Disney World is changing its operating hours for three of its parks in 2026. What does this mean for your upcoming vacation plans?
Disney World Parks Changing Operationally (Kind Of)
Picture this: you’re gliding through the streets of Magic Kingdom at 11:30 p.m., the castle illuminated against a starry sky, and hardly a soul in sight. Space Mountain? Walk-on. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train? Barely a line. Ice cream in hand, you pause to watch a rare character wandering the park—all without the usual crowds.
Disney After Hours is exactly this type of experience—a separately ticketed event designed for fans who crave a quieter, more magical visit. For 2026, Disney has brought it back bigger and better, giving guests more dates, fresh attractions, and exclusive surprises worth planning around—even if the ticket price has edged higher than last year.
What’s New for After Hours in 2026
Disney recently confirmed the return of After Hours events across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, highlighting expanded offerings for 2026.
Trying to get the most out of Disney After Hours? We’ve got you covered
Trying to get the most out of Disney After Hours? We've got you covered 🗓️ https://t.co/twr4NRyESY pic.twitter.com/8ffXwHv2lC
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) September 25, 2025
Here’s what’s new:
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Ticket Pricing: Magic Kingdom tickets range from $175–$199, Hollywood Studios $155–$189, and EPCOT $155–$179.
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Additional Attractions: EPCOT adds Test Track to its After Hours lineup, giving fans another must-ride without the wait.
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Extended Nights: EPCOT now runs an extra half-hour, 9:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m., letting guests soak in more magic.
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Event Dates: Spread across January through September, offering plenty of opportunities for guests to plan their visit.
Tickets go on sale October 9, 2025, for Disney Resort hotel guests (including Swan, Dolphin, and Shades of Green). All other guests can purchase starting October 14. Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members enjoy $30 off at EPCOT and Hollywood Studios events.
Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Night
The appeal of After Hours is simple: fewer lines and more time for your favorite attractions. Here’s how to get the most out of your visit:
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Arrive Early: Enter the park starting at 7:00 p.m. for several hours of regular access before the official event starts.
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Target Popular Rides First: TRON Lightcycle / Run, Space Mountain, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind often see wait times drop below 20 minutes at night.
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Snack Strategically: Complimentary popcorn, ice cream, and bottled drinks are included—perfect for saving money while fueling your night.
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Balance Thrills and Atmosphere: Hit big rides early, then slow down for photos, character encounters, and late-night strolls through nearly empty parks.
Hidden Hacks Only Disney Pros Know
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Late-Night Photo Ops: At Hollywood Studios, the back of Toy Story Land offers almost deserted views for perfect photos.
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Special Character Sightings: Guests report spotting rare characters like Pain and Panic at Magic Kingdom or roaming stormtroopers in Batuu.
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Secret Entertainment: EPCOT’s CommuniCore Plaza DJ dance party is a hidden gem where you can mingle with Mickey and friends without the daytime crush.
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Early Entry Advantage: Arriving at 7:00 p.m. lets you enjoy the last fireworks show crowd-free, a perk most guests miss.
Why Disney Fans Can’t Get Enough
After Hours isn’t just a ticketed event—it’s a chance to relive the magic of Disney before the parks became overwhelming. Social media buzz builds each year, with hashtags like #DisneyAfterHours trending as fans share photos of empty streets, rare character interactions, and magical nighttime rides.
For 2026, Disney leans into nostalgia while offering modern perks, making it a must-consider for fans who value experience over price. Whether it’s riding Guardians of the Galaxy back-to-back or capturing a Main Street USA photo sans crowds, After Hours delivers unmatched access and memorable moments.
Disney After Hours is ideal for guests who want exclusive access, minimal lines, and late-night magic. While not cheap, the 2026 dates, fresh attractions, and extra perks make it a compelling option for planners who want to get the most out of their Disney visit.
