For families visiting Walt Disney World this summer, the energy felt a little different. Music filled the air, kids led dance circles, and characters popped up in ways that felt unscripted. The spotlight wasn’t on roller coasters or headline rides—it was on the children. Disney called it Cool Kid Summer, and it gave young guests a chance to take center stage.
But the fun is winding down. Disney has now confirmed that Cool Kid Summer will close this week, ending a season-long experiment that many families hoped would last longer .
Why Families Loved It
The event was designed to put kids in charge. EPCOT hosted playful games with Goofy, along with the return of Phineas and Ferb for meet-and-greets. At Animal Kingdom, kids earned a special Wilderness Explorer badge and joined in hands-on activities at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Hollywood Studios offered crafts, magic tricks, and dance parties with Disney Junior friends, while Magic Kingdom kept things lively with Pluto’s Big Top Bash and Stitch’s Tomorrowland takeover.
Instead of waiting in lines, kids were immersed in games, music, and surprises at every turn. Parents praised the event for giving their children a more relaxed way to interact with Disney magic.
Beyond the Rides
One of the most exciting aspects was the unpredictability. Stilt walkers, jugglers, and unannounced character appearances meant no two visits were the same. On top of that, Disney rolled out discounts on kids’ tickets and perks for resort guests—something that hasn’t happened often in recent years.
It was more than entertainment; it was a reminder that Disney could still feel accessible and family-focused.
The Closing Curtain
With September approaching, Disney is officially ending Cool Kid Summer. The dance parties, games, and special interactions will all disappear, leaving many families wishing the event had been permanent. Disney hasn’t announced if it will return in future summers, but guests who experienced it firsthand believe the model worked—and hope it becomes part of the parks again.
For now, the message is clear: enjoy the last few days if you can, because once the week is over, the kids-only spotlight will dim.
