How to Enjoy Cool Kid Summer at Disney World
Cool Kid Summer runs from May 27 through September 1, 2025 and brings fresh, kid-friendly fun to all four theme parks for the first time. As Disney passholders, we found it a great way to try something new beyond our favorite rides.
What Cool Kid Summer Really Is
It includes DJ‑led dance parties, character meet‑and‑greet surprises, craft stations, and new stage shows all aimed at play, sparkle, and imagination with zero pressure. Disney also provides themed park maps and activity guides that highlight the best kid-friendly offerings.
Here’s what’s happening around Walt Disney World!
EPCOT: GoofyCore + Phineas & Ferb
CommuniCore Hall becomes GoofyCore, with DJ dance games like limbo and parachute play led by Goofy. Starting June 1, Phineas and Ferb return with meet‑and‑greets near EPCOT’s main entrance. Plus ride the new Test Track 3.0!
Animal Kingdom: Crafts & Explorer Badge
Over at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, kids can make pollinator-themed crafts and earn a special Wilderness Explorer badge. Later, a lively sing-along at Discovery Island celebrates animals spotted in the park through interactive music and storytelling.
Hollywood Studios: Animation Courtyard Fun & New Shows
In Animation Courtyard, kids can enjoy games, crafts, and surprise character moments, plus a DJ dance party with Mickey and Disney Junior friends. Two new indoor shows launched May 27: The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure and Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After.
Magic Kingdom: Big Top Bash, Galactic Blast & New Parade
Big Top Bash in Storybook Circus is a circus-styled dance party with Pluto, stilt walkers, jugglers, and a DJ. In Tomorrowland, Galactic Blast invites kids to dance with Stitch and craft inspired by Pixar’s Elio. A brand new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, debuts July 20 and features original floats, lighting, and characters like Mirabel and Blue Fairy.
Resort Guest Perks: Water Park Access on Check-In
One perk we especially love: if you stay at a Disney Resort hotel, you get free admission to Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon on check-in day. It’s the perfect way to cool off and let the kids run before a full park day begins.
Tips for a Smooth Cool Kid Summer Visit
- Disney is offering 50% off kids tickets (ages 3–9) for three-day or longer stays for visits between May 27 and September 20
- Bring a swimsuit or change of clothes for splash zones, because summer at Disney World is HOT.
- Hit dance parties or shows midday when they offer air conditioning and energy resets.
- For the new nighttime parade, arrive 30–45 minutes early near the start of Main Street for the best view and see the later showing if you can.
- Grab the Cool Kid Summer activity guide in the parks or app to plan ahead.
Why It Works for Pass‑Holders
Our family has done the classic rides dozens of times. Cool Kid Summer gave us fresh experiences, whether it was inspired glow-in-the-dark floats, whimsical shows, or character-led movement moments. Starting the trip with a water park visit on check‑in day also helped transition everyone into vacation mode without rushing directly into the parks.
