Cyndal BenulloYou know you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, which means you probably have some very excited kids (and adults!) in the house. But once you’re there, what exactly do you do? One thing is for sure: you won’t want to miss Disney Cool Kid Summer, returning for 2026. Olaf isn’t the only one wishing it were summer year-round! This summer, opportunities are popping up all around Walt Disney World to get families dancing, playing, and chilling during their vacation.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect Disney Cool Kid Summer.
Table of Contents
- What is Disney Cool Kid Summer?
- When is Disney Cool Kid Summer?
- What’s New for Disney Cool Kid Summer in 2026
- How to Beat the Heat During Disney Cool Kid Summer 2026
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is Disney Cool Kid Summer?
Debuting in 2025, Cool Kid Summer is an experience within Walt Disney World, offering limited-time activities, characters, and more for kids of all ages. Guests can spend the summer season in style – and not just in the theme parks. Cool Kid Summer is taking place all over Disney World, including parks, resorts, Disney Springs, and water parks.
This event offers a variety of complimentary and paid entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, whether you’re a kid or a kid-at-heart!
When is Disney Cool Kid Summer?
Disney’s Cool Kid Summer runs from May 26, 2026 through September 8, 2026. This gives guests over three months to enjoy the summer fun.
Despite kids being out of school, summer has actually become one of the “slower” seasons at Walt Disney World in recent years, partially due to the brutal heat and humidity. However, you’ll still encounter busy times as well. The busiest weeks will be the first week of Cool Kid Summer, the week of the 4th of July, and Labor Day weekend. Weekdays will have lower crowds, as weekends attract locals in addition to the usual visitors.
What’s New and Returning for Disney Cool Kid Summer 2026
We know that Cool Kid Summer is bringing loads of extra magic to Disney World, but what exactly can you expect? Here’s everything going on during Cool Kid Summer 2026.
Disney Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station
Back off the Wildlife Express Train, things are getting wild at the Conservation Station! Bluey and Bingo are heading to Animal Kingdom this summer to bring Australian fun and even a bit of education for families.
Guests can play special games from the popular Bluey episodes, meet Bluey and Bingo, enjoy dance parties, and learn about (or maybe even see) animals native to Australia at Jumping Junction. Plus, rumor has it that Bluey and Bingo will be sticking around after Cool Kid Summer ends!
Due to its popularity, guests will need to use a virtual queue to access Bluey’s Wild World. There will not be a standby line for any Bluey activities, so be sure to plan in advance. Guests can access the virtual queue through the My Disney Experience app. Those with park reservations or date-based tickets to Disney’s Animal Kingdom can access the 7 AM virtual queue from anywhere, but you must be inside the theme park to access the 10 AM queue.
Disney Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s EPCOT
GoofyCore
Over at EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall is transforming into a Goofy party zone. Guests can join their favorite funny pal for dances, interactive games with unique twists, and a whole lot of laughs. Think crazy limbo, rainbow parachutes, and other classic playground games.
GoofyCore is a great way to keep the kids active while also enjoying a much-needed air conditioning break.
Soarin’ Across America
Additionally, the Soarin’ Around the World attraction transforms into Soarin’ Across America for a limited time, taking travelers through the country’s most beautiful cities, mountains, and landscapes to pay tribute to the country’s 250th birthday.
Disney Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!
Oh Toodles! The former Disney Junior Dance Party has transformed into a brand-new show packed with entertainment that will get the whole family moving. Guests can join Mickey and Minnie to help track down the rest of their pals with a new set of original songs and playful moments.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
The Monsters Inc. monsters may have invaded the space in Hollywood Studios previously occupied by The Muppets, but your favorite characters are sticking around! Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and friends bring their shenanigans to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster this summer.
Opening May 26, guests can race through the city with tunes like Song 2, Born To Be Wild, Love Rollercoaster, Rock! Rock!, and Walking on Sunshine.
