Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is returning to Disney World for 2026. Learn everything about the special event and what you can expect.
If you’re thinking about a Disney World trip with kids in 2026, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is one of the biggest reasons to put summer back on the table. Officially returning after its debut last year, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is a seasonal celebration at Walt Disney World that leans heavily into what families actually need during a summer vacation: kid-friendly entertainment, opportunities to move (and burn energy), familiar characters, and meaningful savings.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is back, including Bluey’s debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Celebrate like a kid again! Learn more here.
Rather than being a single ticketed event, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER is woven into the parks and select resorts for a limited time, making it especially appealing for parents traveling with preschoolers and elementary-aged kids.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Overview
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER runs throughout the summer months and is designed to make Disney World feel more approachable for families with younger children. You won’t need to plan your day around late nights or complicated schedules. Instead, expect daytime entertainment, interactive experiences that don’t require long waits, and activities that give kids a break from traditional rides.
For parents, that translates to fewer meltdowns, more flexible touring days, and plenty of chances to slow down without sacrificing fun.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Cool KIDS’ SUMMER introduces one of the biggest kid-focused additions of the year: Bluey and Bingo. After riding the Wildlife Express Train to Conservation Station, families will find games inspired by the show, music and dancing, photo opportunities with the characters, and even educational elements focused on Australian animals.
Photo Courtesy of Disney
From a parent’s standpoint, this is a win on multiple levels. It’s air-conditioned, interactive, and familiar for kids who already love Bluey—without the pressure of a traditional character line. The experience will open on May 26, 2026, and stay beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live debuts as a new stage show aimed squarely at younger guests. Mickey and Minnie lead kids through a musical adventure to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto, complete with interactive moments and high-energy songs.
Photo Courtesy of Disney
For parents, this is a great midday reset: a structured show where kids can clap, sing, and move, while adults get a chance to sit down and recharge. This is another one that will open May 26, 2026, with plans to stay on permanently.
Magic Kingdom
Over at Magic Kingdom, Toy Story characters take over the Diamond Horseshoe for Jessie’s Roundup. This western-themed experience includes crafts, dancing, and playful audience interaction with Jessie, Woody, and friends. It’s especially helpful for parents with kids who need something hands-on and energetic that doesn’t involve another ride queue.
Photo Courtesy of Disney
Also for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, you can enjoy the return of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin – now with some updates! The ride now has upgraded ride vehicles and interactive lasers with new effects, sounds, and vibrations.
EPCOT
In EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall becomes GoofyCore. It’s a dedicated dance-and-play space led by Goofy and the Goof Troop. Activities include simple, movement-based games like Goofy Says and Balloon Bonanza. It’s ideal for kids who are overstimulated or need to move after a long walk around World Showcase.
Photo Courtesy of Disney
On May 26, 2026, families can also enjoy Soarin’ Across America, a limited-time iteration of the classic Soarin’ in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Disney Springs
At Disney Springs, enjoy a Disney Springs Dance Party! On select nights, the Marketplace will feature a dance party with songs from Descendants: Wicked Wonderland and Camp Rock 3.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER at Disney World Resort Hotels
Families staying at select Disney resorts also see added perks during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER. This includes at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside</p>
Photo by Danny Shuster
These include scheduled character visits and special family-friendly activities at the resorts themselves. This can be a game-changer for parents who plan midday breaks or full rest days away from the parks.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Special Offers Parents Should Know About
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER also lines up with some of Disney World’s most family-friendly deals of the year.
Free Nights Added to Your Stay
Select 4-night, 4-day (or longer) packages can receive two free room nights and theme park days. The offer applies to most nights from May 26 through September 15, 2026, when booked between January 6 and February 15, 2026. Parents will be happy to know this can be combined with other kid-focused offers.
Summer Hotel Discounts
Save up to 30% on select resort hotels for stays most nights from May 1 through October 4, 2026. Florida Residents may save up to 35%, and Annual Passholders up to 40%, making summer one of the more budget-friendly times to travel with kids.</p>
Free Water Park Admission on Arrival Day
Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel between May 26 and September 8, 2026, receive free admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day. With both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach operating, this gives families an easy, low-pressure way to kick off their vacation.
Free Disney Dining Plan for Kids
Parents of younger children can also take advantage of the free dining plan for kids ages 3 to 9. When adults purchase a qualifying vacation package with a dining plan, kids receive their own dining plan at no additional cost. And yes, this can be stacked with the free nights offer.
Cool KIDS’ SUMMER also lines up with some of Disney World’s most family-friendly deals of the year.
Summer Hotel Discounts
Disney is offering savings of up to 30% on select resort hotels for stays most nights from May 1 through October 4, 2026. Florida Residents may save up to 35%, and Annual Passholders up to 40%.
Free Water Park Admission on Arrival Day
Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel between May 26 and September 8, 2026, receive free admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day. With both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach operating, this gives families an easy, low-pressure way to kick off their vacation.
Drawn to Life Tickets for $25
Save BIG on Drawn to Life tickets during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER! Adults can get a child ticket for $25 with the purchase of a full-price adult ticket throughout the summer season. The special offer is available for kids ages 2 to 12, on sale April 23 through September 6 for performances from May 27 to September 20. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Disney Springs box office by mentioning the “Cool Kids” offer.
Thank you to Disney for hosting us for a preview of Cool Kids’ Summer during the Coolest Summer Ever Media Showcase.
