falls on April 5, meaning Disney would normally already be preparing the Grand Floridian lobby installation.
But there are no signs of the cottage being assembled.
The situation remains officially unclear.
Disney Construction Could Be the Reason
The Grand Floridian recently underwent major lobby refurbishments including:
- New furniture
- New carpeting
- Updated design elements
During the 2025 holiday season, the resort skipped its traditional gingerbread house due to ongoing lobby work.
If space adjustments continue, Disney may have chosen to skip the Grand Cottage installation as well.
The Pattern
Seasonal displays require:
- Extensive setup time
- Coordination with culinary teams
- Dedicated space for crowds
Even small layout changes can make large decorative structures difficult to install.
Important Disney Context
The Swan and Dolphin Resort is a Marriott property located on Disney World property, not operated by Disney directly.
This distinction matters because while it’s geographically within the Disney resort area and offers Disney perks, it maintains independent operations.
That independence allows Swan and Dolphin to create programming Disney itself may be scaling back.
Easter at Disney in 2026
Even without the Grand Cottage, Easter won’t disappear entirely from Disney World:
- Seasonal snacks across parks and hotels
- Themed cupcakes and pastries
- Special springtime character costumes
But the lack of a major Easter centerpiece at the Grand Floridian represents a noticeable shift.
What to Do
If you’re visiting Disney World for Easter 2026:
Book the Swan and Dolphin event – With 16,000 eggs, beachside activities, and entertainment, it’s the most comprehensive Easter celebration on property.
Arrive early – Both egg hunts start at noon, so get there ahead of time for good positioning.
Consider the brunch – The April 20 Garden Grove option provides another festive meal opportunity.
Bottom Line for Disney
Easter 2026 at Disney World centers on the Swan and Dolphin, not the Grand Floridian.
Whether the cottage’s absence is temporary (construction-related) or permanent remains to be seen.
For now, families wanting a full Easter experience should head to the White Sand Beach on April 5.
