Walt Disney World guests planning a January vacation may want to double-check their park schedules before heading to EPCOT.
Disney has confirmed several operating hour adjustments for January 2027, and visitors who don’t know about them could arrive earlier than necessary.
Although the changes only affect three dates, they could interfere with morning plans, particularly for families hoping to experience popular attractions before the crowds arrive.
Fortunately, Disney has already revealed which dates will be affected, giving guests plenty of time to prepare.
EPCOT Will Open an Hour Later on Select Dates
EPCOT typically welcomes regular visitors at 9 a.m., but that schedule will change on three dates in January.
Disney has confirmed that EPCOT will open at 10 a.m. on January 7, January 9, and January 10, 2027.
That means regular visitors will lose an hour of morning park time.
However, the park will still close at 9 p.m. on all three dates, allowing guests to enjoy attractions and entertainment throughout the evening.
The adjustment is connected to Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which runs from January 6 through January 10.
The annual event brings thousands of runners to Disney World for several races, including events that travel through EPCOT.
The 5K begins at 4:30 a.m. on January 7, followed by the Half Marathon at 5 a.m. on January 9.
The full Walt Disney World Marathon begins at 4:30 a.m. on January 10.
Disney must accommodate these races before allowing regular visitors into the park, resulting in the delayed openings.
Disney Resort Guests Will Also Need to Adjust Their Plans
Guests staying at eligible Disney World Resort hotels won’t escape the schedule changes.
Normally, these visitors can enter EPCOT at 8:30 a.m. through Early Theme Park Entry.
However, that benefit will begin at 9:30 a.m. on the three affected dates.
Regular admission will follow at 10 a.m.
Disney isn’t removing the benefit, but guests who typically arrive early to experience Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or Test Track will need to adjust their plans.
Anyone hoping to avoid the delayed openings can consider visiting EPCOT on January 6, January 8, or January 11, when the park is currently scheduled to open at 9 a.m.
Visitors should also prepare for possible transportation disruptions around Disney World during marathon weekend.
With thousands of runners participating, certain roads and transportation routes may experience temporary changes.
Before leaving for EPCOT, guests should check the My Disney Experience app for updated park hours.