New Missions Coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
As of May 22, 2026, the ride features a brand-new storyline in which Hondo Ohnaka sends guests on a mission to learn more about a deal going down on Tatooine. With a generous bounty as motivation, you’ll team up with Grogu and Mando onboard the Millennium Falcon.
Your journey starts with a visit to Tatooine. Then, crews get to choose their next destination- Bespin, Endor, or Coruscant. Additionally, the updates include a new role for the Engineers: communicating with and caring for Grogu.
The Magic of Disney Animation and The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard
“The Magic of Disney Animation” is taking over Star Wars: Launch Bay. Inspired by the Emmy Award-winning short film, “Once Upon A Studio,” this area is transforming into the iconic Disney Animation headquarters where families can “laugh, draw, dream, and explore.” The building will house fun, interactive animation elements, an animation drawing experience, an Alice in Wonderland-inspired indoor playground, and SIX highly-themed character meet-and-greet locations.
While that section isn’t scheduled to open until late summer, the Animation Courtyard opens May 26th. The courtyard has been reimagined into “The Walt Disney Studios,” where you’ll find Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, as well as updated buildings – and maybe even some special characters.
Disney Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue
This summer, The Diamond Horseshoe is temporarily pausing dining services to transform into a rootin’ tootin’ dance party with the beloved Toy Story characters. Guests can expect to see Jessie, Woody, Bullseye, and maybe a few surprise guests as they giddy up to songs, dances, games, and activities.
Disney Cool Kid Summer at Disney Resorts and Beyond
Disney Springs
Any Descendants or Camp Rock fans heading to Disney World this summer? If so, you’re in luck. On select nights, the Marketplace turns into a dance party featuring hits from the new original movies before they debut on Disney+.
Disney Resorts
Guests staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside can experience extra entertainment geared towards little ones.
These Cool Kid Summer resorts have scheduled visits from Mickey, Minnie, and your favorite Disney pals. They also have access to special libraries curated by Disney Publishing, allowing guests to immerse themselves in stories of princesses, heroes, and adventure. On select nights, pajama parties are even offered.
Disney sing-alongs are held around the nightly campfire as well, and you can expect extra high-energy entertainment happening poolside!
For parents, these resorts are making it even easier to bring the kids this summer by providing complimentary items during your stay, including bottle warmers, infant bathtubs, night lights, and Diaper Genies.
Disney’s Water Parks
Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are open this summer – and there’s fun to be had! For summer only, Goofy in his beach attire is at Blizzard Beach, and Stitch is greeting guests at Typhoon Lagoon.
If you’re staying at a Disney resort this summer, be sure to take advantage of the free water park admission on your check-in day.
How to Beat the Heat During Disney Cool Kid Summer 2026
There’s no doubt that summer in Central Florida is hot and humid. But there are ways to make it a bit more tolerable. Here are a few ways to survive the Florida summer.
- Pack plenty of sunscreen and reapply often
- Stay hydrated with water AND electrolytes
- Wear a hat
- Bring portable fans (for you and strollers)
- Wear light-colored and moisture-wicking clothing
- Take midday breaks at your hotel or at the pool
- Take advantage of indoor attractions
- Opt for a table service meal in the middle of the day
- Consider purchasing Lightning Lanes for shorter wait times
- Don’t forget the ponchos for those afternoon thunderstorms
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Disney Cool Kid Summer 2026?
Disney Cool Kid Summer will take place from May 26 to September 8, 2026.
Is Disney Cool Kid Summer worth it for toddlers?
Yes! Consider staying at the Cool Kid Summer resorts for entertainment specifically geared towards littles.
What is the best Disney park for kids in summer?
While all parks are great for the kids, Magic Kingdom is home to the most attractions with no height requirements.
How hot does Disney get in summer?
The average summer temperature is around 90 degrees, though humidity can make it feel warmer.
Can adults enjoy Disney Cool Kid Summer too?
Kids AND kids-at-heart can enjoy – it’s an experience for all ages!
Comments
Will you be attending Disney Cool Kid Summer? Let us know in the comments which part you are looking forward to most.
