The Magic Of Disney Animation Coming to Hollywood Studios

Goodbye Star Wars Launch Bay and Hello to the return of Disney animation at Hollywood Studios!

The Magic of Disney Animation Experience

In a surprise announcement, Disney Parks Blog just revealed that “The Magic of Disney Animation” experience is coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026. It will be replacing Star Wars Launch Bay. Mickey’s iconic Sorcerer Hat is returning to Hollywood Studios…just in a different way. The Animation building will be made to look like the Animation Building in California.

Reimagined Animation Courtyard

The current Animation Courtyard will be reimaging into “The Walt Disney Studios,” similar to those in Burbank, California. The current theater for “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure”, will be getting an external facelift to create a Hollywood Studios version of the famous Studio Theater in Burbank. The Disney Jr. show will also be getting an update. Trees will also be added for a replacing courtyard to bring some shade into the area.

Poster for the new "The Magic of Disney Animation"

Disney has reimagined the building where the animators have stepped away and the characters have come to live. You’ll see interactive portraits that come to life, similar to the short film “Once Upon A Studio”. Animation classes also are returning to Hollywood Studios. There will also be character meet and greets too!

To bring all these fantastic things to life the Animation Courtyard and Disney Jr. Play and Dance! will close on September 25^th, 2025. "The Little Mermaid - A Musical Adventure" will still be open for guests to enjoy.

Are you excited about Magic Of Disney Animation coming to Hollywood Studios?

Source/Photos: Disney Parks Blog