Theme Park News - December 8-14, 2025

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2026 Overview and Highlights

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts returns for 39 days in 2026, running from January 16 to February 23. This beloved event celebrates art in all forms, visual, performing, and culinary, making it a creative highlight at Walt Disney World. 

Festival Highlights: 

• Disney on Broadway Concert Series: Enjoy live Broadway performances at the America Gardens Theatre with rotating stars every two weeks. Concerts happen multiple times daily and are included with park admission. Dining packages for guaranteed seating will be available later. 

• Food Studios: Over 20 Food Studios serve up artistic and delicious dishes throughout the park, blending great flavors with an eye-catching presentation. 

• Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt: Join Figment as he hides in famous artworks around World Showcase. Purchase a map and stickers to find him and earn a special keepsake. 

• Live Artists and Performances: Watch artists create chalk art and Disney character paintings and enjoy live musical performances around the park. 

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More to Look Forward To: 

Creative staples like the Animation Academy, a paint-by-number mural, festival-exclusive merchandise, and artful photo spots will be back. New for 2026, the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game will feature family-friendly activities showcasing its beautiful artwork. 

Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, Broadway fan, or family seeking fun, this festival offers a magical dose of inspiration for everyone. 

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Aerosmith Closing for New Muppets Ride

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will officially close on March 2, 2026, with its final day of operation being March 1. This closure paves the way for the highly anticipated Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, set to open in Summer 2026. The new attraction promises a fresh and exciting experience for guests, blending the beloved Muppets characters with the thrilling roller coaster ride format. Visitors planning their trips should keep this timeline in mind as the park prepares for this exciting transformation.