Disney's Memorial Day Mega-Drop

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World this summer, you might want to buckle up. We’ve seen big opening days before, but what’s happening on May 26, 2026, is on a whole different level. Disney is calling it the "Cool KIDS’ Summer" kickoff, but I’m calling it the Memorial Day Mega-Drop.

We aren't just getting one new show or a refreshed menu; we’re getting a massive wave of new experiences across almost every park, all on the same Tuesday. If you’re a local or a die-hard fan, this is going to be one of those "I was there" moments.

Here is the breakdown of what is dropping and how to actually tackle it without losing your mind.

Image Courtesy of Evan Wohrman

The "Big Three" Openings

The spotlight is shared between three major shifts in the parks:

1. Soarin’ Across America (EPCOT): This is the one I’m most hyped for. To celebrate the U.S. 250th anniversary, we’re saying goodbye to the "Around the World" version (at least for a while) and getting a coast-to-coast flight. We’re talking the Grand Canyon, iconic cityscapes, and—if the rumors are true—the smell of fresh apple pie or sea salt. It’s been years since we had a brand-new Soarin’ film, and doing it for the "Semiquincentennial" feels like the perfect fit for EPCOT.

   
   

2. Bluey’s Wild World (Animal Kingdom): Parents, consider this your warning. Bluey and Bingo are officially moving into Rafiki’s Planet Watch. It’s not just a meet-and-greet; it’s an interactive "play and dance" experience. You’ll have to take the Wildlife Express Train over to Conservation Station to see them. They’re even bringing Aussie-inspired games like "Keepy Uppy" into the mix. Expect that train to be packed!

   
   

3. The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard (Hollywood Studios): The old Animation Courtyard is finally getting its glow-up. The first phase opens on May 26th with Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, which is basically a massive party for the little ones. It’s a huge relief to see some life breathed back into this corner of the park.

Image Courtesy of Disney

Don't Forget the "Sneak Peek" on May 22

Technically, the Mega-Drop starts a few days early. If you’re in Hollywood Studios on May 22, that’s when the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run update goes live. The new Mando and Grogu mission is a complete game-changer because for the first time, your crew actually gets to choose where you fly. No more coaxium runs for Hondo every single time.

My Strategy for the Weekend

If you are brave enough to be there on the 26th, pick one park and stay there. Don’t try to Park Hop between Bluey and Soarin’ on day one; the transportation lines will be a nightmare.

• If you have kids: Start at Animal Kingdom. Hit the Wildlife Express Train first thing for Bluey, then head back for the new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! 4D show at the Tree of Life Theater (which also debuts that day).

  
  

• If you’re a "Big Kid" (like me): Start at EPCOT for Soarin’ Across America. It’s going to be the highest demand Lightning Lane in the park for months.

  
  

It’s going to be a wild, crowded, and incredibly fun summer. I’ll be on the ground for all of it, so keep an eye out for my full "best-to-worst" rankings once the dust settles!