Heading to Disney World in May? The summer crowds are just starting to roll in, so planning ahead is key! Whether you’re wondering what to pack, how busy the parks will be, or what’s new this month, we’ve got all the details you need. Keep reading for everything to expect during your May 2026 trip to Disney World!

Disney World Events in May

May is an event-packed month at Walt Disney World! The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is still in full swing, bringing topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and vibrant gardens through early June.

Throughout the month, Disney After Hours events take place at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios, giving you the chance to enjoy the parks with lower crowds and shorter wait times if you purchase a ticket.

May also includes fan-favorite celebrations like “May the Fourth” at Hollywood Studios, a variety of youth sports competitions, and of course, Memorial Day weekend, which brings a noticeable bump in crowds as families kick off their summer vacations.

Here’s a look at what you can look forward to during your visit in May 2026:

• EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival: March 4th to June 1st, 2026
• The Summit Championship: April 30th to May 3rd, 2026
• “May The Fourth” Celebration at Hollywood Studios: May 4th, 2026
• Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom: May 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th, 2026
• Disney After Hours at EPCOT: May 21st, 2026
• The D2 Summit: May 8th to May 10th, 2026
• Disney After Hours at Hollywood Studios: May 6th, 14th, and 30th, 2026
• Special Olympics Florida Summer Games: May 15th, 2026
• Disney Memorial Day Soccer Tournament: May 23rd to May 25th, 2026
• AAU Basketball Memorial Day Classic: May 23rd to May 25th, 2026
• Memorial Day: May 25th, 2026
• Banana Ball: May 29th and May 30th, 2026

Be sure to check Disney’s theme park hours to see how/if any of these events will impact your park day plans.

May Disney World Crowds

May is often considered the calm before the summer storm when it comes to Disney World crowds—making it one of the least busy months of the summer season. However, that doesn’t mean it’s crowd-free. As schools across the U.S. begin to let out for summer break, attendance starts to pick up, especially in the second half of the month. Memorial Day Weekend is one of the busiest times to visit, and May the Fourth draws large crowds to Hollywood Studios, often making it one of the park’s most packed days of the year.

To beat the crowds, plan to arrive at the parks early and take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry if you’re staying at a Disney resort. You can also get more done by staying late, especially during extended evening hours or after-hours events. Midday is usually the busiest, so consider taking a break then and returning in the evening when crowds thin out.

Best and Worst Weeks to Visit in May 2026

May is known as a quieter month than some, but you’ll still want to be aware of the crowd levels, as it does pick up quickly.

Best weeks to visit in May:

• May 3rd – May 9th (Though Hollywood Studios will be busy on May 4th)
• May 10th – May 16th

Worst weeks to visit in May:

• May 24th – May 30th

Should You Purchase Lightning Lane Services?

If you’re visiting Disney World during busier times in May—like Memorial Day Weekend or May the Fourth at Hollywood Studios—purchasing Disney’s Lightning Lane services (Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Single Passes, and Premier Pass) can be a smart way to save time and avoid long waits.

Keep in mind that prices for these services are dynamic, so they tend to be higher when crowd levels rise—and they can sell out. If Lightning Lane access is a priority for you, be sure to set an alarm for your pre-booking window so you have the best chance of locking in the rides and times you want.

Disney World Weather in May

May marks the transition from spring to summer in Central Florida, and the weather definitely starts to heat up. Expect daily highs in the mid-80s to low 90s, with moderate humidity that increases as the month goes on. While early May tends to be more comfortable, late May often brings afternoon thunderstorms and more noticeable summer-like conditions. Rain usually comes in short bursts rather than all-day downpours, but it’s still smart to be prepared for changing weather throughout the day.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool during the warm afternoons, along with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and quick-drying socks or sandals can be a bonus on rainy days. Don’t forget to bring a compact poncho or rain jacket, especially if you’re visiting in the second half of the month when storms are more likely. A small portable fan or cooling towel can also make a big difference during hotter days in the parks. And as always, having a refillable water bottle on hand will help you stay hydrated in the Florida heat.

Disney World Water Parks in May

May is one of the best times to visit Disney’s water parks, with warmer temperatures and rising humidity making a pool day feel extra refreshing. Starting May 12th, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open throughout the summer, letting you choose between the tropical storm-tossed vibe of Typhoon Lagoon or the snowy, ski-resort-turned-water-park theme of Blizzard Beach. Both are open daily from 10AM-6PM, unless otherwise noted.

Starting May 26th, if you’re staying at a Disney World Resort hotel, don’t forget that you get free water park admission on the day of your check-in! This is a great way to kick off your vacation without needing to pay extra for a theme park ticket. It’s especially convenient for guests arriving mid-morning or early afternoon, as it gives you a relaxing and fun start to your trip while still soaking in that Disney atmosphere.

May Disney World Prices

May tends to bring higher-than-average prices for both theme park tickets and Disney Resort hotels, especially as crowds increase throughout the month. While it’s not the most expensive time of year, it’s certainly not the cheapest either—particularly around Memorial Day Weekend, when demand spikes. Lightning Lane prices also tend to rise with crowd levels, so expect to pay more for these add-ons during busier dates.

