The Walt Disney World Resort is set for a major seasonal shift as one of its beloved water parks prepares to reopen while another closes for refurbishment.
Disney has confirmed that Typhoon Lagoon will officially reopen on May 1, just one day after Blizzard Beach closes at the end of April. This rotation between the two water parks has been in place since the pandemic, ensuring that at least one remains operational at all times.
Before Blizzard Beach closes, guests can enjoy a special 30th-anniversary celebration, featuring unique entertainment and character interactions. Disney Parks Blog teased the event.
“Just imagine a high-energy DJ spinning some toe-tapping tunes on the deck near the Polar Pub,” Disney shared. “And fun interactions with Mickey and Minnie decked out in their winter attire. There’s even going to be snowman bowling and character-themed tubes for floating down Cross Country Creek.”
To make the transition smoother, Disney has announced that H2O Glow After Hours will return to Typhoon Lagoon on select nights this summer. The Disney Water Parks Instagram account confirmed the news:
“Let’s glow! Disney H2O Glow After Hours is returning with fun for the whole family on select nights this summer. Stay tuned for more splashing details. #TyphoonLagoon #DisneyWaterParks”
H2O Glow After Hours is a separately ticketed nighttime event, featuring shorter wait times, DJ dance parties, character appearances, and complimentary snacks and beverages such as ice cream novelties, popcorn, and select drinks. While specific dates have yet to be revealed, this limited-capacity event is expected to be a hit with guests looking for an after-dark water park experience.
As Disney’s Orlando, Florida resort continues to draw millions of visitors each year, it’s also undergoing a wave of changes across its theme parks.
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Grand Avenue is closing to make way for an upcoming Monstropolis-themed expansion, while Magic Kingdom is seeing developments centered on Cars and Disney Villains. Over at Animal Kingdom, Disney has teased new experiences based on Encanto and Indiana Jones.
Even with these major projects in motion, Walt Disney World continues to deliver fan-favorite experiences, from the thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT to the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom. Guests looking to take a break from the rides and attractions can enjoy the diverse shopping and dining options at Disney Springs or cool off at the water parks.
Since the pandemic, Disney has alternated operations between Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, keeping one open at a time to accommodate seasonal maintenance and enhancements. With Blizzard Beach wrapping up its run for now, Typhoon Lagoon will take center stage for the summer season.
Blizzard Beach is scheduled to close at the end of the day on April 30, just ahead of Typhoon Lagoon’s reopening on May 1. Though some visitors may be disappointed by the temporary closure, the return of H2O Glow After Hours offers a unique way to experience the water park after dark.
Do you think both water parks should remain open at the same time? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
