Disney World has officially brought back all-day park-hopping in 2025, but it isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. The return of Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios is changing how guests use the perk, and for many families, it may turn park-hopping from a fun option into a necessity.
Early Closures at Hollywood Studios
Disney Jollywood Nights runs from November 8 through December 22 this year. On those party nights, Hollywood Studios closes to daytime guests at 7 p.m., with the separately ticketed event lasting until 12:30 a.m. Unless you have a Jollywood Nights ticket, you’ll be asked to leave early. For guests who expected a full evening in the park, that can feel like a letdown.
This is where park-hopping comes in. Instead of ending your night at dinner time, you can hop to another park and keep the fun going. EPCOT is the easiest choice since it’s connected to Hollywood Studios by Skyliner and boat. Magic Kingdom is another strong option if you’re willing to travel a bit farther, while Animal Kingdom usually closes earlier and isn’t ideal for late-night fun.
Park Hopper vs. Party Tickets
The financial side plays a big role in deciding which option makes sense. A Park Hopper upgrade can vary in cost, while Jollywood Nights tickets run between $159 and $199. The party offers exclusive entertainment, themed snacks, rare character meet-and-greets, and lower wait times for rides. It’s designed to feel special and justify the higher price.
But not every family wants to spend nearly $200 per person for one night. For many, the Park Hopper is the better value—it costs less and can be used across the length of your trip. Instead of paying for just one party, you gain flexibility for your entire vacation.
How This Changes Planning
Guests will need to plan their Hollywood Studios visits more carefully. Without a party ticket, it’s smart to arrive early and check off your must-do rides by mid-afternoon. Resort guests, who can enter as early as 8:30 a.m. thanks to Early Theme Park Entry, will have a clear advantage.
By evening, crowds will likely pour into EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. That means busier nighttime experiences at those parks, especially fireworks shows and dining spots. The change isn’t all bad—it gives guests a reason to explore more of Disney World in a single day—but it does shift the way people think about planning.
The Bottom Line
Disney World has rewritten the rules for park-hopping in 2025. It’s back to being an all-day perk, but events like Jollywood Nights mean it’s no longer just about maximizing fun. For many guests, it’s about salvaging your evening after Hollywood Studios closes early.
Whether you decide to splurge on a party ticket or stick with a Park Hopper, one thing is clear: Disney has changed the way evenings work, and park-hopping is more important than ever.
