2026 After Hours at Disney World
If you’re planning a 2026 Disney World vacation, here’s one of the most exciting ways to elevate your trip: the specially ticketed Disney After Hours events at Walt Disney World. These night events give you exclusive access to the parks after the park closes to regular guests — think fewer crowds, shorter lines, and an entirely different night-time vibe at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
What is After Hours?
After Hours is a separately ticketed event at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT on select nights, allowing guests to enter the park as early as 7pm without a day ticket. When the park closes to regular guests, After Hours ticket holders can remain in the park for 3 additional hours. You’ll enjoy shorter wait times, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a unique atmosphere after dark.
2026 Event Highlights & Dates
Disney has officially confirmed that After Hours will return in 2026. Here are the details to help you plan:
Magic Kingdom
Runs from 10:00 p.m.–1:00 a.m. on select nights.
January: 12, 19
February: 2, 9, 23
March: 2, 9
April: 13, 20
May: 4, 11, 18, 25
June: 1, 22, 29
July: 13, 27
Ticket price: ~$175-$199 per person (plus tax).
EPCOT
Runs from 9:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. on select evenings.
January: 22, 29
February: 19
March: 5, 12
April: 2, 9, 15, 23, 30
May: 21
June: 11, 18
July: 9
August: 6, 13
September: 16, 24
Ticket price: ~$155-$179 (plus tax).
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Most nights run 9:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m., though there are some nights that go from 10:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
Dates:
January: 14, 28
February: 4, 11, 21, 25
April: 29
May: 6, 14, 30
June: 3, 10, 17, 24
July: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
August: 5, 12, 19, 26
September: 2, 12
Ticket price: ~$155-$189 (plus tax).
Why You Should Consider After Hours Events
Shorter wait times & fewer crowds: With limited ticket holders and a smaller crowd size, you can experience popular attractions with far less waiting.
Unique nighttime ambiance: Walking through Cinderella Castle at 11 p.m., enjoying attractions under the night sky—that’s a memory-making moment unlike daytime visits.
Complimentary snacks & drinks included: Ice cream novelties, popcorn, select bottled beverages—it’s part of the package.
Extra time in the parks: You’re getting more value for your time—especially helpful if you’re squeezing a lot into a shorter vacation.
A premium experience for your budget: While the ticket adds cost, if you value the fewer crowds and premium feel, it may be well worth it.
Skip Lightning Lanes: Instead of opting for Lightning Lanes, book an After Hours event to get lower wait times in cooler temperatures.
Tips for Booking & Planning
Book early: Tickets are limited and date-specific. Book early to guarantee the dates you want.
Select your park & date wisely: If you already know your travel dates, match them with an After Hours night.
Arrive at 7 p.m. to make the most of the evening.
Use the lighter crowd time to hit headliner attractions: For example, at Hollywood Studios you might plan to ride Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run and Slinky Dog Dash when waits are much lower.
Don’t forget rest & recovery: Late nights mean heavier days—plan some downtime or a slower park morning if possible.
Stay at a Disney Resort hotel: Gives you easier logistics, earlier ticket access, and extra perks for your stay.
Is It Right For You?
If you’re the type of family or traveler who loves making the most of every hour, values fewer crowds, and doesn’t mind staying up late (or shifting your schedule), After Hours offers real value. If you’re traveling with young children who need early bedtimes or are on a strict budget, you may want to weigh the extra ticket cost against your overall vacation goals.
How Magic Me Vacations Can Help
At Magic Me Vacations, we specialize in crafting tailored Disney World trips. We’ll help you:
Choose the right resort hotel that fits your family’s style and budget
Align your travel dates with After Hours events or other special experiences
Optimize your itinerary so you make the most of your late-night event without exhausting everyone
Look for any promotions, savings or package deals available for 2026
Handle all bookings, add-ons and support, so you can focus on the fun!
If you’re dreaming of booking a 2026 Disney World vacation (and want to take advantage of these After Hours events), let’s chat. Request a quote, and we’ll start building the magical plan that fits your family, your style and your timeline. The nights at Disney are calling—let’s answer them together.
