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Disney World Cracks Down on Influencers at Popular New Spot

There’s something magical about summer at Walt Disney World. Even before the official season begins, the parks begin to radiate with the energy of school vacations, new events, and families itching to make lifelong memories. Whether you’re a local or planning your one big trip of the year, Disney is always looking for ways to bring guests something extra.

This year, Disney has rolled out something brand new—and this one’s just for the kids.

Kids play drums at Animal Kingdom as part of Cool Kid Summer
Credit: Disney

Related: New Summer Celebration at Disney World Offers Limited-Time Events in Every Park!

As of May 27, Walt Disney World kicked off its brand-new “Cool Kid Summer” celebration, a limited-time event taking place across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. The celebration includes themed dance parties, unique character interactions, and kid-focused activities that aim to leave guests with smiles as wide as Spaceship Earth.

Among the highlights is a brand-new experience located at EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall. As part of the summer rollout, Goofy has taken over the area to launch an exclusive event dubbed GoofyCore. This playful offering features everything from DJ dance-offs to silly party games, including “Loopy Limbo” and “Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks.”

GoofyCore in CommuniCore Plaza for Cool Kid Summer at EPCOT
Credit: Disney

Related: Affordable Magic: Disney Lowers Ticket Prices for this Summer!

While Disney designed the GoofyCore experience for younger guests, it didn’t take long before the internet started buzzing—for reasons that weren’t entirely magical. A sign posted at the play area sent a loud and clear message: grown-ups need not apply.

The sign reads, “This play area is for the enjoyment of children ages 2 to 12 years old. Play equipment is for children ages 2–5.”

Online, the reactions came fast — and they were divided.

Goofy dances with young kids at EPCOT
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney World Quietly Unlocks Major Summer Perk as Both Water Parks Open Together for First Time

In recent years, Disney influencers have become a near-constant presence in the parks, capturing content for their followers and occasionally pushing the boundaries of what’s allowed. While most are respectful, some go a little too far in pursuit of the perfect post. And this time, it appears Disney decided to set a clear boundary.

Cptn Jake’s Amity Boat Tours (@ThatJakeKid91) captured the moment with a now-viral tweet:

“Gooftastic Summer makes it clear this is an influencer free zone, and I’m 100% here for that.”

Commenters were quick to chime in. Some celebrated the restriction, noting it gave kids space to play without being interrupted by ring lights or selfie sticks. Others poked fun at the influencer hustle, joking that adults would try to “borrow” children just to sneak in for a GoofyCore content shoot.

One user quipped: “Disney influencers trying to calculate how they can make a kid in time to be there the first day for content.”

Not all the commentary was snarky, though. Some fans wondered aloud whether Disney might consider reversing the idea later in the day—perhaps turning GoofyCore into an adult-only event at night.

I’m genuinely asking, not trying to argue, how many adults would want to have an adults-only GoofCore session, maybe right before park closes?

A young girl smiles in front of Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Influencer Draws Criticism for Breaking Pregnancy Safety Guidelines

Disney has not directly commented on the influencer aspect, but the placement of the sign seems to speak for itself. It’s also worth noting that Cool Kid Summer isn’t limited to GoofyCore. While certain areas, like the playground, are designated for children only, there are plenty of activities available for guests of all ages.

According to Disney, Cool Kid Summer will run through September 1, and no additional ticket is required—just regular park admission. For families with younger children, it’s a great way to add some extra magic to their summer vacation. For adults, it’s also a reminder that not every space has to be shared.

Do you think Disney made the right call by limiting this area to younger guests? Should influencers have designated access elsewhere — or are some parts of the park better left off social media entirely? Let us know what you think in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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