Last Updated on March 12, 2026 by Kimberly Stroh
If you’re planning a family vacation this year, Walt Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer is bringing an exciting lineup of new attractions, character experiences, and limited-time entertainment to Walt Disney World Resort. Running from May 26 through September 8, the seasonal celebration is packed with kid-focused fun across all four theme parks. As a mom of three, it’s giving summer memories they’ll never forget.
Along with the return of Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer, Walt Disney World has also announced new ride updates, immersive experiences, and special ticket and hotel deals to help families save on their vacation.
New Attractions and Experiences Opening in 2026
Get ready to defeat Zurg again (and fight for the highest score amongst your kids). One of the first updates arrives April 8, when Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopens in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. The updated attraction features new interactive targets, handheld blasters, enhanced lighting and sound effects, and a Star Command training bot named Buddy. Guests will even receive new Disney PhotoPass images showing their scores and ranks after completing the mission.
Beginning May 26, additional experiences will launch across multiple parks, including:
- Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT
Bluey’s Wild World Debuts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney Jr. fans will be so excited to finally meet Bluey and Bingo. One of the most anticipated additions during Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer is Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Beginning May 26, fans of the beloved animated series can meet Bluey and Bingo while playing games and dancing together. After riding the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch, families can participate in activities inspired by episodes of the show.
Kids can also explore Jumping Junction, where they can learn about animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia. This experience will remain at the park beyond the Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer celebration.
Toy Story Fun Comes to Magic Kingdom
Another highlight of Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer is a brand-new Toy Story–themed stage show at Magic Kingdom.
Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue will debut at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland as a limited-time summer experience. The lively show features Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and other Toy Story favorites performing songs, dancing, and playing interactive games with the audience. The energetic performance invites kids to join the fun rather than simply watch from their seats.
GoofyCore Dance Party at EPCOT
I love how much entertainment there is for kids at EPCOT. Two of my kids say it’s their favorite park. Now, families visiting EPCOT can join the excitement at GoofyCore, a playful party happening inside CommuniCore Hall.
The high-energy event includes DJ-led dance breaks, interactive games, and oversized playground-style activities designed to get kids moving and laughing. With music, movement, and plenty of silliness, GoofyCore captures the spirit of Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer perfectly.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Hollywood Studios
Another major addition launching May 26 is Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Inspired by the Disney Jr. series Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, the interactive show invites the whole family to join Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto for a party at the Clubhouse. The show features original songs, dancing, and audience participation that encourages kids to jump in and Mousekedance along with their favorite characters.
Cool Kids’ Summer at Disney Springs and Disney Waterparks
Summer fun continues outside the parks as well. At Disney Springs, guests visiting the Marketplace on select nights can join a lively dance party featuring music from upcoming Disney+ movies like Descendants: Wicked Wonderland and Camp Rock 3.
At the water parks, Disney characters will also make appearances throughout the summer:
- Goofy will greet guests at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
- Stitch will bring playful chaos to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
For guests looking for nighttime fun, Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Typhoon Lagoon on select nights from June 2 through September 5. The separately ticketed event allows guests to enjoy the water park after dark with glowing décor, beach dance parties, and rare character appearances like Powerline Max and Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers.
Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort For Cool Kids’ Summer
Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels will receive several special perks during Disney World Cool Kids’ Summer. One of the most popular benefits is Early Theme Park Entry, which allows resort guests to enter the parks 30 minutes before regular opening each day. Special early morning character appearances will also take place across all four theme parks, giving families more opportunities to meet their favorite Disney characters.
Guests staying at the following Disney Resort hotels will also enjoy additional kid-friendly experiences:
- Disney’s Pop Century Resort
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
These resorts will offer character visits, pajama parties with story time, and special Disney Publishing book libraries featuring stories about Disney Princesses and heroes. Plus, on select nights, a pajama party featuring story time and “create your own bedtime story” activities will wind down the evening before lights out.