May 2026 Park Ticket Prices

Park ticket prices in May 2026 are on the higher end due to the incoming summer crowds. So, if you’re visiting during the month (especially around Memorial Day Weekend), expect to pay more per day.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay for a park ticket in May:

• Magic Kingdom: $179-$199
• EPCOT: $164-$194
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: $174-$194
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: $154-$179
• Park Hopper: $243-$267
• Park Hopper Plus: $269.50-$293.50

May 2026 Disney World Resort Hotel Prices

In May, Walt Disney World Resort hotel prices generally reflect the increasing demand as the summer season approaches. While not the highest of the year, both theme park tickets and hotel accommodations tend to be on the higher end during this month.

Here’s an overview of the average price ranges for Disney World hotels in May 2026:

• Value Resorts: Starting around $260+ per night
• Moderate Resorts: Starting around $285+ per night
• Deluxe Resorts: Starting around $500-$600+ per night

Be sure to check Disney’s website for exact pricing and availability for your travel dates.

May Deals and Discounts

While prices may be higher due to increasing summer crowds, you don’t have to pay full price for your theme park tickets and Disney Resort hotel stay if you visit Disney World in May! Disney is offering special discounts for Florida Residents, Annual Passholders, Military Members, and…well…everyone else! Here’s a look at all the ways to save:

All Guests:

• Save up to 30% on your Disney Resort hotel 5 nights or longer from May 1st to July 29th, 2026. See qualifying hotels and get more details here.
• Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass: Enjoy unlimited visits to Disney’s water parks through May 9th, 2026, for only $89 per pass. Learn more here.
• Get a specially priced 4-Day, 4-Park Ticket that’s valid for admission to one park per day starting May 26th through September 26th, 2026. Learn more about how to save here.
• Get a free dining plan for the whole family when you purchase a non-discounted 4 night/4 day or longer Walt Disney Travel Company Package that includes a room at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels and tickets with a Park Hopper option. Learn more here.

Florida Residents:

• Purchase special 3 and 4-day tickets valid through May 16th. Click here to learn more and buy.
• Save up to 35% on hotel stays at select Disney Resorts most nights from May 1st to July 29th, 2026. See qualifying hotels and get more details here.
• Pay only 50% of the down payment on a Walt Disney World Annual Pass. Learn more here.

Annual Passholders:

• Save up to 40% on hotel stays at select Disney Resorts most nights from May 1st to July 29th, 2026. See qualifying hotels and get more details here.

Military Members:

• Save on park tickets: Specially priced 4-day, 5-day, and 6-day Disney Military Salute Tickets can be purchased through December 18th, 2026. Learn more here.
• Save on rooms at select Disney Resorts from January 1st through December 18th, 2026. Learn more here.

May Refurbishments and Closures

As Disney gears up for some major future additions and enhancements, several attractions across the theme parks remain permanently closed to make way for what’s next. In addition to these long-term changes, there are also a few ongoing refurbishments at select Disney Resort hotels, which could impact your stay depending on where you’re booked. If you’re visiting in May, it’s always a good idea to check Disney’s official website or the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date closure information so you can plan accordingly.

Knowing about the closures and planning ahead can help you make the most of your vacation despite these temporary changes. Here’s the full list of closures to plan for in May 2026:

Magic Kingdom

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Reopening May 3, 2026
• Cinderella’s Castle: Currently undergoing repainting project, finishing date TBD

EPCOT

• Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along: Closed for refurbishment, opening date TBD
• Impressions de France: Closed for refurbishment, opening date TBD

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: Permanently closed, reopening under The Muppets theming May 26, 2026
• Animation Courtyard: Being reimagined into The Magic of Disney Animation and Walt Disney Studios, set to open May 26, 2026.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Dinoland: Permanently Closed
• Affection Section: Reopening May 26, 2026
• Conservation Station: Reopening May 26, 2026
• Wildlife Express Train: Reopening May 26, 2026

Disney Resorts

• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Ongoing Refurbishments: The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment as Disney redesigns the exterior and rooms. You may hear or see construction during your stay (though not between dusk and 9 AM)
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas Ongoing Refurbishments: The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment as Disney redesigns the lobby and rooms. You may hear or see construction during your stay (though not between dusk and 9 AM)
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Boat Dock: Closed April 13th to May 1st, 2026, for maintenance. Boat transportation will be suspended throughout this time
• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Meadows Swimmin Pool: Still open, though undergoing refurbishment through mid-summer 2026. Construction walls are up and seating is limited
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort Ongoing Refurbishments: The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment as Disney redesigns the lobby and rooms. You may hear or see construction during your stay (though not between dusk and 9 AM). Additionally, Bay Cove Pool and the Cove Bar are closed through early May.
• Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Ongoing Refurbishments: The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment as Disney redesigns the rooms. You may hear or see construction during your stay (though not between dusk and 9 AM)

What’s New at Disney World In May

May in Disney World brings some exciting updates, especially if you’re visiting at the end of the month! Starting May 26th at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the first phase of the old Animation Courtyard, now known as Walt Disney Studios, will be open! Here, guests will find a new stage show, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, as well as a renovated, park-like, outdoor space inspired by the iconic Burbank studio.

Disney World seems to like May 26th as a popular date, because Hollywood Studios isn’t the only park with new attractions arriving! Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Bluey’s Wild World is taking over the Conservation Station starting May 26th! Guests will find character appearances, game play, dance parties, and Jumping Junction, a new outdoor area showcasing animals native to Australia.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to reopen this month; no official date has been announced.

To learn more about what else is in store for 2026, click here!

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