EPCOT has always been a park that thrives on change. It began as Walt Disney’s vision for a futuristic community, then evolved into a theme park that celebrates both innovation and world culture.
But the changes unfolding right now go beyond the usual updates. Disney is revamping attractions, introducing new experiences, and preparing the park for a whole new era.
By the end of 2025, EPCOT will look and feel noticeably different, and these updates will also ripple through the rest of Walt Disney World.
A Park Divided, but Evolving Together
At its core, EPCOT is a park of two halves. World Celebration, World Nature, and World Discovery house thrill rides and educational favorites, while World Showcase circles the lagoon with pavilions representing cultures from around the globe.
The current lineup already shines with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Frozen Ever After. Classic staples like Living with the Land and The Seas with Nemo & Friends still hold strong appeal. And of course, the silver geodesic sphere of Spaceship Earth continues to tower above it all.
But as impressive as EPCOT’s catalog is, Disney isn’t content to sit still.
Spaceship Earth Returns Soon
The park’s most iconic structure, Spaceship Earth, closed in August 2025 for a significant refurbishment. It’s set to reopen by the end of October, and guests can expect smoother rides and refreshed storytelling.
For decades, the attraction has taken riders on a journey through the history of communication. This update promises to polish the experience and keep it relevant for modern audiences.
Holidays Around the World
Right after Spaceship Earth reopens, EPCOT will step into one of its most anticipated annual events: the Festival of the Holidays. The celebration brings festive food booths, storytellers, and the Candlelight Processional to World Showcase.
Celebrity narrators, a full orchestra, and a giant choir combine to create one of the most moving seasonal traditions at Walt Disney World.
Test Track 3.0 Hits the Road
Another milestone of 2025 has already rolled out. Test Track reopened with its brand-new 3.0 version. Guests can still design cars and zip around the outdoor track at high speeds, but the experience now leans into EPCOT’s roots of innovation and creativity.
Updated visuals, immersive queues, and sleeker car design make it feel brand new, while still paying tribute to what came before.
A Place to Recharge: GEO-82 Lounge
Not all the changes involve thrills. In June, EPCOT introduced the GEO-82 Lounge, a sleek retreat named after the park’s opening year.
With its nods to history and modern design, the lounge has become a haven for Annual Passholders and frequent visitors who want a place to cool off and take a break from the crowds.
Changes Beyond EPCOT
EPCOT isn’t the only park transforming. Magic Kingdom debuted the Disney Starlight parade in 2025, dazzling guests with cutting-edge lighting effects. Animal Kingdom is saying goodbye to DinoLand U.S.A. and preparing for the Tropical Americas replacement.
DINOSAUR will officially close in early 2026. Meanwhile, Hollywood Studios closed Star Wars Launch Bay and Disney Junior Play & Dance in September 2025 to make way for a new Magic of Disney Animation area.
Looking Toward 2026
All of these changes underscore Disney’s commitment to reshaping its parks for the future. EPCOT, especially, is stepping into a new chapter.
With Spaceship Earth polished, Test Track reinvented, and fresh experiences like the GEO-82 Lounge, the park is ready to welcome guests into 2026 as a place that feels familiar yet excitingly new.
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