Walt Disney World Bringing Back Animation Experience to Hollywood Studios
Along with a Sorcerer Mickey hat.
Disney is doubling down on nostalgia in an attempt to bring fans back to the Walt Disney World Resort.
They just announced a new animation experience in the old animation building, and the entire Animation Courtyard will be rethemed to Disney Studios.
To top it off, they are sort of bringing back the Sorcerer Mickey hat, but not exactly like it used to be. Now it will be based off the animation building in California. Not exactly like the one that used to sit in front of the Chinese Theater, but it’s still a sorcerer’s hat.
These changes will arrive in 2026.
Once upon a time, the Star Wars Launchbay was “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
Back in the early days of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests could tour a working animation studio.
As an aspiring animator at the time, it was one of my favorite places in the world.
Now it’s returning to its animation roots as “The Magic of Disney Animation.”
“Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they’re ready to play!
Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.
The playful and interactive moments will be around every corner. You’ll see portraits come to life before your eyes just like they did in “Once Upon A Studio;” you’ll find inspiration with a short film (with a twist, of course); and you’ll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch.”
A new play area will also be added, called “Drawn to Wonderland”
It will be themed as an oversized flower garden with a Mad Tea Party playset, Tulgey Wood exploration area that is inspired by Mary Blair’s “Alice in Wonderland” concept art.
Animation Courtyard will be transformed into “The Walt Disney Studios”
The rest of the courtyard will be transformed into an area reminiscent of the actual Walt Disney Studios in Burbank.
“The Little Mermaid-A Musical Adventure” building will be made to resemble the Studio Theater.
A “soundstage” area will house a new Disney Jr. show.
To make room for the changes the Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close beginning on September 25, 2025.
During this time, Walt Disney Presents and “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will remain available to guests.
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