A milestone has been reached in the transformation of what was Star Wars Launch Bay into The Magic of Disney Animation. This area is being transformed into an area inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California. The Walt Disney Animation Studios has an iconic Sorcerer Mickey hat on the front of it. Now, the recreation in Disney’s Hollywood Studios does as well.

Disney has shared that Mickey Mouse’s sorcerer hat has been installed on the front of this new experience. In a photo that was released, Imagineers can be seen looking at their work after the hat was installed. Previous concept art was shared that shows how this sorcerer’s hat fits into the larger area. The arrival of the hat is a major step in making the area look and feel like the Walt Disney Animation Studios building.

The Magic of Disney Animation

Animators have stepped away, and the magic in the Sorcerer’s Hat has come to life. With this, the characters will be coming out to play! As guests visit the building, they will get to explore the different studio departments, which will be brought to life by Disney characters. Guests will get to step into a whimsical twist on the real-life studio building that is topped with the iconic Sorcerer Hat.

Inside, guests will find areas to play, learn to draw with Olaf, meet some of their favorite Disney characters, and more!

Opening Dates

The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard in front of this hat will reopen on May 26, 2026, with The Magic of Disney Animation opening later in the summer of 2026. When it does, guests will get to see the magic of Disney come to life like never before… except perhaps in Once Upon a Studio (now on Disney+).

What do you think of this milestone for The Magic of Disney Animation? Are you excited about this new offering at Walt Disney World Resort? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!