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Official: Disney World Changes Operations for All Guests Beginning in February

If you’re planning your next magical escape to Walt Disney World, you should know that there are always potential changes on the horizon.

Disney is known for adjusting its schedules to make the most of seasonal crowds, special events, and holiday celebrations—and these tweaks can definitely affect how you plan your day.

Nighttime view of a waterfront with a lighthouse reflecting in the water. Background features a large geodesic dome and illuminated buildings set against a dark sky. Palm trees frame the foreground.
Credit: Disney

Whether you’re someone who loves catching the sunrise over Cinderella Castle or prefers to bask in the evening glow of Spaceship Earth, knowing when the parks open and close can make or break your Disney strategy. And if you’re staying at a deluxe resort, you’ll want to pay extra attention to changes in Extended Evening Hours.

Your Guide to Walt Disney World Park Hours

Generally, Walt Disney World’s parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—open around 9:00 a.m. But Disney Resort guests can sneak in a little earlier with Early Theme Park Entry, giving you access 30 minutes before the official opening time. Imagine starting your day with a peaceful stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., or hopping on Avatar Flight of Passage before the crowds even roll in!

Crowds in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: s.yume, Flickr

And for night owls staying at deluxe resorts, Extended Evening Hours are the perfect way to enjoy top attractions with fewer people around. These special hours offer an extra two hours in the parks after closing time—ideal for snagging a ride on Space Mountain or Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure without the usual long waits.

What’s New: Extended Evening Hours and More

Disney just announced more changes to park hours that extend beyond Valentine’s Day. If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom or any other park soon, here’s what you need to know:

Magic Kingdom Adjustments:

  • February 16-17: Park closes at 10:00 p.m. (instead of 9:00 p.m.).
  • February 18-19: Opens at 8:00 a.m. with Early Entry at 7:30 a.m.; closes at 11:00 p.m. Extended Evening Hours run from 11:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
  • February 20-21: Closing time is 10:00 p.m.
  • February 22: Park stays open until 11:00 p.m.
Pirates of the Caribbean scene at Disney
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

If you’re planning to take advantage of Extended Evening Hours, keep in mind that you might be staying out later than usual—something to consider if you’re traveling with kids or have early plans the next morning.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Updates:

  • February 16-18 & February 21-22: Closes at 8:00 p.m. instead of 6:00 p.m.
  • February 19-20: Extended closing at 7:00 p.m.
  • March 23-29, 2025: Park will close at 7:00 p.m.

While Animal Kingdom doesn’t offer Extended Evening Hours, these later times let you experience the park’s nighttime magic—especially the glowing beauty of Pandora after dark.

Belle and the Beast dancing during Fantasmic! at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Updates:

  • February 16: Early Entry begins at 8:00 a.m. instead of 8:30 a.m.
  • February 14-22: Two showings of Fantasmic! at 8:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

More showtimes mean more flexibility—catch the first Fantasmic! show and head back to your resort early, or stick around for the later performance and enjoy the park after dark.

These adjustments are often tied to expected crowd levels, special events, or holidays like Valentine’s Day. With spring break around the corner, it’s likely we’ll see more schedule tweaks.

If you’re the type who plans your Disney days down to the minute (looking at you, spreadsheet enthusiasts!), these changes could impact dining reservations, Lightning Lane selections, and even your transportation options. The My Disney Experience app is your best friend here—check it often to stay updated.

More time in the parks means more memories, but don’t forget to pace yourself. Disney days can be long, and with these extended hours, a midday break might be just what you need to keep the magic going all day (and night) long!

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

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