"The Magic of Disney Animation" coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026

[Tom_E_D]

[T]his upcoming family experience, “The Magic of Disney Animation,” is getting ready to bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.

In 2026, the current home of Star Wars: Launch Bay will transform into a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences. Topping the building will be Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat (just like the real building in California!), which will cast a spell with pixie dust.

As we prepare for this transformation, Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning September 25, 2025. During this time, guests will still be able to go under the sea with Ariel in “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and enjoy the exhibits and film presentation at Walt Disney Presents.

Click link for full story: https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/dis...perience-coming-to-disneys-hollywood-studios/

 

[scrappinginontario]

I'm really excited for these changes. Many throwbacks to what once was!

We have not stepped foot in Launch Bay since it opened as it just did not interest us. We'll be adding this to our trips once it open!

 

[jwalk03]

This is a very welcome change! Sounds cool and can't wait to see it when its finished.

 

[BrianL]

It's just about time they did something with it! It looks like they are getting rid of the arch though, which I think I will miss.

 

[CarolynFH]

I'm excited to see this too. I remember touring when Mulan was being made there!

 

[mickeymom629]

While we did do the Disney Play and Dance! with my grandkids a couple of trips, they are now a little older and we won't miss this. So excited for this! Drawing with the animators is still one of my favorite things to do! I'm so glad they've had it in AK. I wonder if they will close that one...

 

[jcemom]

This looks like a great change / addition! We always loved the Animation Academy. I do hope they have a real (live) instructor. I hope the green space / trees and seating shown in the concept art make it into the final cut. It also looks like there will be a playground for young children. My kids loved the Honey I Shrunk the Kids playground and I always felt like there should have been something like that included in Toy Story Land. Plus it's nice to get something new that won't take several years to complete.

 

[sponica]

I have vague memories of going when there was still an animation studio there, and an animator did a session. I like this concept coming back to DHS, and it'll help balance out the park more fully.