Cool Kids’ Summer at Walt Disney World: what’s worth your time (2026)
This year, Disney is bringing back its Cool Kids’ Summer programming. Now in its second year, this promotion includes added activities at each of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. Some of the activities are worth including in your summer vacation plans, while others may not be for your family. In this quick guide, we’re sharing our suggestions to help you decide.
Cool Kids’ Summer at Disney: the basics
Walt Disney World’s Cool Kids’ Summer runs from May 26 to Sept. 8, 2026, bringing a seasonal lineup of kid-focused entertainment, character experiences, and interactive play areas across all four theme parks. Cool Kids’ Summer layers in extra daytime energy dance parties, and hands-on experiences designed especially for younger guests. It’s all included with regular park admission.
Magic Kingdom
What’s offered: Toy Story–focused interactive entertainment led by Jessie, plus refreshed Buzz Lightyear gameplay and kid-friendly pop-up fun.
Worth it? For families who love “Toy Story,” absolutely!
Magic Kingdom is clearly the centerpiece of Cool Kids’ Summer in 2026, with a noticeable shift toward Toy Story–inspired experiences ahead of “Toy Story 5.”
The biggest addition is Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue! at the Diamond Horseshoe, where families can join Jessie, Woody, and friends for a high-energy hoedown featuring singing, dancing, and interactive games. It’s designed to be participatory and flexible, so it’s easy to drop in without committing to a full show schedule.
Alongside that, the refreshed Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin adds a stronger gameplay element that younger kids can immediately connect with.
Compared to last summer’s space-heavy focus tied to “Elio,” this year feels grounded in “Toy Story.” One thing to watch: Disney has not confirmed whether Storybook Circus entertainment and activity zones will return, so for now, the emphasis appears to be centered on Jessie and Buzz as the primary anchors in the park.
EPCOT
What’s offered: Kidcot activities, fun with Goofy, and hands-on experiences
Worth it? GoofyCore is one of the best things about Disney Cool Kids’ Summer
Returning after its debut last year, GoofyCore is a wonderful indoor activity inside CommuniCore Hall. Enjoy a Goofy-themed experience with games and dancing. Play alongside Goofy with Loopy Limbo and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks. There is plenty of seating and air conditioning for a strong midday or “reset” park during the summer heat.
Photo by Dani Meyering
Families can explore Kidcot Fun Stops across World Showcase, where kids collect activity cards and engage with cast members in each country. Kidcot is offered year-round, but it’s definitely a must-do for families.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
What’s offered: A new Mickey Mouse live show debuting for summer
Worth it? Yes and no; the new Disney Jr. show is great for young families, but it will be offered year-round
Hollywood Studios introduces Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, a brand-new stage show debuting May 26 that brings Mickey, Minnie, and friends together for a high-energy, interactive adventure filled with music, dancing, and audience participation. The show invites kids to help track down Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto through playful storytelling and original songs, making it one of the most engaging options for younger guests during the day.
That said, it’s important to know this isn’t a limited-time offering tied only to Cool Kids’ Summer. The show is expected to continue beyond the summer season, so there’s no need to prioritize this park solely to catch it during this window.
photo by Christian Thompson, Disney
Last year, this section of Disney’s Hollywood Studios had hands-on activities for families to enjoy, plus a special snack cart for Cool Kids’ Summer. No word yet if these offerings will return for 2026. However, the new Magic of Disney Animation experience is opening right next to the new Disney Jr. show!
Animal Kingdom
What’s offered: A new Bluey interactive experience, plus discovery activities throughout the park
Worth it? Yes and no; the Bluey experience is great for young families, but it will be offered year-round
Disney’s Animal Kingdom gets one of the most notable additions of Cool Kids’ Summer with a new Bluey experience at Conservation Station, where kids can play and dance alongside Bluey and Bingo starting May 26. After taking the Wildlife Express Train, families can jump into games inspired by the show, snap photos with the characters, and explore animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia. It’s one of the most appealing additions for younger kids this summer.
Like the new Mickey show at Hollywood Studios, this experience is expected to continue beyond Cool Kids’ Summer, so it’s not something you need to rush to see during this specific window. Outside of Bluey, the park continues to shine with offerings like Wilderness Explorers and self-guided trails, which are great for families who want a more relaxed, exploratory day that still feels engaging.
Beyond the parks
Cool Kids’ Summer extends beyond the theme parks with extra perks and low-pressure experiences that help round out your trip. Arrival-day water park access is a great perk. And extra entertainment at Disney Springs makes it easier to build in fun without committing to a full park day.
Disney Resort hotels
What’s offered: Complimentary water park admission on arrival day plus surprise character appearances.
Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels receive complimentary water park admission on check-in day, giving families an easy way to kick off vacation. Throughout your stay, keep an eye out for surprise character appearances in resort lobbies, adding extra moments of fun.
Photo by Dani Meyering
Disney Springs
What’s offered: Family-friendly entertainment and pop-up activities in a flexible, no-ticket setting.
Disney Springs offers live entertainment and kid-friendly activities that complement the summer offerings in the parks. The highlight here is something geared toward tweens and early teens: a party featuring hits from “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland” and “Camp Rock 3.” It’s a great option for an arrival day, rest day, or afternoon outing when you want something fun without the structure of a theme park.
Also at Disney Springs, “Drawn to Life” presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney is joining the celebration at Walt Disney World Resort with a special offer just for families. Guests can purchase kids’ tickets for only $25 with the purchase of a full-price adult ticket. Inspired by more than 100 years of storytelling from Walt Disney Animation Studios, the show follows the heartfelt journey between a father and daughter through dazzling acrobatics, stunning choreography, original music, and beloved Disney characters. The limited-time offer is available for children ages 2-12 and can be purchased now through Sept. 6 for performances running May 27 through Sept. 20, subject to availability and restrictions.
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