Walt Disney World Resort

Events & Festivals

2026

Your complete guide to celebrating magic throughout the year

Currently Happening

Browse Events

2026 Event Timeline

Month-by-Month Events

2026 Crowd Calendar

Expected crowd levels throughout the year. Plan your visit during less crowded periods for a more magical experience.

Low
Moderate
High
Very High

When to Book

Plan ahead with this timeline for booking dining reservations, purchasing party tickets, and securing the best experiences.

Dining Reservations
Dining reservations at Walt Disney World open 60 days in advance. Book festival dining experiences and special event meals as early as possible—popular time slots fill quickly.
Party Tickets (Spring Sales)
Ticket availability for special events like the Halloween and Christmas parties is released typically in spring. Early booking provides the best selection and pricing.
Festival Merchandise
Limited-edition merchandise sells out during peak festival days. Arrive early or check merchandise locations in advance to secure your favorite items.
Race Registrations
Marathon and half-marathon weekend registrations open in the fall for the following year. Register early as popular race distances sell out months in advance.
Lightning Lane & Skip-the-Line
Individual Lightning Lane selections can be purchased at park opening or via the app. During festival periods, arrive early to secure the best selections.
Hotel Reservations
Disney hotel reservations become available 12-18 months in advance. Book early during major events and holidays to secure your preferred resort and room type.

Pro Tips for Disney Events

1
Plan Ahead
Major events and festivals attract significant crowds. Book accommodations and dining at least 60 days in advance for the best selection and rates.
2
Download the My Disney Experience App
Use the official Disney World app to check wait times, book Lightning Lanes, make dining reservations, and stay updated on special events and entertainment schedules.
3
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Festival days involve extensive walking between outdoor kitchens, merchandise stands, and entertainment venues. Invest in quality, broken-in walking shoes.
4
Bring a Portable Charger
Festival seasons mean heavy phone usage for dining reservations, photos, and app access. A portable battery ensures your device stays charged throughout the day.
5
Check the Festival Calendar
Festivals run for extended periods with rotating entertainment and menus. Check which acts and cuisines are featured on your specific visit date to maximize your experience.
6
Follow @DisneyWorld on Social Media
Disney announces special events, limited-time offerings, and entertainment schedules on official social media channels. Follow for real-time updates and exclusive announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Continue Planning Your Visit

🏰
Park Hours
Check operating hours for each park during your planned dates.
🎭
Entertainment Guide
Discover showtimes, character appearances, and special performances.
🍽️
Dining Reservations
Browse and book restaurants across all four parks and resorts.
🎫
Park Tickets
Purchase and manage your Walt Disney World park tickets.
🏨
Resort Hotels
Explore Disney Resort properties and special packages.
✨
Special Experiences
Book character dining, VIP tours, and exclusive events.

2026 Seasonal Celebrations

Holiday decorations at Disney Festival of the Arts Special event fireworks

Related Guides

Disney World 2026: What's New