There are a lot of things to look forward to in 2026 at the Disney Parks. Both at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort, details have been released for what will be coming in the next year. One of the new things at Walt Disney World Resort is The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Magic of Disney Animation draws inspiration from the Once Upon a Studio short and will allow guests to enter the Animation building, topped by the Sorcerer Mickey hat. This allows guests to explore a representation of the Walt Disney Animation Studios.
As guests wander the halls, they will see portraits come to life. There will be a short form for guests to enjoy, and they will also be able to learn how to draw some of their favorite characters. That won’t be the only immersive experience, though. Guests will also be able to meet some of their favorite Disney characters when they visit, play in a playground, and more.
The Drawn to Wonderland playground will allow young animators to explore and play in an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area. All of this will be inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art from Disney Legend Mary Blair.
Off the Page! is a new area where guests will be able to meet some favorite friends from Walt Disney Animation stories while also celebrating the artistry behind each frame. In this area, six unique departments from the animation come to life:
- Story
- Background & Layout
- Hand-Drawn Animation
- Computer Animation
- Lighting Effects
In each space, guests will get to meet with some of their favorite characters for some incredible photo opportunities. For example, guests might be able to meet Mulan in the Story department and pose in front of an oversized storyboard panel. Another possibility is meeting Rapunzel in the Background & Layout department in a location inspired by the classic multiplane camera. Align the camera just right, and a photo will bring layers of backgrounds and painted cells together, just like magic!
The “Off the Page!” experience is designed to help immerse fans in the craft of animation. This experience is a collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios. Dan Abraham, Walt Disney Animation Studios Director and co-director of the Once Upon a Studio short, says he can’t wait to see what guests dream up after visiting the space.
“It’s so cool because you’re waiting in line to have fun with the characters… and you’re getting to see a bit of history of the studio as well,” Abraham said. “It could very well inspire people to move our studio into the future when they [join Walt Disney Animation Studios] and carry on this legacy that has meant so much to so many people.”
The Magic of Disney Animation is set to begin welcoming guests to this new experience sometime in 2026. Are you excited about all that is coming to this area? What are you most excited about? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
