Get Ready for a Month of Magic at EPCOT
If you are planning a visit to Walt Disney World this May, you might want to clear some extra space on your itinerary for EPCOT. The park is gearing up for a major seasonal shift that brings brand-new attraction overlays, exclusive perks for loyal fans, and a high-energy summer celebration that feels specifically designed for families. From the return of a fan-favorite character experience to a patriotic flight across the country, there is a lot to keep track of as we head into the summer season.
1. Soarin’ Across America Takes Flight
Beginning May 26, 2026, the iconic Soarin’ attraction is receiving a limited-time transformation. In honor of the 250th birthday of the United States, Soarin’ Across America will debut at the Land Pavilion. This new airborne adventure takes guests from sea to shining sea, showcasing the natural beauty of the nation. Disney has already confirmed that the flight will feature breathtaking footage of the Grand Canyon and several iconic cityscapes. Aviation legend Patrick Warburton even made a special appearance to announce the return of this patriotic journey. To make room for the new film, Soarin’ Around the World will temporarily close starting May 14, so make sure to get your final global flights in before then.
2. The Return of GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall
As part of the Cool Kids’ Summer event, CommuniCore Hall is transforming into the ultimate play zone starting May 26. This experience, known as GoofyCore, is a high-energy takeover featuring Goofy, the Goof Troop, and DJ Dance Pants. The space will host Goofy’s Game Machine, which is packed with interactive activities for younger guests. You can expect to see games like Balloon Bonanza, Goofy Says, and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks. It is a great way for families to escape the Florida heat while burning off some energy in a fully air-conditioned environment.
3. V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days Kick Off
Annual Passholders have a lot to look forward to starting May 1. The V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days celebration is returning, bringing a suite of exclusive perks to EPCOT. One of the biggest highlights is the reopening of the Passholder Lounge in the Morocco Pavilion at Restaurant Marrakesh. Passholders can stop by from 11 AM to 7 PM to enjoy air conditioning, complimentary snacks, and the famous Moroccan mint tea. Additionally, a new exclusive magnet featuring Woody and Buzz Lightyear will be available at the Creations Shop while supplies last. There is also a brand-new exclusive merchandise collection dropping on the first of the month, including hoodies, tees, and a new Loungefly bag.
4. Exclusive Character Meet-and-Greets
Also starting May 1 as part of the Passholder festivities, a dedicated character greeting spot will open inside the Magic Eye Theater in World Celebration. This experience is exclusive to Annual Passholders and will be open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. While Disney has not officially confirmed every character appearing, they have teased that some of Mickey’s best pals will be stopping by for photos and autographs. This is a fantastic way to meet characters with a significantly shorter wait than the standard park meet-and-greets.
5. A New Way to Visit with the Afternoon Ticket
If you are looking for a more affordable way to experience the parks, a new ticket deal is launching on May 26. The After 2 PM Ticket allows guests admission to one park per day starting in the afternoon for as low as $109 per day. This is perfect for local guests or those who want to spend their mornings at the resort pool before heading into EPCOT for the evening fireworks and dinner. This deal runs through July 29, making it a prime option for those planning a quick summer getaway.
Why These Changes Matter for Your Planning
These updates represent a significant shift in how you should approach your day at EPCOT. With Soarin’ Across America opening on May 26, expect wait times at the Land Pavilion to spike. We highly recommend utilizing Lightning Lane Multi Pass to secure a return time for this limited-run film. If you are an Annual Passholder, remember that you will still need a park reservation to enter EPCOT before 2 PM on most days, unless it is a designated Good-to-Go day.
Whether you are there for the new patriotic flight or the exclusive perks, May is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months of the year for EPCOT fans. Keep these dates in mind as you finalize your park reservations and dining plans.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.